'Springtime Classics cont.'

Before I get distracted by yet another sale, let me return to my springtime essentials list. From Breton striped shirts, pleated skirts and chambray button-downs, turn your clocks forward with the help of some key spring wardrobe basics.

Jules et Jim

If you’ve ever seen the iconic film “Jules et Jim” in French class, you might have seen the delicious Jeanne Moreau (the object of affection between characters Jules and Jim) donning a striped shirt. The classic shirt hails back to Bretagne (aka Brittany), the northwest province of France and region known for its maritime trade. Sailors from Brittany could often be distinguished by their uniform – which consisted of a striped navy shirt.

Nowadays, the Breton classic can be layered over a delicate feminine skirt, or over a pair of boyfriend jeans depending on the occasion. As for me, I might wear a Breton striped sweater over a collared, button-down shirt with some trousers and a comfy pair of Oxford shoes.

Pleated skirt as seen during NYC Fashion Week

The pleated skirt is no longer a thing of your private school past. Thank the hit series “Gossip Girl” or the catwalk revival of the fifties for its return. Printed and short, it makes a flirty addition to dinner with the boyfriend or hubby. Long and solid, it is an understated foundation piece to go with a print blouse (see photo above) or fitted cardigan. Style tip: Pair this schoolgirl classic with a pair of lace-up booties and a long, light knit sweater, leaving just the ends of the skirt showing.

Chambray shirt at Madewell

Make the most of the working class chambray shirt. Never have I been able to pair one single shirt with so many looks: over trousers; worn loose with jeans; over a simple dress; tucked into a floral skirt; with a T-shirt and pants. Its endless possibilities are what make the chambray shirt such a hit this season. I imagine it’ll be here to stay for at least a few more.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of iseestripes.blogspot.com; elle.com; madewell.com