ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Every Single Outfit To Wear In May

Even the most die-hard shoppers aren't immune to the occasional bout of "I have nothing to wear" syndrome.
If you've been suffering, you're in luck. We just crafted 17 perfect outfits ideal for late-night strolls, alfresco dinner dates, outdoor weddings, and even the office. The ensembles ahead will have your spring wardrobe coming up roses. Prepare to be cured — at least, for this month.

PinkSweater_collagePhotographed by Mark Iantosca.

1. When Floral Prints & Pastels Meet, We Swoon
A simple sweater-and-pant combo will feel surprisingly fresh this month. Try pairing a cropped, pastel knit with a floral-print pant for a one-way ticket to spring-trend domination. Perfect for chilly mornings that turn into balmy afternoons, this outfit won't weigh you down. Plus, you'll be plenty comfortable amidst temperature fluctuations. Keep your look light with equally playful accessories: two-tone loafers, a straw-woven clutch, and colorful, chandelier earrings. Say bye-bye to your transitional-dressing woes.

AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
Mango Embossed Polka-Dot Sweater, $44.99, available at Mango; Elizabeth and James Bruno Floral-Print Silk Tapered Pants, $295, available at Net-A-Porter; Jil Sander Two-Tone Oxford, $845, available at La Garçonne; Kayu Rachel Straw Clutch, $185, available at Shopbop; Nasty Gal Castilla Earrings, $14, available at Nasty Gal.

2. The Demure Way To Work A Thigh-High Slit

Joseph Altuzarra and his unparalleled love of thigh-high slits are in full force for spring. But, you'd be wrong to assume the designer's signature is only for the red-carpet-bound Angelina Jolies of the world. Rather, the pencil skirts in Altuzarra's resort '14 collection have a demure feel — even with their leg-revealing inseams. Case in point: the doily-print pencil skirt shown here. Teamed with a silk, lace-appliqué blouse and white heels, the outfit is shimmering and sexy, yet still ideal for fancy dinners and cocktail parties. The chic ensemble can be worn to work, too — simply swap the bottom for something similar but slightly more conservative. Top the look off with a sassy strut. Even Angie will be jealous.

Altuzarra_slidePhoto: Courtesy of Altuzarra.
Altuzarra Long Sleeve Open Neck Lace Blouse, $995, available at Marissa Collections; New Look Blue Geo Lace Pencil Skirt, $42, available at New Look; Aldo Servana, $79.98, available at Aldo; Rebecca Minkoff Bailey Hobo, $425, available at Shopbop; Pamela Love Sunburst Gold-Tone Onyx Earrings, $160, available at Net-A-Porter.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT


Like this post? There's more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page!

3. Why Every Closet Could Use Some Neon

Okay, not all of us can break out the short shorts just yet. But, May does generally offer sunny skies and mild temperatures in abundance — and we'll gladly take it. Besides, all of our bright, spring purchases with the tags still attached are begging us to take 'em out for a run. We can't refuse them any longer, and you shouldn't either. Team light-wash denim shorts with a lime-green sweater, citrus-orange satchel, and classic Dr. Martens. Yes, there's a lot of neon happening here, but it'll make you stand out in a good way. If your legs are in need of extra coverage, feel free to swap the bottoms with a pair of boyfriend jeans. And, remember: Your treasured pastels will love you no matter what color you wear.

Neon_collagePhotographed by Mark Iantosca.
Zara Round Neck Sweater, $49.90, available at Zara; Mossimo Cutoff Mid-Rise Shorts, $15, available at Target; Coach Bleecker Preston Satchel in Pebbled Leather, $378, available at Coach; Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Summer Escape Bronzing Powder in Warm Glow, $42.50, available at Elizabeth Arden; Dr. Martens 1460 Worn Broken Boot, $130, available at Urban Outfitters.

