Even though I work in fashion and thoughts of trends and shopping occupy a large portion of my brain, I, too, can get overwhelmed by which trends to spend my money on each season. I can't buy them all, so picking and choosing among the offerings is necessary, as difficult as it may be. When I'm intrigued enough to try a trend but want to play it safe, I try to seek out pieces that are subtle, easy-to-wear takes on it.
Of all the spring and summer trends that are currently circling me, there are 10, in particular, that I think are worth trying, but I want to play it safe with them, although some of these trends are inherently "safe." (Side note: Some of these trends aren't brand-new, but they're quickly rising in popularity this season or may be new to you.) When I say jumping-off items, I mean versatile pieces that aren't that far from the basics we all wear regularly, so you really can't go wrong with them. I selected three pieces for each of the 10 trends that fit that criteria. Keep scrolling to shop them while they're still in stock.
Cigarette Pants
A simple, elegant take on the trend for a very good price.
Given how well Aritzia does basics, I know these are going to be good.
I plan to pair these with pastels for the entirety of spring.
Technical Jackets
This black windbreaker from every fashion person's favorite sporty merch brand is incredibly classic (as in, easy to wear).
This minimalistic take on the trend is the perfect transitional piece.
This would honestly look good with everything from leggings to a miniskirt.
Patent-Leather Flats
This is the shoe shape all the fashion girlies are wearing.
As easy to wear as ballet flats but far more interesting.
You can't go wrong with the loafer version of any trend.
Flared Jeans
This subtly flared pair has a cool, effortless look.
Of course, Madewell made the easiest-to-wear take on the flared-jeans trend imaginable.
This Frame pair gets rave reviews, and the faded-black wash would be a smart addition to any denim collection.
Knee-Length Skirts
So many of our editors own this pretty slip skirt in several colors.
If it's a knee-length pencil skirt you want, this one is pretty much flawless.
This '90s-inspired skirt just needs a T-shirt, tank, or cardigan, and you're done.
Zebra Print
These zebra sandals are the perfect way to dip a toe into the trend.
Start by styling this with a simple T-shirt or sweater.
I think this is going to go with more outfits than you even realize.
Butter Yellow
Not only is this pretty draped dress comfortable, but you can also dress it up with heels and down with sneakers or flat sandals.
I'm guessing you're questioning how yellow jeans are considered a jumping-off item, but trust me—these are incredibly wearable and elevated.
You'll reach for this timeless pale-yellow top time and again this spring and summer.
Bloomer Shorts
I own this pair and find them to be the perfect length. (For reference, I'm 5'4".)
I love the preppy feel of this elevated pair.
Swap your usual neutral-colored shorts for this prettier pair.
Tailored Blazers
It doesn't get more flattering than Aritzia's cinch-waist blazer, and the color is so good for spring.
Thanks in part to the covered buttons, this collarless blazer looks far more expensive than it is.
Fashion people and celebrities are huge fans of this blazer. Pair it with straight-leg jeans and kitten heels for an easy outfit.
Peep-Toe Shoes
I already own these and have so many outfits in mind to wear them with.
Tory Burch turned its wildly popular Pierced flats into slingback heels, and I have no notes.
These are a splurge, but they're very much a timeless version of the trend and will get lots of wear over the years.
-
I'm Not a Fan of Showing My Arms—40 Incredibly Chic Summer Finds That Keep Them CoveredOne less thing to think about.
-
This Is the Skirt Fashion People Are Going to Be Wearing for the Next 3 MonthsHere's how to style yours.
-
32 Affordable Ashley Olsen Coded Picks That I Have My Eye on for SummerEffortless, luxe, and incredibly chic.
-
I Proved It—Everyone Thinks These 39 Old Navy, Gap, and Zara Items Are DesignerRun and swipe.
-
10 Mini Trends Everyone Is Already Wearing This SummerAre you?
-
No Need to Look Anywhere Else—These 36 Revolve Summer Accessories Are All You Really NeedIncluding pretty jewelry, colorful headscarves, and chic sunglasses.
-
8 Pieces That Are the Secret Sauce to an Incredibly Chic Summer Outfit RotationGetting ready just got so much easier.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara,Replica Store, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
