Strategic shopping for Spring & Summer
There’s been much talk in the past year about fashion brands shifting their deliveries to align more closely with actual seasons. So theoretically, coats would hit the racks in Fall rather than mid-Summer, and swimsuits in Spring, rather the mid-Winter.
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I remember once trying to replace a Winter coat in February ahead of a last-minute business trip, only to find stores full of sundresses and shorts, with only a few sad coats left on a clearance rack. So yes, I’d welcome this shift. But I haven’t seen it happening yet.
In the meantime, I’ve learned to be opportunistic and shop ahead of the season. I’ve realized that some of my most-often-worn Summer pieces were from Resort or Pre-Spring collections, purchased in January or February. (And were often out of stock by the time I was ready to wear them…)
Pre-Spring pieces are starting to trickle in. I’ve been checking out new arrivals and keeping eyes open for the types of items I’m always looking for come Spring and warmer weather. And I spotted some nice wear-now-wear-later options too in the mix.
Lightweight Pants
A pair (or two) of lightweight trousers is one of those items that’s always on my Summer Wish List. These tick all of the boxes for me! They’re a lightweight denim fabric (undyed Organic cotton). The fit is relaxed but not baggy, and they have that subtle lantern shape that I like so much. And the placement of those front slash pockets is flattering.
I originally ordered the Regular size when they first came online, and liked them enough to consider having them shortened. But as of this week, they’re now also available in Petite and Plus, so I’ve ordered the Petite size to compare.
There’s also a straight leg 5-pocket version, if you prefer that silhouette.
Colorful Spring Tops
Striped or print tops in lightweight fabrics are something that I can always use more of. This one’s sustainably produced in a soft and lightweight cotton/Modal blend. That alternating stripe border on the neckline is a nice detail! And for every tee purchased, they plant a tree. Sizes XS-L. (The Small is a relaxed but not oversized fit on me.)
For fans of a cheerful Liberty Print, here’s a new shirt. Layer under a sweater now, wear on its own later. Available in sizes 00-24.
Here’s another option in stripes. Wear this buttoned as a shirt or tunic, or open as a lightweight topper over a tank or tee. Sizes 00-24.
Transitional season layers
This Sophie sweater blazer has been a versatile favorite for several seasons. Mine are neutrals, but I’m really tempted by this warm pink. (While not a Summer piece, it’s perfect for 6 months out of the year here, Spring and Fall.)
Relaxed but refined, this v-neck cashmere cardigan is available in several colors, sizes XX-Small to 3X. This has travel wardrobe potential… (There’s are matching shells, too…)
Just love this cute plaid raincoat! It’s laminated cotton, so light enough for Spring…
Paris-inspired, L.A. made…
French Kande just released a new limited collection in their FK Petite line, and I love it all! If you prefer your jewelry on the more delicate side, you’ll want to take a look at these. Here are a few of my favorites:
triple charm necklace: gold | silver
pendant necklace: gold | silver
lariat necklace: gold | silver
earrings: gold | silver
These necklaces can be worn alone, or look amazing layered up. All French Kande pieces are made to order in Los Angeles by California artisans. I can vouch for the excellent quality!
Do you shop ahead of the season, or wait until you’re ready to wear it?
Oh Susan I get what you are saying and although tempting I cannot justify the price of these pieces when I know that shortly they will probably go on sale. Having just scored four 100%cashmere tops from Bloomingdales at a savings of over 842.00(!) Total including taxes and border fees 230.00CDN. These were not impulse buys I had been yearning for all four for months…but I refuse to pay SRP on anything. BTW three of the tops are four season based on colour and weight and a beautiful cashmere travel wrap ( 70%off) although it is black will work on cool nights/ air conditioned rooms in the summer months. I am quoting in CDN $ so the savings would be greater for American $. I just saw a striped ‘ lemon sweater’ very similar to the one you have although cotton for 34.00 on Zulily. It was by Joules which is a British company and well made.
Places like Zulily and Poshmark have summer items in now at discounted prices. While one has to sort through items and spend some time searching very,very good buys are out there in time for the spring/summer without paying full retail. I save my full retail shopping $ for smaller local boutiques/locally made items/locally based tailor
Plain simple v neck, front button in a wonderful cashmere. Now there’s a basic worth investing in. I do buy ahead of season because clearance left overs are usually not the color I want and hard to find my size. Usually what’s left is way too small or to big. I’d rather pay a bit more, be ahead of the trend and get what I want. I just bought my husband some shorts for summer but I also bought a couple of fleece lined sweats for me on clearance so I guess I play both ends.
That rose Sophie sweater blazer would look wonderful on you.
I’ve realized something about layering — I usually prefer to have the strongest color on the outer layer. What do you think?
I’ve gone down the Seasonal Color Pallet rabbit hole again and realized that I have, and feel comfortable in, clothes from almost every season. Since I am almost always layered (The Queen of Cardigans), I can usually offset an “off” color with one that is in my comfort zone. As long as I avoid dusty and milky shades, I’m good to go.
I bought a long white button up shirt (similar to the stripe) at the end of the season last year. I haven’t worn it yet.
Where is the blue & white v neck chevron stripe tee from?
It would look great on me. Just need to know where to purchase it?? When I click on it, it will not go to the website
Author
Hi Jolly, if it’s the tee from the “latest finds” section of my email, it’s this one: https://bit.ly/3pp4AbF
I like a lot of the J Crew basic sweaters (color, style) but so many of them are cropped — much too short for someone at 5’8″ who doesn’t want to show belly with arms raised…
Hi Love the green striped sweater. Can’t link to the brand from your post, though. Can you tell me who makes it? Thanks!!!
Author
Hi Bee, I’m not sure which item you’re referring to…is it the green striped blouse?
sorry yes it is the striped blouse. Thanks,
I’d be delighted if current-season clothes became more available from mid- to high-end retailers and not just Target (much as I love some Target basics). I do often buy clothes in advance of the season, but also have picked up many great pieces on sale at season’s end and then put them away for 6 months or so. Of course, that works best with more classic rather than trendy styles. The struggle right now for many of us who are still working remotely is to figure out what we’ll need when we eventually go back to work when we don’t even know when that will happen! I got some wonderful office-appropriate summer items from Boden last spring and never had a chance to wear them – I hope I will be able to this year.
I adore that J. Crew Liberty shirt. Luckily, I can sew, and have a stash of Liberty prints from the last trip to London. I love this blog as much for the sewing ideas as for the shopping links!
sorry yes it is the striped blouse. Thanks,
Author
Here’s the link to the blouse: https://bit.ly/3t2lmPQ
I like the pink sweater with the green pants.
My home office is chilly so I can imagine wearing such a light sweater until it gets warm.
I’d have to try those undyed pants on before springing for them. It’s not a rule that pants that fit just like I want are expensive, but I have found that if I get pants with perfect fit I wear them enough to make me forget what I paid for them. I’m always in search of pants that approximate the baggy pants I used to buy at the army surplus when I was 19.
Thanks for the sale tip for Aquatalia. I was able to snag the Floella patent leather booties at a super price. I’ve ordered from them before and have been very satisfied.
I’m glad that you are adding some new vendors to your list and at different price levels. We all have our budgets to follow but I would spend more for quality and buy less. I also LOVE sales on items that I have budgeted for, who doesn’t?