With all the sunny, teaser days we’ve been enjoying lately giving us glimmers of hope that spring is coming, it’s hard not to begin making a list of all the items I’m coveting for the season. You see, spring is an interesting time here in the Pacific Northwest: the sun is shining, yet you walk outside and goosebumps immediately appear. Personally, I think it’s important to find what works for you (from a layering/warmth standpoint) when it comes to incorporating a little spring into your wardrobe. I say that, in part, because there’s not a bigger fashion faux pas than someone who is visibly uncomfortable in what they’re wearing.

Now, as I’ve mentioned before, as much as I am completely obsessed with fashion, I’m not always quick to jump on the trend bandwagon. Perhaps if I lived in New York–where urbanites live and die by fast fashion–I’d feel more inclined to snatch up every trendy item in sight. Living here in Portland, however, I look for items that extend through more than one season. On that note, I will list my 5 must-haves for this Spring, a list that perhaps takes the trend level down a notch from last week’s post.

Naked Bronzer

Urban Decay Naked Bronzer

Let’s face it, we have been deprived of sunlight for many months now, and I’m already very pale as it is. I love, love, love this bronzer because it has a silkier, more matte finish to it than many other bronzers, which are so glittery and shimmery that every time I touch my hand to my face, my fingers come away with a metallic sheen. It also comes with an ultra versatile blush and highlight so that you can either mix all together or apply separately. And at a $30 price point, I think that’s getting a lot of bang for your buck!

Pastel Pants

(Pink and Yellow Pants: GAP, Mint Jeans: Madewell)
Like Erin discussed here, pastels can either be so wrong, or so, so right. I’m on the “so, so right” end of the spectrum. Just be sure to find a color that’s flattering for your skintone. While pale yellow may be fantastic for some of you, for others (referring to self) it can look like a sickly disaster. I will stick with pinks and minty colors, thank you! Mix and match the pastels either in a monochromatic way, or with basic neutral tones like grey, beige, black, or navy to look effortlessly chic!

Floral Print

(Floral Sweater and Blouse on main photo: JCrew)
Floral prints for spring, how groundbreaking, right? But, who cares!? They’re beautiful, feminine, and can take any look to the next level. I love pieces that have floral “panels” to them so that you don’t risk looking like one giant flower-power symbol, but rather a tasteful dresser, who is completely capable of mixing and matching colors and print. Try finding a floral that matches with those pastel pants you’re lusting after!

A Touch of Neon

(Both Shoes: Macys)
I have a love/hate relationship with neon. Yes, it is a trend, but I also have an inexplicable obsession with all things ’80s. I found the perfect compromise; just a little hint of neon can go a long way, and by using it in moderation you can ensure that your look reads sophisticated-with-spunk, rather than tweenie.  These shoes are just the perfect touch of neon for me–nothing over the top, but with just the right element of surprise to elevate an otherwise neutral shoe. Look for flats with neon cap toes for a similar effect.

The Goes-with-Everything Lightweight Sweater


(Margaret O’Leary Sweater)

It’s cold in Spring. Wait, I mean cold, rainy, and nasty until about July 4. Being fashionable doesn’t mean you should freeze to death for the sake of Spring clothing. Find a lovely lightweight knit sweater in a beautiful neutral or this fantastic mustardy color. Pair it with denim, over a maxi dress, cropped white denim…you name it, it’ll do the work for you. And on those extra cold days, layer it under a denim jacket for a very fresh spring look.

So those are my 5 must-haves for spring. Pretty modest in demand I think. We’d love to know what you’re dying to have for Spring and what trends you won’t set foot near? Share them in the comments if you feel so inclined!