I try a lot of things for my job, and not everything earns a permanent spot in my closet. Most new arrivals land on one of the two rolling racks in my bedroom while I test them out, whether that means a try-on session, styling them for photo shoots, or sometimes even wearing them for a day to see how they feel and hold up to real life. A surprising number of things never make it past those racks.
My goal is to keep my actual closet pretty pared down and curated to the pieces I truly love and want to wear on repeat, so now that I’m home from traveling for a bit and spring weather is finally here to stay, I thought it would be fun to round up the pieces I’m loving most right now. I may even turn this into a monthly series if you enjoy it.
After a lot of try-ons, travel, and testing new pieces lately, these are the items that rose to the top — the ones I kept wearing, repacking, and coming back to again and again. This isn’t everything in my closet by any stretch, but these are the pieces that stand out for their cost-per-wear value, and items I would immediately repurchase if I lost them. They’ve earned a place in my spring wardrobe because they’re comfortable, flattering, versatile, and genuinely work for my real life.
Current Denim Favorites
Let’s kick things off with my favorite clothing category—denim! As much as I’ve tried to branch out into non-denim pants, there really isn’t a single pair I’ve worn enough or loved enough to include in this post. At the end of the day, I’m just a denim girl through and through.
That doesn’t mean I regret all of my non-denim pant purchases. I do have a few pairs I’ve kept in my closet and wear occasionally, but when I think about the pants I truly love, the ones I’d immediately replace if I lost or stained them, they’re all denim.
Madewell Jules in Atlin Wash
Madewell Jules (29) // Caslon quarter zip (S) // Dolce Vita Sariya Sneakers (8.5) // Quince woven satchel // Velvet Zoella sweater – 40% off (M) // Steve Madden Lucia Mary Janes – 40% off (8.5)
No one is more surprised than I am to be kicking off this list with a pair of non-premium denim jeans — and a mid-rise pair at that! But the Madewell Jules are probably my most-worn jeans this spring.
They aren’t as soft as some of my other favorites, but they have a nice amount of stretch, hold their shape well, and hit that perfect slim straight silhouette in a versatile medium faded wash. The 27 1/2″ inseam hits me right at the ankle, so they pair perfectly with all my low-profile sneakers, Mary Jane flats, and sandals.
PAIGE Anessa
(also at Nordstrom, Saks and EVEREVE)
PAIGE Anessa (29) // Vince cable sweater (M) // similar belt // Veronica Beard flats (8.5) // PAIGE Anessa Twisted c/o (30) // similar brown tank // Quince linen jacket (M) // TKEES flip flops c/o (8) // belt (M/L) // woven belt bag
The PAIGE Anessa has officially become my favorite wide-leg jean silhouette. I loved the ankle-length version for years, and then during last year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I added a full-length pair that quickly became my go-to. They’re super soft and stretchy, with a flattering high rise and the perfect length for wearing with flats, which makes them such a good travel jean when I want a trendier silhouette.
I wore them all over Scotland and London last fall, and this spring I added the twisted outseam version and brought those on both Florida trips because they’re lightweight and have such a good casual, beachy vibe. They look great with everything from pointed-toe flats to flip flops, and they even work well with sneakers, especially styles with a more elongated toe.
If you want a similar option for less, the KUT from the Kloth Meg is another really good wide-leg style. It also comes in several lengths and washes, and they’re very flattering and hold up well to washing and wearing.
PAIGE Mason in Crisp White
(also at Nordstrom and EVEREVE)
PAIGE Mason (30) // PAIGE Syrie Top (M) // Dolce Vita Cely Sandals (8) // earrings // straw clutch // KUT from the Kloth Piper (S) // Splendid Josie Tank (L) // Kaanas sandals (8) // belt (M/L) // woven belt bag
If I could only keep one pair of white jeans in my closet, it would be the PAIGE Mason. They’re thick, soft, and comfortable, not at all see-through, and they have a nice slim straight ankle-length silhouette that pairs well with just about any type of shoe.
My only complaint is the rise. I wish it was a smidge higher, but otherwise, they’re practically perfect in every way. I brought them on both Florida trips this spring and probably wore them more than any other item in my suitcase.
For a lower-priced alternative that’s almost as good, take a look at the J.Crew Slim-Wide Leg. They’re a bit thinner, slightly wider, and more of a soft white, but still a really good versatile pair.
