If you know me well you know I love the basics. I’m not the kind of person who wears sweatpants most days and then morphs into a glamorous fashionista on special occasions. Though the past year was an anomaly- I may or may not have spent half of each day in workout gear, I promise that eventually I did get dressed. I pride myself on not being the trendiest or the most high fashion but always without fail, being pretty well-dressed. I even have a couple of paper superlative certificates from my former workplaces that say so.

I like consistency and structure (blame it on my military upbringing) but for me the best way to always look my best is to have a wardrobe that works for me. A working wardrobe is made up of quality basics that pair easily with other things in your wardrobe. You don’t have to spend a lot on these items but I am a quality over quantity girl because I like pieces that last. I’m going to link some of my favorites here but you can certainly find these items wherever you typically shop. 

A blazer– spring is the perfect time to ditch the coats in most climates but I love wearing a blazer when the temps are still a little cooler. Right now oversized blazers are trending (oh and shoulder pads are back) and they’re certainly fun to wear. I like this one. But you know I’m a classic staples girl so this is the one I picked. I got it in white because I’m so ready for warmer weather that I’m channeling it.

The shift dress– I love dresses and this one is the most perfect in my book (I’m wearing it in the floral print above). The shift dress stands the test of time. It looks good with the aforementioned blazer, a cardigan, or on its own. I also think it looks great on any body top and is the kind of dress you reach for for an effortlessly chic look.

Denim– the only thing I love more than the perfect dress is a great-fitting pair of denim. I personally think you can wear a great pair of jeans almost anywhere. And while skinny jeans may be out according to millennials, these straight legs are pretty nice and if you’re looking to splurge I’d recommend these flares.

Floral blouse– nothing says spring like florals and a blouse like this can be worn with jeans, pants, or your favorites skirt. It’s a simple easy way to dress up a look while still feeling super comfortable. Here’s the one I have but I like this one too.

Stripped tee– I love a nod to the nautical and who doesn’t love a Parisian staple? The striped tee checks both boxes. Another item that you can wear more casually or throw a blazer over and add trousers for a more dressy look. I love this tunic and this tee.

The high rise pant– thank goodness the low rise trend has left the building. I can’t say I’m sad to see it go. I’m tired of the shimmy. You know the little dance we do to pull them up to an acceptable height so we aren’t flashing all our friends. But what I really love is that high rise pants define the waist- which is a look I love, and help to elongate -which is a look I prefer as a petite person. I love these as they’re dressy enough for heels but look good with flats too.

The cardigan– this is another piece that literally goes with anything. You’ve probably been donning one of these since childhood, and yep, it still works. I love a long cardigan for fall and a shorter one for spring, it’s the kind of thing you can wear as an extra layer and easily toss into your tote on a warm spring day.

Speaking of totes- that brings me to my last item. The tote is the perfect bag for spring. Whether you’re shopping at the local convenience store or visiting your florist. Being able to toss a few items (or a spring bouquet) into your tote screams spring! Okay, maybe it doesn’t scream but it does say “I’m traveling light and chic and I’m prepared for anything!” Here are some of my favorites. This one is vegan but almost always sold out but if you sign up for the updates you’ll get notified of restocks. They sell out in minutes so be ready. And this one is a higher end but you’ll have it forever. If you’re looking for something more economical and easier to snag, I also love this bag.

So these are my must have items for spring. I would love to hear what you love for spring wardrobe staples too.

Until next post,

xo Tonya Parker

As usual you can shop my look here.