When you want to know something important, you might as well go to the source. And that’s exactly why we asked the top brass at some of our favorite retailers, Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York, Kirna Zabete, Elyse Walker, Curve and Nordstrom, to let us in on their must-haves for spring. Considering these individuals are experts on trends, fashion shows and top designers, we more than value their opinions. Use this list of fabulousness as your guide to the most wearable investments of the season.
The Experts' Guide To Spring Shopping
We're taking notes from these fashion directors and boutique owners.
Ken Downing, Neiman Marcus Fashion Director
"I'm obsessed with the sensuality of the '70s. That new bohemian spirit was a major message on the runways. Spring is a season of romanticism, exoticism and escapism—channel your inner Stevie Nicks gypsy."
Photo: Trevor Paulhus
Ken's Must-Have: Boho Blouse
"This Chloe blouse was my favorite—it immediately captured my attention on the runway in Paris." Photo: Getty Images
Ken's Must-Have: Flat Sandal
"This is the perfect foil for maxi and midi skirts and dresses. I'm insane for Gianvito Rossi—this sandal takes you everywhere with gypsy flair."
Ken's Must-Have: Fringe Dress
"I'm obsessed with fringe! It puts immediate bohemian credit in your wardrobe. Proenza Schouler's fringe dress gives you plenty of swish and sway in your gypsy sashay."
Tomoko Ogura, Barneys New York Senior Fashion Director
Tomoko's Must-Have: Embroidered Bomber
“The Dries Van Noten show was a Barneys favorite. Each piece is a must-have, and the best part about Dries is that it never goes out of style!”
Tomoko's Must-Have: Bucket Bag
“Amongst the strong statement of bucket bags we continue to see, Paco Rabanne's rendition is truly unique. The iconic metal discs have been updated in leather. They fall beautifully into place to create a distinct bucket silhouette.”
Tomoko's Must-Have: Cutout Sandal
“I'm a fan of any flat shoe that makes jeans and a T-shirt look polished.”
Sarah Easley & Beth Buccini, Owners, Kirna Zabete
Sarah & Beth's Must-Have: Mules
"Python + Perspex = the new neutral!"
Sarah & Beth's Must-Have: Red Dress
"Little red riding HOT! We’re Rosie Assoulin obsessed."
Sarah & Beth's Must-Have: Chain-strap Bag
"The It bag is back! Our love for the Chloe Drew bag continues with this fun, updated colorway."
Elyse Walker, Fashion Director of Forward by Elyse Walker
Elyse's Must-Have: Fringe Jacket
"Fringe is still in for spring, which is great because I love everything fringe—especially for the California lifestyle. This suede jacket is an easy way to update your spring wardrobe. The jacket can be worn day to night, and the beige color makes it work with any outfit."
Elyse's Must-Have: Fringe Bag
"If you don't want to go all out with the fringe trend, this Saint Laurent bag is the perfect way to bring fringe into your wardrobe. This bag could possibly be one of my favorite pieces that Hedi Slimane has ever designed."
Elyse's Must-Have: Fringe Heels
"These fringe heels are a great accent piece to any outfit and work day or night. I would wear them with a pair of boyfriend jeans for spring!"
Nevena Borissova, Owner, Curve
Nevena's Must-Have: Chic Trench
"Christophe Lemair, formerly of Hermes, has given us a killer collection. Having an oversize lightweight trench for spring is a must-have." Trench Coat, $765
Nevena's Must-Have: Slip Dress
"It's all about bringing back a '90s vibe, and bias-cut slip dresses are by far my top pick for the season—I love these from Madrid designer Pedro Del Hierro." Pedro dress, $1920
Nevena's Must-Have: Lace Cocktail Dress
"Red is the color of the season, and lace is the fabric. This dress from our A.O.T.C. line is absolutely everything for after dark." AOTC lace dress, $1195
Jeffrey Kalinsky, Nordstrom VP Designer Fashion Director & Founder of Jeffrey Stores,
Jeffrey's Must-Have: Fringe Bag
"Suede fringe and this rich color are very important accessory trends for the season. If you don’t have a bucket silhouette, this is the season to try it."
Jeffrey's Must-Have: Platform Sandal
"Platforms are the directional shape this spring, and the Saint Laurent Bianca platform sandal in croc is one of the best of the season."
Jeffrey's Must-Have: Graphic Dress
"I love this dress because it's so graphic and makes a clear black-and-white statement."