Shoes & Sandals
This is a hard category to narrow down! For some reason, I have a lot of sandals this season. A lot were gifted, so there’s that, but I’ve also purchased quite a few pairs myself. Ironically, two of my most-worn pairs so far are actually from last year because I packed them for multiple trips this spring.
I’m honestly not as into shoes as I am denim, and I’m definitely not as picky about quality. I mostly just want shoes to be comfortable, look cute, and work well with my outfits. But if I had to narrow it down to five pairs I’m wearing this season that I would absolutely replace if I lost them, these would be the ones:
Kaanas Alayta Square Toe Naked Sandals in Gold
Kaanas Alayta (8) // Tommy Bahama linen sheath (L) // straw clutch // PAIGE Mason (30) // Splendid Josie Tank (L) // Quince linen jacket (M) // woven crossbody
The Kaanas Alayta is a pair I carried over from last year. They’re flat, strappy, and surprisingly flattering on the foot. The light gold color is incredibly versatile and works with almost everything in my spring and summer wardrobe. They’re easy to dress up or down, and very thin and lightweight, which means they almost always make it into my suitcase when I travel.
Dolce Vita Dallen Sandals in Saddle Leather
Dolce Vita Dallen Sandals (8) // Vineyard Vines shorts (10) // LNA Dessa (M) // PAIGE Anessa Twisted c/o (30) // Madewell vest tank (M)
My Dolce Vita Dallen Sandals have a similar strappy look to the Alayta sandals but with a molded footbed that makes them much more comfortable for all-day wear. I also love the saddle color because it looks so good with a tan. Mine are actually from last year and almost sold out, but the current Dom style has a very similar look, and the Deane is another good option if you like the gold hardware detail.
Dolce Vita Mikel Flats in Camel
LEFT: Dolce Vita Mikel Flats c/o (8.5) // KUT Piper (S) // LNA tank (L) // PAIGE Mason (30) // woven belt bag // RIGHT: Moana sweater c/o (S) // PAIGE Stevie c/o (30) // Rifle Paper Co. Sport Canteen c/o // MAISON de SABRÉ bucket tote
For a closed-toe option, I’ve probably reached for these perforated Mary Jane flats more than any other pair this spring, although now that I have a tan, I do wish I had them in the Light Brown color. I think they would look better against my skin and be more versatile, but I like this lighter shade for a change. And it pairs beautifully with my MAISON de SABRÉ bucket tote in Saharan Fuchsia.
They’re cute, current, comfortable, and work equally well with both full-length and ankle-length jeans and pants in straight or wide-leg silhouettes. The perforated suede feels especially current right now, and it and adds a nice bit of texture and interest to simple outfits.
Dolce Vita Sariya Sneaker in White Nylon
Dolce Vita Sariya (8.5) // Madewell Jules (29) // J.Crew sweatshirt (S) // Michael Stars stripe sweater (on sale) (M)
If I had to pick just one sneaker right now, it would probably be the Dolce Vita Sariya because I love the slip-on style, and they have a nice current feel without looking overly trendy. They’re really comfortable, too.
Dolce Vita Mylee Heels
Dolce Vita Mylee Heels in Light Tan (8.5) // Ming Wang dress (S) // old mesh top // MOTHER Weekender – on sale! (30)
For a heel, it’s definitely the Dolce Vita Mylee, another carryover from last year! I love the strappy design, the polished gold hardware, and the perfect neutral shade. They’re also surprisingly comfortable. I wore them for hours one day last summer, and my finicky feet held up remarkably well.
TKEES Flip Flops
LEFT: TKEES Lily Nudes in Au Naturelle c/o (8) // J.Crew Factory sweater (M) // KUT Jane (8) // RIGHT: TKEES Square Toe Lily in Cocobutter c/o (8) // navy dress (M) // Marlyn Schiff bracelet c/o
Finally, I want to give a shoutout to the TKEES flip flops! I now have two pairs, both kindly gifted by the brand, but I would happily purchase them myself. I like both the round- and square-toe styles. They’re so comfortable, such nice quality, flattering on the foot, and they hold up really well. I haven’t been precious with mine, either. I’ve worn them to the beach and pool, and they still look great.
