#Spring has sprung, and #summer is fast approaching! Here in Austin, it already feels like summer. It’s hot. I mean, really hot. So, usually I have what I like to call ‘a vogue winter, thrasher summer’. Basically, I love to get all dolled up in the colder months, and sloppily throw on some cut off denim shorts and a tank top in the summer. It’s a tragedy, I know. When it’s 105° in mid July, wearing anything but shorts and a tank sounds just horrible. This year will be different. I promised myself I would find a way to look cute when it’s warm out. I’m throwing out my tattered 5 year old cut offs with the stringy things that hang down to the knees. I will look like a lady this summer!

I am now officially on the hunt for a few perfect spring and summer pieces. Here is my shopping criteria: girly, easy to transition, and not crazy/out of control expensive. It’s ok to splurge a little on a nice dress or something, but I want to feel comfortable (not guilty) sweating in whatever it is you’re wearing. It’s always good to cycle your clothes. Every season, I sell some of my old stuff to buy new stuff for the up-and-coming season. That way I keep my closet current, without breaking the bank.

Here are a few of my favorite spring/summer pieces from around the web: 

Stucco Stripe Songbird Dress, $138, www.Madewell.com

This is that splurge I mentioned. This dress would be amazing year-round! I’m picturing it layered over a pair of tights and sweater thrown over it when it’s chilly, but the cotton/linen blend is perfect for the dog days of summer.

High-Waisted Flair Skirt, $49, www.Mikkatmarket.com

I’m kind of having a love affair with all things high-waisted. If you’re kind of a busty girl, high-waisted and or belted at the waist is super flattering. This skirt would be cute with anything from a loose tee to a crop top. 

The Liza Top, $52, www.Needsupply.com

OH MY GOSH. This shirt. I could see wearing this everyday in the summer time. I just love it to bits. You can’t go wrong with 100% cotton lace.

The Quill Dress, $58, www.Needsupply.com

Lately, I’ve found myself eyeballing all kinds of blouses and dresses with peek-a-boo shoulders. I want to hate it for some reason, but I just can’t. I adore it. The vintage leaf pattern on this dress just puts it over the top.

 

Seaglass Tank, $34, www.Needsupply.com

This color is incredible. I love the idea of pairing this with a cute pair of tap shorts. 

Bright Shorts, $39.90, www.Zara.com

These come in a few colors (white, light pink, royal blue, green), but I’m feeling that amazing shade of green. The little buttons are a cute touch!

Cropped Banded Back Tee, $9.90, www.Forever21.com

Perfect with all things high-waisted, comes in a few colors, and super cheap so you can stock up!

 

Striped High Low Button Up, $17.80, www.Forever21.com 

Oh what fun this blouse is! Think of the pattern mixing options!

MOTO Printed Hotpants, $68, www.Topshop.com

This print is just ridiculous (this is a good thing!!). Imagine an updated and flirty version of the Hawaiian shirt… turned shorts… turned awesome.

ASOS Playsuit in Car Print, $69.08, www.ASOS.com

This fabric is so cute, it kills a small part of me on the inside. If I buy one thing this spring, I hope it’s this. Are you kidding me? Vintage cars, martini glasses, sneakers, palm trees, and music notes?! I’m in love!! For some reason, I feel like Alexa Chung would be too.

I tend to go for basics and lots of neutrals with very few prints and bright colors. I’ve just always had a hard time with them. That playsuit may just get me out of my comfort zone! Trying to work something new into your wardrobe can be a little challenging and uncomfortable at first. I find that whenever I try wearing something new that’s a little different than what I’m used to, I get the most compliments! So just go print + texture + color crazy this warm season and try a new look!

What are some of the things you want to work into your closet this spring and summer? Any trends you’re loving but too scared to try?