Rebuild Your Wardrobe From Scratch With 10 Closet Essentials Trending This Spring
Spring is upon us and with this time of year comes the annual closet cleanout we so desperately need and collectively look forward to. Despite freezing cold temperatures and endless rain, winter weather is slowly fading away and it's time we clear out what no longer serves us both in life and in our closets. A symbol of new beginnings and transformations, the shift in seasons is the perfect time to declutter our space while releasing the old to welcome the new.
During the process of evaluating our wardrobes, we determine what we can live without while looking forward to what it is we truly need. As we reintroduce boldly enticing fashion predicted by spring runway collections, it’s smart to start with a foundation of neutral staples to be mixed and matched with serotonin-releasing statement items some of us so desperately live for.
Each season there are new styles and designs and with the overload of viral trends, it's easy to become influenced by an endless cycle of forgettable “must-haves.” To help get you started on your most stylish season ever, we’ve curated a list of 10 trending items you can mix and match daily to achieve a perfectly balanced chic and classic fashion-forward wardrobe.
1.White Tank Top
The must-have ribbed white tank is the number one staple everyone needs in their spring and summer wardrobe. Perfectly paired with denim, soft trousers, maxi skirts, and more, the combinations are indeed endless. A ribbed tank is relatively inexpensive even with a quality find that provides plenty of wear and durability. For a trend-forward look, wear a maxi cargo skirt, neutral-colored sneakers, and pearl accessories for an everyday casual outfit.
2.Denim Maxi Skirt
As mentioned above, a maxi skirt is a great pairing for a fashion-forward casual outfit idea. Denim maxis have re-emerged as one of the most viral trends sweeping social media. The 2000s era trend is extremely versatile, being dressed up or down depending on one's mood and activities for the day. Dress down a denim maxi skirt with sneakers and a casual white top for everyday errands or dress it up with a sleek heel, cut-out top, and moto jacket for an elevated modern take on the trend.
3.Straight Leg Denim
The answer to the viral debate about whether or not skinny jeans are back is the straight-leg denim trend. Slowly taking over as this season's most wanted silhouette, the updated skinny jean is slim but less form-fitting, perfect for a boot or sneaker. With a range of washes from light blue to indigo, the slim-leg denim trend is here to stay.
4.Statement Jewelry
Gone are the days of minimal jewelry, we’ve had enough of that thanks to the pandemic. This year is all about going bold as accessories can elevate the most basic outfit tremendously. Silver is forcing its way back into the mainstream jewelry trends with women who once laughed at the idea of ever adorning the metal experiencing a drastic change of heart. If not wearable art, it's stackable jewelry with the chunkier being the better. If you’re not ready to give up the minimal look, add in a statement necklace layered with minimal chains and hoop earrings to achieve an effortless cool girl look.
5.Loafers
If you’re a chunky boot lover, loafers are the perfect swap for warm weather. Style with chunky socks when wearing a skirt or slip into a classic pair with oversized long-length low-rise jeans. Loafers have seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the past year and there’s no slowing down on the trend.
6.Oversized Sunglasses
Nothing about this year is about blending in or being subtle which is why designer frames from Loewe, Gucci, and Tom Ford are setting the standard on 2023 eyewear. Just like most accessories, frames are bigger and bolder than we’ve seen in the last 10 years thanks to the aviator trend making a solid comeback for spring. Oversized sunnies with face-shaping silhouettes are even better with daring colors and contrasting tints to make a stylish statement this coming season.
7.Shoulder Bag
There's something about the shoulder bag that has captivated the fashion world more recently. It's small yet conveniently fits all necessities with a limitless range of colors, shapes, and patterns to match any look. It’s also the perfect balance between the quick-fading fad of the micro mini and the oversized tote. If looking for a classic designer purchase for spring, its size and shape will be worth the investment as this silhouette will never go out of style.
8.Maxi Tube Dress
A classy addition to this year's trends, the 90’s era tube dress is back on the “It List” for spring. The strapless design is chicly versatile with a range of looks to be achieved. From the office paired with a blazer and a boot or a weekend outing with sexy sleek heels, this is an item you’ll want to wear all summer. Opt for a cotton/spandex mixed material as a comfortable choice for an everyday look or a vegan leather for an effortlessly high fashion moment.
9.Button-Down Long Sleeve
The button-down long sleeve is one of the most loved closet essentials. The versatility is unmatched and the price is unbeatable for the amount of wear one can achieve in this staple piece. Worn open, closed, layered underneath a corset, or wrapped around one's waist, there's more than enough reason to benefit from owning a crisp white button-down top. Pair with leggings and heels for a casual chic moment layered with statement accessories for a classic spring look.
