A Little Pre-Spring Retail Reconnaissance

By Unefemme @DejaPseu

Anticipating a new season always refreshes my style outlook. It's a chance to take stock of my closet, and start thinking about what new pieces might revitalize my existing wardrobe. It's also a good point to evaluate which pieces it might be time to let go.

We still have work going on at the house, but I managed to get out for a while and make a quick pass through some of our local stores yesterday. Here are a few cute things that caught my eye.

Spring Toppers

Above: pastels seem to be a strong trend for this season, including outerwear. This pale pink raincoat is lightweight, and available in Petite and Tall sizes as well. (Also offered in a bright yellow and navy.) J.Crew is offering 30% off full-priced styles today with code DIYUMSN.

Also now offered in pastel shades (blue, pink and grey) this knit sweater blazer is the same style as the one I have in "hthr khaki" (camel). It's a great little throw-on-and-go topper for transitional season wear. The blue looks really pretty against denim or a navy-and-white

You're going to have to trust me on this one. The picture doesn't do this jacket justice. If pastels aren't your thing, this lightweight stretch crepe kimono jacket ( Petite / Plus ) in "Serrano" is worth a look. The shape is swingy but not voluminous, and the cuffs are notched and look good turned up. The pockets are slightly slouchy. The color is softer and a little more terracotta than it appears here. It's a nice counterpoint to Spring pinks and nude shades, and will rev up your neutrals. It's also available in Rye, a soft taupe.

Eye-Catching Accessories

This little bucket bag is really good-looking, a nice size for everyday use, and lightweight. I'm picky about leopard prints, and this one gets my stamp of approval.

The pink color on these suede mules is Just Right...not too muddy, not too twee. They're feminine but not fussy, and surprisingly neutral. The heel is 2-1/4 inches and definitely looks higher in this image than it did in person.

But these are the ones I'm going back to try on later this week. I just love that mustard color! (And wouldn't these look great that pastel blue?)

How do you feel about pastels? Are you a fan, or do you prefer brighter colors?

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