With the new season upon us, there is no better time to set your intention for the months ahead, letting go of things that no longer serve you and making room for new and enriching experiences. Spring cleaning has become a bit of a cliché, but there is a lot to be said for shaking up the energy of your surrounding environment and re-organising your space to enter into a new season and phase in your life. Your wardrobe is a great place to start as what you wear every day can impact your mood and even your lifestyle.
 
As you embark on this refreshing exercise, depending on where you are at in your life, a case can be made in today’s world to consider investment dressing and the cost per wear. Thinking about who made your clothes, how these pieces impact the environment and more specifically your environment, and consuming consciously may be a lot more cost effective and rewarding than you think, particularly to your aesthetic.
 
Whether it be doing a little declutter, taking a whole bunch of items to the dry cleaner or repurposing last season’s wares, taking a good hard look at your wardrobe and bringing your essentials front and centre, will make every day dressing a breeze as you welcome the warmer months.
 
Below are my top 10 wardrobe essentials that will add a spring in your step this spring.

 

THE SHIRT

A shirt in blue and white stripe is an incredibly versatile, classic piece. Designed to be oversized, this long-line style in viscose will be sure to get a workout year-round, as it goes together with so much and can be easily added to basics to achieve a smart casual look. Wear one side tucked into a high rise pant or denim skirt, out over a singlet or knotted at the front.
 
Viscose is a regenerated fibre made from wood pulp and is commonly sourced from
fast-growing plants, such as bamboo, which require minimal water and no harsh chemicals to grow.
 
VIKTORIA & WOODS
Priest Shirt



 

THE TANK

The ribbed singlet with round neck and thick piping along the seams is a piece you will see everywhere this season, and in so many fun hues. But there was something a little more playful and special about Cue’s take on this style and it can be worn as often.
 
I have so many clients who don’t want to show their arms, yet we live in Perth with 40+ degree days in the peak of summer so whether you are happy to bare arms or not so comfortable, this is still an essential for you. Just add a light shirt and leave it open and floaty (or blazer for cooler Spring days) and pair with anything high waisted et Voila.
 
CUE
Ribbed Cut Away Tank in Off White



 

THE BLAZER

As the seasons seem to start later and later each year, don’t forget September - November can still bring chilly days and nights. A blazer is essential all year round in my opinion and certainly there is still a place for it in Springtime. I love this lemon colour as it is the perfect hue to feel light and fresh, while giving good silhouette. Chuck it on over the simplest white tee and jeans and you are out the door looking chic and put together.
 
ASSEMBLY LABEL
Daria Wool Tailored Blazer



 

THE TEE

Nothing beats a classic white T-shirt, another essential in your wardrobe year-round. I love this classic cut, and with fibres traced back to Australian farms that support responsible land management (thanks to Country Road’s partnership with Oritain), I am sold.

COUNTRY ROAD
Heritage Embroidered T-shirt


 

THE BAG

There is a reason the crossbody style handbag is a trend that is here to stay, for modern women on the go, having your hands free is essential. A light bag that can carry the necessities in tan leather is a no brainer but still a must have item.

Oroton is the oldest luxury brand in Australia, established in 1938 and while they are now made in China, their sustainable Lane and Elodie collections offer some gorgeous classic and quality accessories you can keep forever. 

OROTON
Elodie Small Day Bag in Brandy



 

THE SET

Matching sets have actually been floating on the fashion periphery for many seasons now, yet this ‘public pjs’ look refuses to take a back-seat this season and variations can be seen everywhere. While it takes a little extra confidence to rock this look, be bold and pair it with chunky gold accessories, statement sandals and a crossbody for day or some sexy stilettos with a bold lip for night. You’ll cut a striking, slinky silhouette and have everyone jealous they didn’t think to make this trend their own essential look of the season.
 
BEC & BRIDGE
Carmen Shirt and Pant in Pistachio



 

THE JEAN

Whether it be a denim skirt, shorts, jacket, shirt or jeans, denim will forever be a wardrobe essential. The most essential of all is a pair of high waisted jeans in thick cotton. Look out for minimal stretch, mostly cotton fabrics that suck you in and are flattering on the tummy. I love white for Spring and every cut Nobody Denim does. I also love what they stand for as a brand.
 
NOBODY DENIM (available at David Jones)
Hardy High Rise Straight Jean



 

THE SANDAL

A statement sandal is an essential every season but this time we are putting more emphasis on the statement and leaning into a chunkier style. With cloud-like comfort in every step, these are a classic you can keep for years to come and will compliment almost everything in your wardrobe.

JO MERCER
Miles Flat Espadrille Sandals in dark tan leather


 

THE SUNNIES

Aje has teamed up with sustainable sunglasses brand Local Supply. Striking a balance between the contemporary and the classic, these sleek Catfarer frames are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. Handcrafted using custom 8mm plant-based Italian cellulose acetate from Mazzucchelli.
 
When you’re done with the frames, trade them in for an exclusive offer on your next local supply purchase using their repair and recycle program.

Aje x Local Supply
Catfarer Sunglasses


 

THE DRESS

This print in bold green is the blast of colour we needed to kick off the season and my love of a shirt dress runs deep. This elegant look with cut-outs in the skirt is perfect to see you through until summer and beyond. Now there is surely not going to be only one dress on rotation in your wardrobe, let’s admit but this is one you can wear again and again. Pair with chunky sandals or a strappy heel for night and you are good to go. This would also be great with low denier hosiery, black ankle boots and a leather jacket for winter but thankfully we don’t have to think about that for a long time to come.
 
Bring on the beautiful sunshine and clear blue skies we are blessed enough to soon take for
granted.
 
VERONIKA MAINE
Clove Print Shirt Dress