10. Dad Trouser
Trousers are a great option for women who love to stretch the limit of chic workwear. The "Dad Pant" is a classic tailored aesthetic with a high-rise fitted waist and extra long hem, a length perfect for high heels, sneakers, or chunky sandals. Opting for lightweight fabric is also perfect for year-round temperatures. Wear long trousers with a fitted white top, and an oversized black or beige blazer with pointed-toe heels for a sophisticated look day or night.
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These Newlyweds Found Love Thanks To A Friend Playing Matchmaker
How We Met is a series where xoNecole talks love and relationships with real-life couples. We learn how they met, how like turned into love, and how they make their love work.
Jason and Elise Robinson’s union is a reminder that kind people still get their happily ever after. The pair had their first date in October of 2021 and tied the knot on June 15, 2024. Both of them have dedicated their lives to celebrating and supporting Black culture so it was only fitting they get married in what's considered the Black Hollywood of America during the Juneteenth celebration weekend. From the florists to Elise and Jason's gown and suit designers to the table signage and so much more, everything was Black-owned. It's no wonder their love for Black culture was the jumping-off point for their love story.
When they met, Jason had just moved to Atlanta for a new job opportunity, and Elise was living happily in her career and had put dating on the backburner. But luckily, a mutual connection saw something in both of them and thanks to a yoga-themed baby shower and a chance text message, they found their forever. Check out their beautiful How We Met story below.
I’ll start with the easiest question. Can you both tell me a little bit about yourself and your background?
Elise: Sure, my name is Elise. I’m actually from Atlanta, GA – not a transplant. I grew up here and left right after college to pursue my career. Now I’ve been back going on eight years, and I’m in my early 40s.
Jason: And I’m Jason. I’m originally from Racine, Wisconsin. I went to school at Florida A&M University, so I am a rattler. I went back to the Midwest for a period of time, in Indianapolis. Now, I’ve been in the Atlanta area for a little over two and a half years.
Jason and Elise Robinson
Photo by FotosbyFola
Wow, that’s nice because Atlanta gets a bad rap when it comes to relationships. So you have to give us the deets. How did you two find each other?
Elise: So I work in TV and I was on-air for a number of years and then transitioned into being a producer and then a manager. As a producer, I’d always have guests on. And there was a woman who came on frequently named Rosalynn (@Rosalynndaniels, often referred to as The Black Martha Stewart), and we connected instantly. Anyway, she got pregnant right before COVID and invited me to a “modern-day yoga baby shower.” I came to support, but was also just curious about that theme.
I had an amazing time. And when it was over a few of us stuck around and convos got personal. She ended up asking me the infamous ‘Are you dating’ question. When I told her no, she decided to set me up. So I should tell you, in both of my only two serious relationships, I was set up – so I was like no.
But she pointed at her husband, who was folding up chairs, and said that another friend set her up with him. Sometimes, it takes people outside of us to see what we need. A few months later, she reached out and said she had family relocating and thought I’d really like him. So she gave him my number, and I reached out with a text. He responded with a call, and that night, we talked for about 2-3 hours. So that’s how we met. I was a little nervous because me and Rosalynn were starting a friendship, and here I was, talking to her family!
Jason: It was new for me too. Remember, I was new to the area, and I had heard so many “stories” about how people have been done wrong in the dating world. Whether it’s by theft or scamming (laughs). Plus, I had just got a new job and wanted to focus on that. But I did want to be able to date someone in a more personal way and see where it led. I felt like who better than someone who I trust to connect me. Rosalynn knows I’m private, about business life, and my personal life is important to me.
So let’s get into your courtship. What was your first date like?
Elise: We had our first convo on a Monday, and he asked me out the next day. I didn’t have any plans, but I still said no. I was just playing hard to get (laughs). But we were talking every day, and he told me he wanted to take me somewhere I’ve never been. And I’m like, you’re in my city! But he sends me three options, and sure enough, two of the places I hadn’t gone to. So, our first date was October 1, 2021, and somebody was 45 minutes late.
Now Jason, why were you 45 minutes late?
Elise: It was me – in my own city. I just got turned around, and the traffic was horrible. I kept calling him and giving him permission to leave. Full transparency: I probably wouldn’t have waited if the shoe was on the other foot. But this was my first sign of what I now know and love the most about him. It’s his patience. When I got there, I was frazzled and everything, but he was just super calm. It ended up being a great first date.
Jason: I remember just waiting and being concerned for her well-being. Because I know how traffic can be, especially when someone is rushing. I was just scrolling through my phone and looking through the menu. It was cool.
Elise and Jason Robinson
Courtesy
That’s beautiful. Now let’s talk about the “what are we” convo? Did you have one of those and if so, who initiated it and how was it?
