Even though I work in fashion and thoughts of trends and shopping occupy a large portion of my brain, I too can get overwhelmed by which trends to spend my money on each season. I can’t buy them all, so picking and choosing among the offerings is necessary, difficult as it may be. And when I’m intrigued enough to try a trend but want to play it safe, I try to seek out pieces that are subtle, easy-to-wear takes on it.
Of all of the trends that spring and summer trends that are currently circling me, there are ten, in particular, that I think are worth trying but that I want to play it safe with (although some of these trends are inherently “safe”). (Side note: Some of these trends aren’t brand new, but they’re quickly rising in popularity this season or may be new ot you.) When I say “jumping-off” items, I mean versatile pieces that aren’t that far from the basics we all wear regularly, so you really can’t go wrong with them. I selected three pieces for each of the ten trends that fit that criteria. Keep scrolling to shop them while they’re still in stock.
Cigarette Pants
MANGO
Crop Skinny Trousers
A simple, elegant take on the trend for a very good price.
Aritzia
Wilfred Senia Pants
Given how well Aritzia does basics, I know these are going to be good.
I plan on pairing these with pastels for the entirety of spring.
Technical Jackets
Sporty & Rich
Running Woman Windbreaker
This black windbreaker from every fashion person’s favorite sporty merch brand is incredibly classic (as in, easy to wear).
This minimalist take on the trend is the perfect transitional piece.
This would honestly look good with everything from leggings to a miniskirt.
Patent Leather Flats
Bottega Veneta
Atomic Lambskin Leather Ballerina Flats
This is the shoe shape all the fashion girlies are wearing.
STUART WEITZMAN
Clem Patent-Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
As easy-to-wear as ballet flats, but far more interesting.
Jeffrey Campbell
Books Penny Loafers
You can’t go wrong with the loafer version of any trend.
Flare Jeans
This subtly-flared pair has a cool, effortless look.
Madewell
Relaxed Bootcut Jeans
Of course Madewell made the easiest-to-wear take on the flared jean trend imaginable.
FRAME
Le Easy High Waist Flare Jeans
This Frame pair gets rave reviews, and the faded black wash would be a smart addition to any denim collection.
Knee-Length Skirts
J.Crew
Gwen Lace-Trim Slip Skirt in Textured Satin
So many of our editors own this pretty slip skirt in several colors.
Nordstrom
Stretch Pencil Skirt
If it’s a knee-length pencil skirt you want, this one is pretty much flawless.
Reformation
Alena Low Waist Skirt
This ’90s-inspired skirt just needs a T-shirt, tank, or cardigan and you’re done.
Zebra Print
Jude
For FWRD Cross Sandal
These Zebra insoles are the perfect way to dip a toe into the trend.
Reformation
Carla Low Waist Skirt
Start by styling this with a simple T-shirt or sweater.
Gucci
Gucci 73 Mini Bucket Bag
I think this is going to go with more outfits than you even realize.
Butter Yellow
Banana Republic
Knit Midi Dress
Not only is this pretty draped dress comfortable—you can dress it up with heels and down with sneakers or flat sandals.
Reformation
Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans in Blonde
I’m guessing your questioning how yellow jeans are considered a “jumping-off” item but trust me—these are incredibly wearable and elevated.
Posse
Rio Linen Cropped Vest in Dusty Citron
You’ll reach for this timeless pale yellow top time and time again this spring and summer.
Bloomer Shorts
Posse
Aurelia Cotton Shorts
I own this pair and find them to be the perfect length. (For reference, I’m 5’4″.)
Sea
Adele Sportswear Bubble Shorts
I love the preppy feel of this elevated pair.
ZARA
ZW Collection Balloon Shorts
Shop your usual neutral-colored shorts for this prettier pair.
Tailored Blazers
Aritzia
Wilfred Regal Blazer
It doesn’t get more flattering than Aritzia’s cinch-waist blazer, and the color is so good for spring.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Collarless Suiting Blazer
Thanks in part to the covered buttons, this collarless blazer looks far more expensive than it is.
Helsa
Recycled Twill S Curve
Fashion people and celebrities are huge fans of this blazer. Pair it with straight-leg jeans and kitten heels for an easy “jumping-off” outfit.
Peep-Toe Shoes
Reformation
Winnie Peep Toe Heeled Mules
I already own these and have so many outfits in mind to wear them with.
Tory Burch
Pierced Peep-Toe Slingbacks
Tory Burch turned its wildly popular pierced flats into a slingback heel, and I have no notes.
Manolo Blahnik
Jadara Slide Sandals
These are a splurge, but they’re very much a timeless version of the trend and will get lots of wear over the years.
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