Welcome to the Nothing To Wear Edit where each week we curate the best picks from the topic we spoke about on the podcast. Listen to the full episode here.
This week on Nothing To Wear I chatted to Sally Mackinnon, a Melbourne-based stylist who helps brands and clients with ageless style. Because while we may tell ourselves we can't wear certain trends or items because of our age, there are no rules.
It's all about our frame of mind, and wearing what makes us feel good — regardless of which store the clothes come from and how old the models are in their campaigns. With that in mind, here are my favourite spring picks that are great for any age and my suggestions on how to style them.
Timeless spring essentials recommended by Leigh.
Commonry Flat Iron Linen Skirt, $199.95.
A neutral midi skirt in a linen (or linen blend) will quickly become one of your 10 per cent pieces. A knit and trainers or boots, a tee and sandals, then throw on a denim jacket or a trench — there's really nowhere a classic skirt like this can't take you.
& Other Stories Tiered Tie-Strap Midi Dress, $169.
If you're after an item you can pick out, pull on and go, this is it. A statement dress that's versatile enough to wear to the beach or a wedding, all you have to do is decide on shoes and accessories.
The 1964 Denim Company Women's Straight Leg Jean, $25.
If you're not sure about really wide-leg jeans and you've heard skinny-leg might be on the way back, may I suggest a straight-leg style? It's a classic cut that's always 'in' and can be worn casually with a tee or tank, or dressed up with kitten heels and a silk shirt or cami.
LMND Limonda Tee, $119.
I love a logo tee because it makes weekend dressing easy - just chuck it on with jeans or shorts. But I also like wearing them with suit pants and tailoring to give my usually more corporate or dressy pieces a casual twist.
Country Road Utility Organza Shirt in Abstract Zebra Print, $179.
Bold prints are big this coming season, you're about to see them in stores everywhere. I like this one because the brown and white make it more wearable than bright primary colours. The short sleeve is casual-cool, but you can still tuck the shirt in for a more polished look. Wear it with tailored pants or over swimmers, and with anything in between.
Calli Dale Tuck Dress, $159.95.
Another one-and-done option, this classic black dress features straps thick enough to wear a bra underneath. And a flattering tapered waistline. Not into black? Grab it in the pale link instead.
Cue Drapey Wide Leg Pants, $265.
Wide-leg pants are everywhere and won't be going anywhere because they're easy to wear. They're both comfy and they give off a sophisticated vibe no matter what you pair them with.
Mod Squad Luxe Mesh Shacket, $70.
This one's a bit left of centre but hear me out. This sheer shirt would look incredible buttoned up over a black bra or crop top, but you could also wear a fitted black tank if you wanted more coverage. Or, wear it opened as a cool cover-up over a cocktail dress for weddings and formal events.
Decjuba D-Luxe Relaxed Denim Jogger, $109.95.
Want the comfort of trackie pants with the elevation of denim? You got it. Wear these with a tee to kid's sports, or with a blazer for when you want to feel powerful.
&me Women's Relaxed Linen Blend Blazer, $38.
This is one of those classic cut blazers that goes with everything. You can throw it over a slip dress or team it with shorts. And the linen fabric is perfect for the warmer months. This will quickly become your favourite go-to piece.
Read these next for more Spring wardrobe essentials:
- 5 key pieces you need to add to your spring wardrobe, according to a fashion editor.
- Linen pants, plus 9 other basics you need to add to your wardrobe this spring.
- 'I’m a fashion writer. Here are 11 items I’m eyeing off for spring.'
Feature image: Supplied/The Iconic/Myer/BigW.