Elise: I initiated it. Jason was dating me – and still does. But by this time, we had been on a number of dates. We were on our way to a winery, and we had a bit of a drive. So I decided to state my intention. We were just a few weeks in, but we were spending a lot of time together and we are people of a particular age. So I told him, I know Atlanta can be a Black man’s playground. There’s so many beautiful professional women here. But I’m dating with intention. I don’t want to kick it or hang with a good guy even though he’s not my person. I was done with all of that. So I’m “laying down the law” in my eyes, and he didn’t flinch. He let me finish and basically let me know we were on the same page. He was not trying to sow his royal oats.
Jason: Yeah, I was not trying to be Prince Akeem. But also, it was more so about setting a tone and goal for myself. My mama always told me to set my goals. And having a family was always one of mine. I think the biggest thing of it all, was I felt blessed – in terms of moving for work and meeting Elise, now being married. There’s victories being placed in my life.
I love that you both shared that because sometimes I get feedback on these stories and it seems like sometimes we’re afraid to really voice what we desire, no matter what that looks like.
Elise: Yeah, I think sometimes women feel like they don’t want to put pressure on their partner. But it’s not pressure. Look, Jason and I are based in faith, and what is for us is for us. Being upfront and honest is best – and early makes sense. You don’t have to convince someone to be your person.
Jason: I think her sharing those values resonated with me, and hearing her “lay down the law” was fine because I was there, too. I would say to millennial women, don’t be afraid to tell a mate what you want. You never know what that would lead to. Time is a precious commodity. Elise saying that early on showed me that she values both of our time. It showed her heart, character, and integrity, and I was drawn to that and the mature conversation. In the social media world, we don’t have those pointed conversations face-to-face. I would challenge readers to have those conversations in person, and you would get more from that convo than any post or reel. Because you see body language reactions and have deeper communication.
Yeah, I think sometimes women feel like they don’t want to put pressure on their partner. But it’s not pressure. Look, Jason and I are based in faith, and what is for us is for us. Being upfront and honest is best – and early makes sense. You don’t have to convince someone to be your person.
You both have mentioned time, family, and integrity. I’m curious what other core values do you both share?
Elise: Early on, our faith. Not just do you believe in God. It had to be deeper in that. I needed someone who would lead me, our home, and our family. I didn’t want to be in a push-and-pull relationship about prayer, church, or have conversations about being better people. Also, we discussed finances. That doesn’t just mean going to work. We chatted about ownership and what it looks like for us. How do we support each other individually and together? I know I like having my hands in a few different pots, and I needed someone who was supportive of that and likewise.
Jason: My background is that I was raised in the church. My father is a deacon and my mom is a deaconess. They've been married for 55 years. Faith was very important to me and it was crucial that my wife have that relationship as well.
Elise and Jason Robinson
Photo by FotosbyFola
Can we talk about challenges? Big or small, what are some things you had to grow through together?
Elise: I have never lived with anyone – not a roommate, a sister, friend, boyfriend or anything. Now, I’m in my 40s and I'm living with someone. When you’ve been by yourself for so long that was a challenge for both of us. We weren’t pulling each other's hair out but I’m a bit extreme. Things are color-coded in my closet. For me, working in news is chaotic so I want my home to be peaceful and organized.
Jason: I’m a man, and she’s a woman. That dynamic alone adds a flair to it. She wants things a certain way. She’s a Capricorn. But just in terms of how she wants to keep a home was a big adjustment for me. It took time.
On a smaller level, what are some of the things you disagree about day-to-day?
Elise: Cleanliness and systems. Like, he recycles and I do not. But sometimes I just have to decide if it really needs to be a thing or if I can just take care of it.
Jason: This is where my organization takes over (laughs).
What are your love languages? Do you know?
Elise: Jason’s is an act of service which works because I love cooking for him. It doesn’t feel like a chore to me. I love when I’m out, picking up his favorite juice. The other day I saw he needed t-shirts while folding clothes. So I just like doing small things for him that he doesn’t expect. He’s very much that guy that will ask to help so it doesn’t bother me.
Jason: I’d say Elise is all of them, but physical touch would probably be the biggest one. I had to get used to that. She’s taught me it in a number of ways. I remember we actually talked about love languages, and I sent her this song called “More Than Words” by Extreme. That explained to her how I felt.
Finally, can we end with the proposal? Tell us everything!
Jason: It was at a restaurant. And again, I was trying to find somewhere she hadn’t been. Also, I didn’t want to do it on our anniversary because that would have been too obvious. I contacted one of the restaurant’s staff and decided to change up the dessert menu. Each item was something special to us.
