Nancy's Style File: Top Five Spring Must Haves

March 2016

Hello Dear Readers!

It's that time of year again! Spring fever is about to descend upon us and everyone I know is hungry for it.

In all the many fashion magazines and blogs I've read this month inevitably they include a list of "Must Haves For Spring". I don't agree with all the picks as in the fringed jeans below (really?) WILD!

So, I came up with my own list. Each item I've chosen is on a national style editor's list somewhere, of this I am certain. I've stayed with mostly classics, but an updated contemporary version.

For example, a spring/summer jacket is my #1 Must Have. I just ordered mine. I was hoping to win one from White House Black Market Sweepstakes contest, but so far I've not been notified (sigh). However, I did get a good deal with 30% off full price. It comes in yellow, white and dark denim. I bought the denim. Say hello to the trophy jacket!

www.whbm.com

I'll wear it with tan chinos, or a stripe skirt or my new white "mom jeans" which are
my # 2 Must Have from JCrew.

Bet some of you

are thinking . . . Whaaat?

Since when are mom jeans ok?

Well, please don't get all sweaty . . .

What the fashion world is calling "Mom Jeans" are not really the same as the jeans some of us wore oh-so-many years ago. You know the ones I'm referring to. . . those old jeans that are still in some closets I've seen? (Mum's the word. I am nothing if not discreet.)

The big difference is this: what we wear now are either medium or low rise jeans and sit at the high hip or lower. The modern 2016 jeans, on the other hand, have a high-rise fit (sits at the natural waistline). Personally, I prefer the high waisted jeans.

For me, they are more comfortable,

more flattering and they lengthen the leg quite nicely giving the appearance of greater height and lesser girth. Gotta love that.

Plus, they are the latest style (along with wide leg or flares) which of course, is what I like as well. Doesn't everyone?

See a nice selection at

www.jcrew.com

And now for the other three Must Haves on my list with just a brief word about each:

#3

A fresh new shirt or blouse in a gingham check or a stripe pattern is bound to be a mood lifter.

#4

A classic trench coat for the in-between weather we always have for at least a couple of months.

#5

New shoes are probably the most important of all if one wants to be included on the best dressed list this season. As my sainted mother used to say " Honey, you are killing your outfit with those shoes!" Please note, there is not a high heel in the bunch, there is a shoe for every occasion, and they are all from JCrew. (Meaning, all are reasonably priced.)

For running around town doing errands,

these please instead of New Balance gym shoes?

Thank you.

Love these for more dressy occasions of which I have very few but still hopeful.

And a word of caution to those with wider ankles or shorter legs . . .

The ankle strap is not for you. There I said it. So sorry.

So, my friends, take a good look at those shoes and jackets and tops and coats in your closet. Are you ready to replace them with something more contemporary? Call me for help if you can't decide.

708-579-1016

I'll decide for you and leave you guilt free. I am the ultimate Determinator. Arnold, hear me roar!

Happy Spring Shopping!

Nancy

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