Is anyone else dying for al fresco dining season to return? It seems like March is always a cold weather month, but after those 70 degree tease days we had in February, I’m pretty much over temperatures under 55 degrees. Luckily, I’m escaping to New Orleans this weekend where the upcoming forecast looks sunny and 75. I can’t wait until that weather finds us here in the Mid-Atlantic!

Unsurprisingly, when I shot this look in New York City two weeks ago, it was no where near 75, let alone 55. I believe the mercury topped out at around 45 that afternoon, so this shoot was essentially a recreation of what I imagine Gossip Girl to be like—the “talent,” in this case, me, wearing heavy winter coats until the absolute last minute, at which point they say a silent prayer their pink hands or facial expressions don’t give the brutal cold away. Even though it was windy and freezing—weather that I deemed perfect for perforated flats—I’m glad I sucked it up because I get to share a few of my favorite pieces for when the spring weather actually does decide to roll around. Plus, it gave me and Emma a good excuse to wander around the streets of the Upper East Side to scope out our future real estate holdings.

(Emma also held all my bags and my heavy winter jacket while standing in 40-degree windy weather, so really, she’s the MVP of this post.)

I used to shop all the time at J Crew Factory, but haven’t been that impressed lately with the quality or design of their clothes. I’m sure part of it is that my style has shifted some over the years, too. However, when I saw this Asymmetrical Ruffle-Front Top for under $30, I knew it was the perfect twist on the classic stripe tee, and would make for a great casual Friday or weekend shirt. I opted for navy, but it also comes in black. It’s mostly sold out online, however, definitely give your local Factory or Mercantile store a call to see if they have it before giving up hope. I found it runs true-to-size and opted for a medium.

I bought this army green Abercrombie Shirt Jacket last season—similar here and here—for my trip to San Francisco in the fall, and I’ve been surprised at how versatile it is. I love it with a top and jeans like I’ve styled here, but it also looks so cute layered over dresses. I hadn’t shopped at Abercrombie in years, but this piece was just too good to pass up when I saw it. It’s definitely not the warmest jacket, but it does help cut some wind and would be perfect for a 60-degree day when you just want a light jacket. I bought a large because, Abercrombie, and so it wouldn’t be too tight over long-sleeves.

I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect white jeans, so I gave these Old Navy Mid-Rise Rockstar White Jeans a try since I love the black ones so much. Jury is still out—they’re a bit too stretchy for me and don’t hold their shape well over the course of the day. I’m thinking if I go down a size, that might help. Disappointing considering how much I love their black jeans, but since I only paid $22 for them, it’s not a huge loss.

Here’s to warmer days ahead where it’s not too hot, not too cold, and all we need is a light jacket!

*** SHOP THE POST ***
J Crew Factory Asymmetrical Ruffle-Front Top
Old Navy Mid-Rise Rockstar White Jeans
French Sole Vandalay Flats c/o
Abercrombie Shirt Jacket—last season, similar here and here
Baublebar Mya Drop Earrings
J Crew Factory Envelope Clutch—old, similar here and here
BP 55mm Mirrored Sunglasses

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Photos by Carter Fish