Elise: We go on so many date nights, so I just thought it was a regular night. We had finished eating, and I had to go to the bathroom. They had a nice mirror, girl. So I’m in there taking videos and stuff.
Jason: While she’s in the restroom, I’m getting everything in place with the waitress.
Elise: So as I’m reading the menu, I realize it’s telling our story and he eventually proposed. It was so special; I actually had the menu framed! It was so beautiful and thoughtful.
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Meagan Good On Her Spiritual Journey And How Her Faith Was Tested Following Divorce: 'I Was So Mad At DeVon'
Actress Meagan Good is opening up about her spiritual journey and how it helped her cope with her divorce from her ex-husband, DeVon Franklin.
The couple, who met on the set of Jumping the Broom, were married for nearly a decade before the producer and motivational speaker filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. Good and Franklin’s divorce was finalized the following year.
Since parting ways, the pair have moved on. The Harlemstar is now in a relationship with actor Johnathan Majors, while Franklin sparked dating rumors earlier this year when he was spotted with a mystery woman.
During a recent appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast, Good reflected on the transformative changes in her life over the past two years and shared the insights she’s gained following her split from Franklin.
Meagan On Her Spiritual Journey
In the interview, the 42-year-old actress spoke about her relationship with God and how, despite recent hardships, she still views her life's path as a beautiful journey.
“Mine has always been a journey. In these last two years has been especially a journey. But it’s been such an incredible journey,” she said. “The place that I’m in now where I just have freedom in God and just such a trust that God knows my heart. Knows who I am even better than I do, and so yes, it’s been a really beautiful journey.”
Meagan On How Her Spirituality Was Tested Following Her Breakup With DeVon
Further into the conversation, Good was asked if her faith was tested while dealing with her divorce from Franklin and the legal issues surrounding Majors, who was ultimately charged with assault and harassment after his split from ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari.
The Divorce In The Black star admitted that although it was a trying period for Majors and herself, her faith never wavered.
“For sure. Not this past year. This past year, I’m like, Lord, I know you’re going to do what you do, and I trust you and making sure that I was there to give that to Jonathan that’s what I felt that I was there to do. My faith has never wavered in that instance,” she stated.
Regarding the end of her marriage, Good revealed that it upended her world, as she hadn't anticipated it, especially since she felt she had followed God's guidance.
“But going through the divorce, that shook me to my core. I was like, Lord you asked me to be celibate, I was. You told me to marry; I married that person,” she said. “I try to do everything to the best of my ability, and no, I didn’t do everything perfect but I don’t know that I could have done anything different if I am being honest. And so I was like, ‘Why is this happening?’”
The Shazam! Fury of the Gods star opened up about her greatest fears and how she had to soul-search and rediscover God's plan for her life after her divorce from Franklin. Following this journey, Good commended her ex-husband for living his truth despite the public scrutiny.
“My greatest fear was for my husband to leave me after 10 years of marriage the way that my dad and my mom separated. That’s exactly what happened. It was like, I don’t understand this,” she stated. “It was a lot of prayer, a lot of evaluation, a lot of learning about myself even. It was a lot of realizing the place that we were both in. It was a lot of rediscovering God and realizing that sometimes the way we see and understand things it’s not that it’s not true. It’s just you do come into different seasons.”
Good continued, “I had to accept that if this isn’t something I’ve chosen but it is something that God has allowed, then God has allowed it for a good reason. I think that we have both grown from it tremendously…At the time, I was so mad at DeVon, but now I think what he did was very brave. I think that it was a very scary thing to know that the church and all the people, everyone was going to be like this is not what a man of God or a woman of God does. Of course, a lot of people were like, Meagan must’ve done something, and I’m like, ‘what?’”
Meagan On Why She Doesn’t Regret Her Relationship With DeVon
Toward the end of the conversation, Good credited the former pair's growth and ability to maintain a friendship from the love they once shared.
“But I think that in order to grow to a place that we’ve grown I think we absolutely were supposed to be married for that amount of time. I think we got the best and the benefit out of it… He taught me a lot, and I taught him a lot. We took a lot and gave a lot. We’re still friends, and as he said, the love [has] transitioned into something else, but it’s still love,” she said.
The Think Like a Man star added that despite her divorce, she has no regrets, and this experience has taught her to live without fear.
“I don’t regret anything, and I’m super thankful for the time that we were married,” she stated. “I’m super thankful for what I learned, and I think that I love now in a different capacity. Because when your absolute worst fear happens now, there’s nothing to be afraid of anymore.”
When asked if she felt like a failure as her marriage to Franklin dissolved, Good replied, "No." She explained that their "almost ten successful years of marriage" and the lessons they learned from each other contributed to their growth.
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