Easy Layers & Lightweight Jackets
This category is a mix of tops, sweatshirts, sweaters, and lightweight jackets that have been in heavy rotation lately. I tend to cycle these types of pieces through my closet more quickly than jeans and shoes, so it’s harder to narrow this category down, but these are the standouts I’ve reached for again and again.
EVEREVE Heritage Sweatshirt
EVEREVE Heritage Sweatshirt (S) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (30P) // Dolce Vita Sariya Sneakers (8.5) // Vuori Energy Top Long (M) // Vuori Modern Straight Leg Pants (M) // XERO shoes (9)
We’ve had a chilly spring this year, and this cozy sweatshirt has been such a great piece to have. The subtle retro vibe and classic style make it easy to wear with everything from jeans to shorts, and I also like to throw it over my shoulders when I need an extra layer.
A closer runner-up to this would be the LNA Joey Henley Sweatshirt. I can’t believe it’s still fully stocked and marked down so deeply! It’s super soft and cozy, and the relaxed fit, snap-front neckline, and adjustable hem make it easy to wear and surprisingly flattering.
Also, I want to give a shoutout to the Vuori Modern Straight Leg Pants I’m wearing above. They don’t fit neatly into any of the categories in this post, but I wanted to mention them because I wear them constantly.
These are my go-to when I want something easy and soft to pull on at home but I’m not quite ready for pajamas yet. They haven’t gotten enough airtime around here because I tend to wear them while winding down at the end of the day, on lazy Sunday afternoons, or for neighborhood walks, so I don’t always photograph them. But they have such a polished look while still feeling incredibly comfortable.
Vince Cable Short Sleeve Sweater in Clover
Vince Cable Short Sleeve Sweater (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // similar belt // Veronica Beard flats (8.5) // Freja Caroline // Gap Easy Wide-Leg Pants (S) // Margaux The Demi (39)
Short-sleeve sweaters are definitely having a moment, and this one was an early standout at the beginning of the season. The wool/cashmere blend made it easy to start wearing before our weather warmed up, but the bright spring green and short sleeves allow me to keep wearing it even now, especially since we’ve had such a chilly spring.
I love the quality of this sweater and how classic yet modern it looks. The sleeve length is also perfect — not too long and not too short, which can actually be hard to find in a short-sleeve sweater.
Michael Stars Mikaela Relaxed Pullover
also on sale at Zappos
Michael Stars Mikaela Relaxed Pullover c/o (M) // Madewell Jules (29) // Dolce Vita Sariya (8.5) // Quince woven satchel
This piece was gifted from Michael Stars, but I found it on sale at Zappos. It’s such a gorgeous sweater, and the quality is really nice. I love the rolled edges (another classic detail that’s having a moment right now) and the pretty red-and-ivory stripe combo. It pairs beautifully with blue jeans, and it’s also great for throwing over your shoulders once the weather warms up a bit. It somehow feels both modern and timeless at the same time. Definitely worth the investment.
Free People Neria Rib Tank in Black
Free People Neria Rib Tank (L) // PAIGE Olivia (30) // TKEES flip flops (8) // PAIGE Ari // Dolce Vita Sariya (8.5)
For a lighter layer, this Free People tank has become a fast favorite. It came with me on all of my trips this spring, and it will definitely be on repeat all summer here at home, too. I’ve worn it with everything from jeans and linen pants to shorts and skirts. It has such fun details and a really flattering fit. It also comes in tons of colors and is actually on sale at Nordstrom right now.
Velvet Zoella Sleeveless Collared Sweater
Velvet Zoella Sleeveless Collared Sweater (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // Jeffrey Campbell flats (8.5) // Madewell Jules (29) // Steve Madden Lucia (8.5)
This one hasn’t gotten worn as much yet, but I love it and can’t wait to wear it more now that I’m home and our weather is finally cooperating. It’s such a cute piece, with the combination of the cropped sweater shape, collar, and rugby stripes.
I love the fit, the quality is really nice, and it’s the perfect stand-alone top to pair with jeans and flats this spring.
KUT from the Kloth Piper Short Sleeve Jacket
LEFT: KUT Piper Short Sleeve Jacket (S) // black dress (M) // Sam Edelman Camiille (8) // RIGHT: LNA tank in Navy (L) // PAIGE Mason (30) // Kaanas sandals (8) // beaded fish necklace // beaded bracelet // gold hoops // woven crossbody
I like this piece because it works well as both a top and a lightweight jacket. Sometimes I bring it along as an extra layer, like over the black dress above, and other times I treat it as part of the outfit itself, like with the white jeans and tank.
