5 Items, 3 Spring Outfit Ideas

3 Spring outfit ideas from 5 basic pieces (that you  might already have in your closet!)

You may have noticed that I usually stay away from posts centered around styling something multiple ways. It’s not because I don’t rewear things or mix and match my closet – it’s because I know that you guys already know that you can throw a cardigan over a dress or wear a sweater with jeans or a skirt. Duh. That being said, after packing for a 9 day trip in a carry on, I realized how helpful it can be to get a few new outfit ideas utilizing a few simple pieces.

The Five Pieces:

1. Button Down Shirt

I got this one at Alice & Wonder and it was the perfect travel basic. I’m wearing a size small, and even though a little big, I kind of like it that way. You can either tie the loose ends in a knot (pictured above), or if you want it a little tighter around your waist, you can tie the loose ends in a bow (seen in the second outfit!). I promise, it doesn’t look like a bow – it just helps avoid too much extra fabric.

2. Tank Dress

This was another Alice & Wonder find, and even though it’s almost sold out (if you’re a medium, go get it!), there are TONS of similar tank dresses out there. I just got this one from the Shopbop sale, but I also love this newer printed dress from Alice & Wonder, too!

3. Sneakers

In my opinion, you can’t go wrong with Keds! They’re classics for a reason – they look cute, they’re super comfortable, and never go out of style. If you’re looking for something different, I also LOVE my Cole Haan sneakers – I wore them all over Barcelona and Lisbon and my feet never hurt. I also hear great things about this pair by Tretorn!

4. Black Jeans

You could obviously wear this shirt with any jeans, but who doesn’t love a classic black and white look? This button fly pair is my favorite, but if your size is sold out, I also love this pair of black jeans (slightly cropped normally, so great on petites!).

5. Fun Sandals

The tassel sandals in this post are from last year, but I looove this pair of low heels, too! If you’re more of a high heel gal, the sky’s the limit! Also, when I say “fun” sandals, I really just mean something that means you feel fun for nighttime. They can be neutral if that’s your thing. Why not?!

Spring Outfit Ideas

Look #1

Button down shirt over the tank dress with Keds. Perfect for brunch with girlfriends or a busy day running around the city.

Since Chicago weather can be pretty unpredictable, it’s nice to have something to throw over your shoulders if you’re feeling chilly. Sure, cardigans and jackets work – but this shirt feels a part of this outfit instead of an afterthought. Plus, if the sun comes out and you get warm, just tie it around your waist for another cute look!

Look #2

Button down shirt with black jeans and those trusty Keds. This outfit was literally perfect for sight seeing around Lisbon, and it would be just as great for running errands or a work day at a cute coffee shop.

I know you can’t really see it in these photos, but I also added this colorful scrunchie for a little extra pop! 

Look #3

The same tank dress from Look #1 with fun sandals for date night or a dinner with your girlfriends!

I chose these flirty tassel shoes for the colors and because I love a walkable heel – but you could totally rock this dress with a pair of true high heels, too. Especially if it’s date night!

Which look is your favorite?!

Also, are posts like this helpful? Would you like to see more? I always like to get feedback from you guys, so let me know!

PS. You might also like What I Own From The Shopbop Sale + Spring Favorites, My Favorite Brunches in Chicago, and Best Chicago Date Night Restaurants.