The best way to describe my spring wardrobe up until a year or two ago was: “grown-up Wednesday Adams.”

I wore a lot of black.

And there’s nothing wrong with the colorless void, but there’s something about this coming spring and summer, in particular, that has me craving color in my closet. Lots of it.

Pastel Colors, Interesting Basics & A Floral Dress: A J.Crew Try-On For Spring

Shorts | Sweatshirt | Sneakers | Necklace

Clearly, J.Crew also got that memo because their new spring 2022 arrivals are a feast for the eyes. Think: dreamy florals, lovely lavenders, gorgeous greens, and beyond.

I recently tried six pieces — from chino shorts and spring sweatshirts to dresses, slip skirts, and more — all from J.Crew that’ll hopefully take me from the doldrums of winter to the promise of spring.

1 | Flora Obscura X J.Crew Side Cutout Dress

Dress | Sandals

This Flora Cutout Dress is so cottage-core-chic I feel like I need to waltz through a field of flowers for a TikTok video in it. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the dress didn’t pull across my chest and shoulders. The best part? Even with the cutout you can totally wear a normal bra with it. Call me Maria because “these are a few of my favorite things.” I chose a pair of under-$60 lilac heels to pick up the purple in the dress and bring this look fully into spring.

Fit Notes: The dress runs TTS (I’m wearing a 10). The sandals are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).

---

2 | Wide V-Neck, Sweetheart-Style Sweater

Sweater | Jeans | Flats

When I saw this wide V-neck sweater I knew I had to try it. The neckline is unique, and I can’t resist a slouchy sleeve. My only concern was the bra situation but, spoiler alert, it works with a v-cut bra. It’s the ideal weight for those cooler spring mornings or afternoons on the beach on the Cape (a girl can dream). I paired it with my go-to Tory Burch flats that I’ve been loving for the past (gulp) decade or so and the J.Crew boyfriend jeans I am low-key obsessed with.

Fit Notes: The sweater is TTS (I’m wearing a large). The jeans run big (I sized down two to a 28). The flats are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).

---

3 | Kate Straight-Leg Pants in Bi-Stretch Cotton

Pants | Sweater | Sandals

If I was returning to an office I would have these Kate Straight-Leg Pants in every color. The green is a nice departure from black or gray for spring and looks fabulous paired with the V-neck sweater in a creamy neutral. The pants are ankle length and have a good amount of stretch in them (definitely size down). I added my new Sam Edelman sandals that mimic the look of Birkenstock Big Buckle Sandals and are so comfy.

Fit Notes: The pants run big, size down (I’m wearing an 8). The sweater is TTS (I’m wearing a large). The sandals are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).

---

4 | 4″ Stretch Chino Shorts

Shorts | Sweatshirt | Sneakers | Necklace

These 4-inch chino shorts are about the shortest I’ll go, but I couldn’t resist this color. I ordered a 10, but exchanged for an 8. They were just a little too big (they do have some stretch so account for that in sizing). I love the pink sweatshirt, and then the white and black sneakers to break up the color and give it a casual, somewhat sporty vibe.

Fit Notes: Shorts run big, size down (I’m wearing an 8). The sweatshirt is TTS (I’m wearing a large). Sneakers are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).

---

5 | Pull-On Slip Skirt

Skirt | Sweater | Sandals | Necklace

I couldn’t resist taking this lavender slip skirt for a spin (I’m a big fan of styling slip skirts for all seasons). It’s midi length (I’m 5’7 for reference) and definitely requires a good steam before wearing out. I love playing with proportions and the wide V-neck sweater works perfectly with the skirt. It isn’t too long, which can sometimes make the skirt/sweater combo look sloppy. I added my new obsession — bright yellow sandals — and a dainty choker to complete the look.

Fit Notes: The skirt runs big (I sized down to a medium). The sweater is TTS (I’m wearing a large). The sandals are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).

---

6| Magic Rinse™ Crewneck Sweatshirt 

Sweatshirt | Shorts | Sneakers | Necklace

I’m sorry, was I supposed to be able to resist a sweatshirt with lip prints on it!? I prefer a lighter sweatshirt for the spring and this crew neck sweatshirt is giving everything. Ideal for spring morning walks or to throw over a bathing suit when going out on the boat. It’s so cozy. Again I went with a pink and purple look, and paired the sweatshirt with my purple chino shorts and kicks.

Fit Notes: The sweatshirt runs TTS (I’m wearing a large). The shorts run big (size down, I exchanged for an 8). The sneakers are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).

Back to top

Lately Colorado can’t seem to make up its mind as to what season we’re in. With some days reaching 60 degrees and then snow the next day, I’m not sure when spring will officially arrive. But, I know that when it shows its face for real, I’ll be ready, purple shorts and all.

x, Meredith