I don’t usually wear it buttoned, and if I did, I’d probably need to size up. But I like how the small fits worn open like you see here.
Quince 100% European Linen Jacket in Flax
LEFT: Quince linen jacket (M) // Quince waffle tank (M) // PAIGE Mason (30) // Stella & Dot bracelet // Anthro necklace // RIGHT: Quince linen jacket (M) // similar tank // PAIGE Anessa Twisted (39) // TKEES flip flops (8)
I haven’t worn this jacket quite as much as I expected yet, but I have a feeling it’s going to get a lot more airtime now that I’m home for a while. I found myself wishing I’d packed it for my Sarasota trip.
It’s such a nice, versatile topper that works beautifully with both blue and white jeans, and the lightweight linen makes it especially easy and comfortable to wear. Definitely one of my top jacket picks for spring.
Risen Denim Jacket
LEFT: Risen denim jacket c/o (M) // Free People tank (L) // Atheta Brooklyn Cargo Pants (6) // ON Cloud sneakers (9) // AWAY Featherlight Backpack // Quince Expandable Suitcase // RIGHT: Ruti pants c/o (8) // Faherty tee (M)
Sadly, this one is low inventory, but I still wanted to include it because it’s a great example of a more trend-forward denim jacket. I love the oversized styling, stand collar, and extra pocket detail.
I find myself gravitating towards more oversized denim jackets rather than traditional trucker styles lately because they feel more current and relaxed while still being incredibly versatile.
Dresses
It’s unusual for me to have a dresses category, but as I get older, I’m finding myself appreciating an easy one-and-done outfit more and more, especially this time of year. These are the dresses I’ve worn the most on recent trips and the ones I’m most excited to keep wearing all summer at home. Most won’t surprise you, so I’ll keep the descriptions brief. For size reference, I have a medium in all of these.
EVEREVE Mary Textured Dress
LEFT: EVEREVE Mary Textured Dress (M) // Dolce Vita sandals (8) // Eric Javits Hat // similar tote // Tom Ford sunnies // RIGHT: Mary Textured Sheath (M) // Dolce Vita Deane (8) // woven crossbody // beaded bracelet
An easy textured shift dress with pockets and a relaxed fit. Perfect for dressing up or down, and I’ve even worn it as a swim cover-up.
Tommy Bahama Darcy V-Neck Sheath Dress
Darcy Dress (M) // Kaanas sandals (8) // J.Crew clutch
No surprise here, but I couldn’t leave this one out! Super flattering and easy to dress up or down, this v-neck sheath is made from a lightweight ponte fabric that drapes beautifully and packs like a dream. I recently ordered this similar style in a pretty blue print to try.
Tommy Bahama Sunset Harbor Dress in Coastline
Tommy Bahama Sunset Harbor Dress (M) // Frankie4 Harris Espadrille (8.5) // Kaanas sandals (8)
I brought this one to St. Lucia, and I love the easy fit and soft slub cotton fabric. I didn’t bring it to Sarasota and regretted that decision because it would have been perfect for some of our casual dinners. I’ll definitely be wearing this one a lot at home this summer.
Tommy Bahama Beleza Blossom Three Quarter Sleeve Shift Dress
also at Bloomingdale’s (M) // another print option
Yes, another Tommy Bahama! They’ve really been nailing it lately. This is such a nice piece — gorgeous print, breezy linen fabric, easy shift shape with an adjustable tie waist, and flattering 3/4 sleeves. Most sizes are in stock at Bloomingdale’s.
I hope you enjoyed this little peek into the real MVPs in my closet right now, and maybe it will even inspire you to take a fresh look at your own closet heading into summer!
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22 Responses
Just love this post! Sometimes I am overwhelmed when looking for a certain item, for example white pants/jeans. I feel you have written about so many different options and I lose track of them all. Now here it is all in one place and easy to find.
My husband and I just had a shopping weekend and took a 2.5 hour drive to be able to hit all my favorite stores, as we have little local. I wandered into Madewell at the end of the day yesterday and saw the Jules, and thought I have to try them on as JoLynne has mentioned them so many times. On my gosh, they fit me like a glove, so happy I had read about them from you.
