Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list that helps you shop smarter by focusing on the 10 key items to add to your cart that month if your wardrobe is in need of a boost. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 11 years, I’ve spent many hours advising people on what to shop for during any given season, so you’re in good hands. Whether you’re shopping for cold weather, warm weather, a vacation, or a wedding, I’m here to offer up the most seasonally appropriate suggestions. Be sure to return at the start of each month for more.
We’re finally clawing our way out of winter, folks. The days are getting longer, and outerwear is getting lighter. Clothing-wise, though, March is kind of a weird month. One day it’s 72 degrees, and the next, it’s 42 degrees. How’s a person supposed to shop when that’s what we’re contending with? My answer is to shop for a variety of items that you can start wearing now and in future warmer months (before said items start selling out). As a bonus, all of the items I chose for this month’s edition of 10 Things to Buy will make your wardrobe look more expensive. And who doesn’t want that?
Keep scrolling to shop the pieces to prioritize this month for a smoother transition to spring.
Spring Flats
It’s time to start shedding the boots and swapping them out for spring-friendly flats as we wait for sandal season to arrive. I’m in the market for boat shoes and slipper mules.
Miu Miu
Canvas & Leather Boat Shoes
Midi Skirt
I find midi skirts to be a great option during transitional periods such as the winter-to-spring one we’re currently in. You can pair it with a cardigan and flats or sneakers and look seasonally appropriate without freezing or burning up.
J.Crew
Contrast-Hem Midi Skirt in Cotton Poplin
Aritzia
Wilfred Oracle Poplin Skirt
Flared Jeans
A fresh pair of jeans is a great March purchase, as you still have a few months left before it’s too hot to wear them anymore. Currently, I’m prioritizing trend-forward flared jeans in rich, expensive-looking washes.
FRAME
Le High Flare High-Rise Flared Jeans
MANGO
Flare Jeans Mid Rise Rinse Wash
Veronica Beard Jean
Veronica Beard Jean Beverly High Rise Skinny Flare Jeans
Lightweight Sweater
On these all-over-the-place (temperature-wise) spring days, your best bet is often a lightweight sweater. Sometimes it’s all you need, and sometimes it serves as the perfect layering piece.
Reformation
Striped Cashmere-Blend Sweater
J.Crew
Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan
Classic Sunglasses
With long, sunny days on the horizon, now is the perfect time to add a fresh pair of shades to your collection. I’m most interested in classic, flattering frames these days.
Madewell
Russell Oval Sunglasses
Ray-Ban
Classic Wayfarer 50mm Sunglasses
SAINT LAURENT EYEWEAR
Oval-Frame Gold-Tone Sunglasses
Linen Dress
The best linen dresses tend to sell out quickly, so my advice is to shop early and start wearing your new purchase as soon as the weather allows.
Posse
Alice Linen Mini Dress
Aritzia
Wilfred Barrafina Linen Dress
Reformation
Zarae Linen Dress
Raffia Bag
Like linen dresses, raffia bags are always one of the first warm-weather items to fly out of stock. You know what to do.
Saint Laurent
Le 5 à 7 Supple Small Raffia Shoulder Bag
Reformation
Simona Cylinder Bag
J.Crew
Portofino Handknotted Clutch
Button-Down Shirt
Button-down shirts are the most versatile item an expensive-looking spring wardrobe can contain. My advice is to stock up and pair them with everything from leggings to jeans to swimsuits.
Madewell
Oversize Poplin Button-Up Shirt
J.Crew
Garçon Classic Shirt in Cotton Poplin
Alex Mill
Jo Striped Shirt
Something Navy Blue
If you’re like me and have been wearing a lot of black this winter, change things up a bit by investing in some navy blue pieces. Despite being an obviously classic color, it’s a major trend this season and always looks expensive.
COS
Collared Cotton Car Jacket
J.Crew
Stratus Pants in Textured Satin
Madewell
The Handwoven Shoulder Bag
Trench Coat
I don’t know about you, but when I think of spring fashion, I think of trench coats. There are so many good ones on the market right now that you can imagine how much trouble I had narrowing it down to just three. Prepare for rich-looking outfits.
Massimo Dutti
Trench Coat With Detachable Scarf Detail
TOTEME
Signature Water Repellent Trench Coat
Reformation
Beck Linen Trench
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