Now back to those new quiet luxury staples: None are as classically cool as the driving loafer right now. We have Miu Miu and Tod’s to thank, of course, but newcomers on the scene include suede stunners from M.Gemi and Mango, plus The Row’s luxe leather version. Then, there are those aforementioned ladylike jackets, which have officially surpassed the timeless trench coat as the ultimate piece of transitional outerwear. Opt for Veronica Beard’s two-toned take or Mango’s classic black choice, which comes adorned with a row of glittering gold buttons. Styling-wise, pair yours with a 1950s-inspired flared midi skirt from the likes of Zara to Bottega Veneta. Other crucial It items in the mix include crisp shirting, perfect for layering underneath lightweight knitwear, to sleek pairs of tailored trousers.
Drum roll for the finale please: No ladylike look is complete without The Row’s Margaux top-handle bag—if you can’t find one in stock, equally coveted options can be had from Tory Burch and Prada. They’re a future heirloom in the making, after all. For more prim and proper accessories, there are simple belts, dainty jewels, and silky neck scarves. Below, 11 forever-chic ways to master ladylike dressing for spring.
Ladylike Jackets
Earlier this season, we predicted that ladylike jackets were set to dominate our spring shopping carts–and boy were we right! There are options in classic black, of course, like those from Mango and Nili Lotan, but there also are cropped jackets in ivory from Another Tomorrow and Veronica Beard, which are especially fitting for spring’s much-anticipated arrival. Meanwhile, Anine Bing’s leather version offers up a fresh yet still charming feel.
Prim and Proper Midiskirts
We have Bottega Veneta to thank for bringing the 1950s-inspired midi skirt back into the picture. Others like it include Zara’s slate gray style and pleated picks from Aritzia and Veronica Beard. For a slightly more updated version, there is J.Crew’s faux-leather midi skirt in navy or Mango’s off-white paneled midi.
Driving Loafers
The unexpected loafer trend taking the street style scene (and our shopping carts) by storm, you ask? It’s none other than the driving loafer. You can never go wrong with Tod’s traditional take, however, those from Mango, Zara, and The Row are It-girl approved. One thing’s for sure: You’ll soon be stepping into spring in total style.
Lightweight Yet Luxurious Knitwear
No capsule wardrobe is complete without a roster of lightweight yet luxurious knitwear–and ladylike dressing is no different. Chic cashmere sweaters, like those from Arch4 and Everlane are minimalist must-haves, while Jaquemus’ scarf-adorned sweater and The Row’s dainty delight are perfect for the fashion girl making her way down Madison Avenue.
Crisp Shirting
Fashion’s favorite layering essential? An ultra-crisp button-up shirt. Opt for striped styles from Brunello Cucinelli, Everlane or T by Alexander Wang’s menswear-inspired bright blue button-up. Black and white shirts from The Frankie Shop and Cos are closet classics, while Interior’s statement red shirt the ultimate outfit topper.
Tailored Trousers
Nothing says polished perfection quite like a tailored trouser. Fit for spring, Everlane’s off-white pant is cheery as it is charming; and same goes for Etro’s checkered khaki choice. Then, there are neutral styles from Theory, Loulou Studio, and Zara that whisper ‘chic’ no matter the season.
Barely-There Pumps
Give your ladylike look instant polish with a minimalist, barely-there pump. Prada’s futuristic mules are perfect for the evening, while Manolo Blahnik’s animal-print slingbacks offer some welcome edge. Off-white options from Jil Sander and M.Gemi are sure to spring your wardrobe forward, while Cos’ little-black-heels have everlasting closet appeal.
Heirloom in the Making Top-Handle Bags
Looking for a hero handbag to invest in? One to pass down to your newborn as an heirloom? The Row’s Margaux top-handle bag is a contemporary classic for a reason–capacious, expertly crafted, and for those in the know, as instantly recognizable as a Birkin. Others just as good include those from Savette and Prada to Nothing Written and Tory Burch.
Elegant Belts
An understated yet elegant leather belt is key to pull a look together. Go modern with Zara’s rope belt, Tom Ford’s gold-bar belt, or Toteme’s skinny waist belt. For something true-to-the classics, options from The Row, Cos, and Anderson’s won’t disappoint.
Finishing Touches
Dainty jewels, like a pair of Dorsey drop earrings or Sophie Bille Brahe’s pearl necklace, are sure to dazzle all day (and night) long. And for the ultimate sign of luxury, opt for Cartier’s tank watch, which comes adorned with the brand’s signature elegant alligator band.
Silk Neck Scarves
A small neck scarf is one of those versatile wardrobe essentials that is forever stylish. Wear yours around your neck, in your hair, or tied-up as a bag charm and expect sartorial success each and every time.