Our sizes must be very similar as my favorite jeans have always been the Paige Anissa now the Jules. I also bought a pair of the Mother Lemon twist jeans in ecru and I think I have every pair of the Dolce Vita sandals. I have to agree the Dallen is the best shoe and I still wear them all the time, and will be very sad when they eventually wear out!
Please make this a monthly (or two monthly) option, its great!
Great idea to identify wardrobe MVPs. Regarding shoes, brands like Naturalizer and Vionic have a good selection of wide widths. Yes, even though I am athletic and petite, I have broad, dancer’s feet that need a wide. My current MVP sandals are from those two companies. 🙂 Also, I discovered recently that Dolce Vita offers quite a number of stylish shoes in wide. I am going to try their Manji heel. I love the look of the Mylee that you have, Jo-Lynne, and it also comes in a wide, but it has a toe strap, which I find uncomfortable. The Manji is similar, but no toe strap, so I felt they were worth checking out. Clothing, mostly workwear, so I guess everything is a MVP there (LOL), but for my casual moments, I am loving Z by Zella shorts from Nordstrom Rack. They are SO soft, great for lounging around the house. My MVP denim is from Talbots, their petite length is perfect for me! 🙂
Great post! Love all your outfits. Can you comment on the Ruti pants-worth the money and how often do you wear them? I’m contemplating getting a pair in a lighter color but unsure if I’d get my cost per wear out of them.
I feel like I would wear a lighter color more right now. I haven’t reached for the black as much as I thought I would. They’re great pants, though.
I love the look of the Madewell Jules but that rise! They must be good on you to rank them as a favorite. I guess the only way to know if they would work on me is to try them.
Thanks for all of the suggestions. It helps to know what you actually wear on repeat.
They have free returns for Madewell Insiders, can’t hurt to try! It does not feel that low to me.
What a great post!!! Thank you so much for cutting through the clutter. And yes, please keep this type of post going !!
The Naria tank says true to size on the website, but it looks like you have the large. I usually wear the same size in tops as you. Does it run small, so you have the large, not medium? Thank you.
It’s just very stretchy and form-fitting, so I sized up to be sure it wasn’t too clingy. Also, it helps to have a little extra length.
Thanks for a peak into your MVP’s. Great options for one’s spring and summer closet. I appreciate the low profile, clean look and versatility of the Dolce Vita Sariya Sneakers but I find them a bit narrow. Do you have another similar comfortable and style option that would have a more generous width? Thanks for the inspiration!
I don’t know of anything off the top of my head.
Great post and post concept!
Yes, please make this a recurring feature!
I enjoyed learning what pieces in your closet are the standouts. My shoulder surgery is the big influencer for what I’m wearing this spring and summer.
Tkees sandals are great. The footbed is padded enough for leather sandals, my picky feet can handle walking in them for a few hours.
I’ve had my two pairs for years – bought them both before Covid. They get semi-regular wear and are in good condition. I have the flip flops, and am interested in some of the other styles as well.
I enjoyed this post and hope its a reoccurring feature also! I was interested in the black Free People Rib Tank, but a comment on the site said it faded in one wash? Have you found that? Also, I would have liked to have seen which handbags were your favorites and that you grab often and rely on. Hope you make this a reoccurring post full of your favorites!
I’ve washed mine a few times and haven’t noticed fading yet.
The Tommy Bahama shift dress…do you think the belt is necessary? I have a high waist and have never liked belts on me.
No, you can try without. I will just say, I am also very high waisted and never belt a dress, but this works for me! So it’s worth a try. Or you can try to wear it straight more like a shift.
I have had some Madewell kick out crop jeans in a washed black/gray that have been one of my most worn pair of cropped jeans for a couple of years. They fit just right and hold their shape well. I may try a lighter wash in the Jules for spring.
I bought the Frame Modern pocket wide leg jeans after seeing yours in a post, and I already have worn them several times this week. I was happy to find a wide leg I found flattering, and the length is perfect.
Anyway, I love this post of most worn favorites!
I have been following you for years & love your blog. So appreciate all the heavy lifting you do for us. I picked up the Dolce Vita Mylee sandals & feel like Cinderella! Perfect fit & just in time for Graduation events. Next, Vuori order will happen once I pay for the Grad party, lol. Thank you!!
So happy to hear this. 🤗