4. Rainy-Day Savior: Boyfriend Jeans To The Rescue!

Come rain or shine, our boyfriend jeans are a true closet champ. Whether we're planning an errand run or a laid-back dinner party, our tried-and-true denim is always up for the task — even on rainy days when none of our other clothes feel like venturing outside dresser drawers. So, when wet weather is in the forecast, we figure it's best to have a few standby outfits on deck featuring this soggy-day savior. An oversized, printed tunic and a varsity jacket fine-tune the look. Team with a few choice accessories — like quirky studs, metallic sandals, and a miniature crossbody — for a refined ensemble that's totally worthy of a street-style snap. (P.S. Swap the sandals for colorful sneakers if large puddles try to dampen your shoe game.)

AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
jeanoutfit_collagePhotographed by Victoria Adamson.
Zara Printed Blouse, $69.90, available at Zara; rag & bone/JEAN Shredded Boyfriend Jean, $268, available at Intermix; frieda&nellie Electric Bombay Disco Earrings, $96, available at frieda&nellie; Opening Ceremony OC Exclusive Varsity Jacket, $365, available at Opening Ceremony; Prada Metallic Leather Platform Wedge Sandals, $490, available at Saks Fifth Avenue; Forever 21 Sophisticate Structured Crossbody, $16.80, available at Forever 21.

5. THIS Is How You Do Alfresco Dining

It may be difficult to believe after this past winter, but outdoor dinners, garden parties, and beach barbecues will soon become a part of our lives once more — rejoice! And, come warm weather, we'll use just about any excuse to enjoy our meals outside. If the occasion happens to justify a fresh, new outfit...well, even better. Here's an ensemble made for relaxing with an Aperol Spritz and E.V.O.O.-drizzled bruschetta — straight off Nonoo's S/S '14 runway. A relaxed-silhouette polo, pastel pencil skirt, and chic boater hat are all you need to recreate the look. Finish with quirky, blue nails and snakeskin flats, and you'll be fit to dine on a sidewalk in full view of passersby or on any number of Brooklyn rooftops — as long as they don't require a ladder to access.

NoNoo_slidePhoto: Courtesy of Nonoo.
Zara Organza Polo Shirt, $59.90, available at Zara; Nonoo Sugar Snap Silk Surreal Skirt $495, available at Avenue 32; Nails Inc. Nail Polish in Chelsea Physic Garden, $9.50, available at Macy's; Vince Nina Snakeskin Two-Piece Skimmer, $217, available at Neiman Marcus; Eugenia Kim Brigitte Boater Hat, $340, available at Eugenia Kim.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT


Like this post? There's more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page!

6. How To Hack Solange's Casual Travel Style

Leave it to Solange Knowles to turn a casual airport outfit into a statement ensemble. While our pre-flight routine usually just involves schlepping between terminals or rushing to our gate, that simply won't do for Ms. Knowles. Spotted en route to Coachella, the singer schooled travelers everywhere in laid-back chic when she made a basic, black tee and leggings snap-worthy by pairing them with a few colorful accessories. Although Solange accented her look with a bubblegum-pink coat and a pair of neon green sneakers, any bright colors will do the trick. Comfortable and stylish? This is what we call a sartorial win-win.

Solange_collagePhoto: RA/PacificCoastNews.
Kenzo Double-Faced Tech-Suiting Coat, $1,221, available at MatchesFashion.com; Saucony Two-Tone Sneakers, $131.18, available at Farfetch; Zara Slim Leggings, $25.90, available at Zara; American Eagle Favorite V-Neck Pocket T-Shirt, $12.50, available at American Eagle; Topshop 'Mimi Revo' Round Sunglasses, $24, available at Nordstrom; Louis Vuitton Zéphyr 70 Trolley Case, $4,650, available at Louis Vuitton.


Like this post? There's more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page!

7. This Tennis Sweater Is Your Wardrobe's Match Point

Watching Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova duke it out on the court is mesmerizing — swishing rackets, zooming tennis balls, and pleated skirts abound. But, even though we love the game, we'd be lying if we said that admiring the fashion isn't half the fun. Well, there's nothing stopping you from donning the preppy look, too. Behold, rag & bone's exaggerated-V-neck sweater, the prettiest approach to sporty chic. When you pair the style with a two-tone pencil skirt and white mules, you'll score extra points for also nailing the monochrome trend. Finish with a bold, citrus-colored lip for a getup that says, "Game on."

AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
Slide (2)Photo: Courtesy of rag & bone.
rag & bone Cotton V-Neck Pullover, $395, available at Stylebop; Zara Pencil Skirt with Pleated Hem, $59.90, available at Zara; Coach Mackenzie Heel, $428, available at Coach; Loeffler Randall Zip Wallet, $125, available at Loeffler Randall; Guerlain Rouge Automatique in Coque D’Or 120, $36, available at Sephora.


Like this post? There's more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page!

8. The Graphic Sweatshirt Does Girly Real Good

Lately, we've taken to pairing our graphic sweatshirts with just about everything. Wherever we go, so do our trusty knits. They add an instantly sporty touch to our outfits but still have an air of chicness that our actual gym wear likely does not. This is great for situations when we need to look good, but all we really care about is comfort. House of Holland's spring '14 lace-appliquéd jersey top is one such example of a knit doing just that. Layered over a collared button-down and paired with a lace skirt and single-strap heels, it's the epitome of feminine without feeling too prim and proper. Plus, it's spring — and we're definitely not ones to turn down floral anything.

Slide (1)Photo: Courtesy of House of Holland.
House of Holland Lace-Appliquéd Cotton-Jersey Top, $265, available at Net-A-Porter; Debenhams Navy Lace Tailored Skirt, $132.21, available at Debenhams; John Lewis Maria Bib Front Shirt, $58.57, available at John Lewis; Carvela Glacier Pink Heeled Sandals, $188.14, available at ASOS; Bing Bang Vivienne Spike Studs, $48, available at Bing Bang.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT

9. Cara Delevingne & A Button-Down Make A Badass Pairing

No, unfastening your button-downs to your navel (à la Cara Delevingne) will not work for professional settings, but there's no reason your 9-to-5 wares can't play hooky from the office every now and then. We all do it, so why not let our workwear in on the action, too? Plus, everything you need to recreate Delevingne's style is likely already living in your closet — though, we wouldn't blame you if you added Reiss' white, waffle-texture suit to your wardrobe. As for the blouse, any black oxford will do the trick. Pair with open-toe booties and an edgy ear cuff to finish off your badass look. All that's left now is to perfect your captivating stare.

slide1 (1)Photo: Richard Young/REX USA.
Uniqlo Premium Linen Sleeveless Shirt, $29.90, available at Uniqlo; Reiss Cuba Waffle Texture Jacket, $425, available at Reiss; Reiss Olivia Waffle Texture Trousers, $230, available at Reiss; House of Harlow Rilie Bootie, $225, available at House of Harlow; Rebecca Minkoff Mirror Ear Cuff, $78, available at Rebecca Minkoff; ASOS Faux Fur Clutch, $23.52, available at ASOS.
10. A Work Outfit That's A Lil' Bit Of Play, Too We all know that plain, white button-downs and navy pants are safe, no-brainer options for the office. They'll work any day of the week — and any time of the year, for that matter. But, that doesn't mean you can't have a little fun here and there with your 9-to-5 attire. Try layering these staples with a short-sleeved, variegated-stripe top — like this style from Thakoon Addition's spring '14 line — for extra (and slightly nautical) interest, which is perfect for the impending warm weather. The addition of small, spiky studs and open-toe oxfords will provide a bit of edge without overstepping the limits of your work place's dress code. Altogether, it's an outfit that will garner tons of compliments no matter where you wear it.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
ThakoonAddition_collagePhoto: Courtesy of Thakoon Addition.
Thakoon Addition Variegated-Stripe Top, $300, available at Moda Operandi; Gap Roll-Sleeve Henley, $32.99, available at Gap; Zara Seamed Trousers, $59.90, available at Zara; Marc by Marc Jacobs Crackled Leather Open-Toe Oxfords, $348, available at Saks Fifth Avenue; H&M Handbag $24.95, available at H&M; Collette Ishiyama Saber Studs, $90, available at Collete Ishiyama.

