(Image credit: Courtesy of Mango; Courtesy of Urban Outfitters; Courtesy of Fashionphile; Courtesy of Saks; Original Illustration by Yracema Rivas)
Last month, I shared my humble opinions on the TikTok-aesthetic craze, and I received a bit of feedback that I’d like to share. It seems that navigating trend cycles is confusing for many of us in our late 20s. They go as quickly as they come and often leave us with wardrobe pieces we no longer know how to style. The dilemma of wanting to dress both on-trend and “our age” is common among zillennials like me, and I’m determined to help. The start of spring is a great time to test-drive trends such as Western motifs, pretty things with bows, sheer fabrics, and (tasteful) polka dots in a way that doesn’t feel like you’re adopting a completely new identity. So if you’re also struggling to find a balance between your personal style and ever-evolving trends, I think this round-up is the sweet spot. Keep scrolling to see exactly what I’m talking about.
Jenni Kayne
Cooper Cardigan
My Gen Z and millennial co-workers agree this is the chicest sweater on the market.
Banana Republic
Flora Pebbled Leather Belt
I’m swapping my black belts for cream options this spring.
This is great for layering under a cardigan until summer arrives.
Agolde
Clara Low-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
Low-rise jeans used to terrify me, but this cool pair convinced me to give them a go.
Staud
Tommy Beaded Top-Handle Bag
Sardines are one trend I truly never saw coming, but now that it’s here, I’m thrilled about it.
Ganni
Tie-Front Puff-Sleeve Poplin Mini Dress
Urban Outfitters
Petra Buckle Slingback Heel
The Gen Z girls love a kitten hell, and so do I.
Levi’s
Blue Western Trucker Denim Jacket
The pointed collar really gives it that subtle Western flair.
Urban Outfitters
Everleigh Halter Midi Dress
Jennifer Lawrence really said polka dots are back when she wore that gorgeous Dior gown to the Oscars.
Mango
Cowboy Leather Boots
Stunning boots, stunning price.
Jacquemus
Blue Les Sculptures Le Cuerda Horizontal Bag
One of my favorite Gen Z trends is a practical handbag like this crossbody style.
Banana Republic
Fern Linen-Blend Sweater Polo
A great application of sheer fabric that you can wear every day.
Urban Renewal
Remnants Made in La Button Front Boxer Short
Never in my life did I think I would wear boxer shorts in public, but I have to say they are pretty darn cute.
Loeffler Randall
Landry Woven Leather Ballerina Flats
The perfect example of a ballet flat that doesn’t feel too young.
Banana Republic
Caro Lightweight Cashmere Henley
Dipping my toes into the preppy aesthetic with Henleys and polos.
Isabel Marant
Zap Studded Leather Belt
The grown-up version of the studded belt I wore in middle school.
Citizens of Humanity
Horseshoe Frayed Jeans
Our office has rallied around barrel-leg jeans—just check out our latest post on TikTok.
Birkenstock
Boston Soft Footbed Suede Clog
I’m a sucker for Birkenstock’s latest color offerings.
Hermès
Stainless Steel Epsom Heure H Hour Quartz Watch Noir
ICYMI, watches are back and better than ever.
Oversize blazers still have a chokehold on me. This investment option will last in your wardrobe for years to come.
Mango
Mid-Rise Wideleg Trousers
Capris are trending again, but I think this is a more approachable version that totally works for the office.
Falke
Dot Mesh Anklet Socks
I saw the cutest woman on the subway rocking sheer socks with loafers, and now I must do the same.
Banana Republic
Navarre Penny Loafer
This classic flat shoe has remained on-trend for years now, and for that, my feet are grateful.
Banana Republic
Mariner Link Earrings
These are such a unique design.
Reformation
Marleigh Seamed Linen Top
Reformation
Lucy Cotton Maxi Skirt
A-line skirts for the win in spring 2024.
BY FAR
Velvet Semi-Transparent Round Acetate Sunglasses
If the trick to dressing well is balancing classic and trendy pieces, I think sunglasses are where you can experiment more.
Sporty & Rich
Blue Prince Edition Health Hoodie
Trends come and go, but comfortable hoodies are forever.
Wales Bonner
Off-White Adidas Originals Edition Statement Track Pants
According to tweens, leggings are now cringy, so I’m reaching for track pants when I want a more relaxed weekend look.
Adidas x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams
Off-White & Pink Samba Sneakers
The Samba reign lives on.
Prada
Nylon New Vela Studded Messenger Bag Black
Nothing unites us all quite like our love for Prada.