11. The Only Color You Need This Weekend

Orange is a wildly versatile hue. It can work magic on your lips. It can halt traffic (even if you do occasionally run over those pesky cones). And, it can make a more classic-feeling ensemble instantly sexy and fresh (yes, more than fruit). So, it’s no wonder we’re completely enamored with this stunner from Dior’s resort ’14 collection. Equal parts flirty-cool and sports-inspired, the citrusy bandeau paired with kookier accessories makes the overarching black-and-white vibe come alive. And, it serves as primo copy material when prepping our weekend looks. Because, you know that same black dress has just had it, right?

Dior_collage1Photo: Courtesy of Dior.
Topshop Textured Cut Out Shirt, $64, available at Topshop; J.Crew Italian Matte Tipped Bandeau Top, $48, available at J.Crew; Gap True Straight Pants, $35.97, available at Gap; Sophia Webster Ida Neon Patent-Leather T-Bar Pumps, $390, available at Net-A-Porter; Buxom Full Bodied Lipstick in Exhibitionist, $21, available at Sephora; Dior Metaleyes1 Sunglasses, price upon request, available at retail Dior locations; Marc Jacobs The 1984 Patchwork Mixed-Media Satchel, $1,995, available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT


Like this post? There's more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page!

12. Rebecca Taylor Gives The Sporty Trend A Ladylike Touch
Though she's known for her ultra-feminine clothes, even Rebecca Taylor has given her spring wares a sporty flair this season. From Wang to Lim to [insert designer name here], the popular athletic trend is a style that keeps on giving. So, it's refreshing to see it take on a ladylike vibe — sans sneakers, sweatshirts, or the like. Taylor's blush-pink blazer, mesh-type tee, and bohemian-esque boyfriend jeans are essentially your new (and improved) denim-and-jacket pairing. Finish with metallic sandals and a pretty satchel for a laid-back and effortless style you can wear out shopping, to drinks, or even to work, if your company keeps a relaxed dress code. Yep, it's an outfit you'll happily sport everywhere.

RebeccaTaylor_colalgePhoto: MCV Photo.
Rebecca Taylor Double Breasted Jacket, $425, available at Rebecca Taylor; Goldsign for J.Crew Stevie Jean, $268, available at J.Crew; Topshop Burnout Spot Tee, $52, available at Topshop; Banana Republic Annabele Satchel, $148.50, available at Banana Republic; Deena & Ozzy Treaded Cross-Strap Sandal $49, available at Urban Outfitters.

13. Opening Ceremony's Very Tempting Argument Against LBDs
Yes, our trusty LBD is conveniently stored in our closets for easy access. But, no, we will not be resurrecting this tried-and-true number for dinner and drinks yet again this weekend. Now that spring is beginning to take root, we're punching up our wardrobe's color profile, and this zippy Opening Ceremony getup is pretty fetching, don't you think? The reds, the blues, the glitter! This is one sartorial sweet spot we most definitely want to hit in the coming months as we take on those gallery openings or fancy dinners. Pair your optical skirt with a cherry-red blouse, standout accessories — like these Wanderluster earrings and sparkly Anya Hindmarch clutch — and, perhaps, an unexpected-but-totally-chic nail hue, too. Hello, color!

AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
OpeningCeremony_collagePhoto: MCV Photo.
Zara Loose Fit Blouse, $69.90, available at Zara; Opening Ceremony Knee-Length Skirt, $548, available at The Corner; Wanderluster Sequoias Earrings, $85, available at Wanderluster; Joie Jaclyn Heels, $295, available at Joie; Illamasqua Rubber Finish Nail Varnish, $17, available at Sephora; Anya Hindmarch Silver Glitter Fabric Valorie Clutch, $550, available at Stylebop.
14. The Cool-Girl Accessories Your Tank-Top Outfit Needs Okay, so, a tank top and cargo pants aren’t pieces that generally warrant much fashion praise. But, a few clever accessory swaps — basically, ditch the hoodie and sneakers — will breathe new life into these tried-and-true basics. Take Elizabeth and James' understated spring ’14 collection: A heather-gray sleeveless tee and army-green skinnies feel instantly cooler paired with an oversized choker, sexy black heels, and a perforated backpack. It’s too simple to fail and probably something you already own, which is why we recommend giving this look a try for the warm weather ahead.
EJ_collagePhoto: Courtesy of Elizabeth and James.
Uniqlo Supima Cotton Sleeveless Top, $9.90, available at Uniqlo; TNA Steen Pant, $95, available at Aritzia; Elizabeth and James Cynnie Perforated Sling Backpack, $595, available at Saks Fifth Avenue; Forever 21 Sparkle and Shine Chain Necklace $9.80, available at Forever 21; Loeffler Randall Lillit Kitten Heel Sandal, $295, available at Loeffler Randall.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
15. A Pretty, Printed Bomber You'll Want To Wear Everywhere A great spring jacket is essentially the holy grail of transitional-weather dressing. Okay, okay, maybe that's a bit of an overstatement, but hear us out. As milder temperatures slowly become the norm, our heavier coats simply don't cut it anymore. But, going outside sans topper isn't too peachy either. So, happening upon a perfect-weight jacket in a style we love is reason enough to be excited: This pretty, printed bomber from Mother of Pearl's spring '14 collection is on another level. Style it with cropped, pastel pants; a pajama-style button-down; and pink, pointed flats — now we've got a look we'll definitely wear for casual Friday this week.
MotherOfPearl_collagePhoto: Courtesy of Mother of Pearl.
Mother of Pearl Alph Printed Sateen Bomber Jacket, $1,210, available at Net-A-Porter; Talula Los Feliz Pant, $65, available at Aritzia; Anne Klein Glass Pearl Drop Clip Earrings, $24, similar style available at Nordstrom; New Look White Short Sleeve Boxy Shirt, $24.95, available at New Look; Whistles Lorna Flat Point Slingback, $190, available at Whistles.
16. A Pajama-Inspired Outfit That Isn't Totally Crazy While you might want to refrain from wearing your actual PJs outside of your apartment (though, who are we to stop you?), there's no denying the pajama-dressing trend is still going strong this season — if not gaining steam. The unlikely, but enduring, style has become a fixture on the runway — relaxed silhouettes, silky fabrics, and all. And, we're especially into Rochas' spring '14 collection, loaded with vacation-friendly outfits that spell out summertime ease. But, if you're strapped for cash, remember that dressing in the image of this renowned French fashion house doesn't have to deplete your bank account. Shop more affordable options, like Dorothy Perkins' wide-legged trousers and Topshop's cutout slippers, and then splurge on a real-deal tote if you've got funds to spare. It's a look that's comfy and totally cool.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
Rochas_collagePhoto: Courtesy of Rochas.
Sandro Printed Pajama Shirt, $375, available at Sandro; Dorothy Perkins Crepe Palazzo Trousers, $39, available at Dorothy Perkins; Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Peach, $25, available at Sephora; Rochas Leather Star Tote, $1,290, available at Shopbop; Topshop Cut Out Slippers, $45, available at Topshop.

17. The Mint Midi We Need In Our Closets

Mint is, perhaps, spring's most crush-worthy pastel. The combination of the on-trend hue with an equally popular hem length, like in this alice + olivia style, delivers a pretty, feminine note — though there's just a touch of edginess to the piece, courtesy of the skirt's super-buttery leather. It's no surprise that creative director Stacey Bendet would dream up such a style. The brand's signature, girly silhouettes are what keep us wanting more, season after season. And, Jamie Chung's flirty cocktail outfit looks to be a total scene-stealer for any number of spring fetes, summer weddings, or fancy dinner dates. Pair it with a basic crop top, nude sandals, and a punchy, green clutch — now you've got all the tools you'll need to wow.

JamieChung_collagePhoto: MediaPunch Inc/REX USA.
Talula Dalston T-Shirt, $25, available at Aritzia; alice + olivia Daven Leather Center Pleat Long Skirt, $1,210, available at alice + olivia; M Missoni Raffia Effect Clutch, $421.58, available at Farfetch; Steven Nuvess Ankle Strap Sandals $109, available at Shopbop; Pixie Market Tortoise Shell Round Sunglasses, $16, available at Pixie Market.

More from Shopping

ADVERTISEMENT