There’s some truth to faking it until you make it, and it starts with the right outfit. After all, clothes have the power to completely alter our vibe, but all too often, we play into how we’re already feeling — for better or worse. This is an effective strategy when we’re emoting confidence and positivity, but what about the days we’re not feeling our strongest, happiest, or most self-assured? It’s easy to carelessly throw an outfit together, but at the end of the day, does that approach serve you?
Thrusting a little intention behind your looks can go a long way toward helping you harness the energy you want to emit and, ultimately, the mood you want to feel. It’s as simple as this: When you’re not dressing for your current mood, dress for the mood you want. Think of it as style manifestation. This spring, four trends in particular (all available at Nordstrom) will help you activate your peak self.
Empowered in Reimagined Suiting
Allow your clothing to lay the groundwork for you, setting the tone for your presence before you even say a word. Case in point: Sometimes the best remedy for imposter syndrome is a commanding blazer with high-impact accessories and an unexpected twist. This is the world of relaxed suiting, and yes, it makes a statement.
On the spring ’24 runways, designers such as Miu Miu, Sacai, Acne Studios, and Maison Margiela embraced suiting in their own compelling way. From double-breasted blazers paired with slouchy slacks to preppy layers worn with board shorts, there’s no wrong iteration — unless of course, you’re wearing this trend and somehow don’t feel empowered, because that is the whole point.
Lean on this aesthetic when you’re craving a confidence boost. Taking charge and owning the room, a presentation, or a pitch feels easier when you’re in uniform. A powerful outfit equates to a powerful presence, and this look not only exudes professionalism, but also demands respect — sans stuffiness. Mesh layers, knee shorts, and fishnet socks feel fresh in the boardroom (or any room at all), proving a fashion-forward take on workwear is just as strong and authoritative as the tired, in-office style tropes we’re all too used to seeing. Let us be clear though: This trend is not just for work, but rather anytime you need a dose of fearlessness.
1) Jil Sander Boxy Fit Blazer, $3,700; 2) Vince Washed Cotton Shorts, $225; 3) Vince Double-Layer Cotton-Blend Tank, $265; 4) Acne Studios Seamless Sheer Wool-Blend T-Shirt, $300; 5) Wolford Fishnet Knee-High Socks, $45; 6) Jeffrey Campbell Persona Slingback Pump, $155; 7) Jenny Bird Florence Hoop Earrings, $138; 8) Jenny Bird Small Le Tome Hoop Earrings, $110
Grounded in Wide Denim
Casual doesn’t have to be boring. There’s a fine line between effortless and lazy, and wide-leg jeans are the former without restricting comfort or versatility. If you’ve ever buttoned up a pair of denim trousers, you know what we’re talking about. They simultaneously allow you to feel polished, relaxed, and grounded.
Designers such as Prabal Gurung, Loewe, Rag & Bone, and Rokh took this notion and ran with it in their spring ’24 collections. Pairing denim with everything from structured workwear to romantic tops to classic basics, those shows made it clear roomy denim knows no bounds. Aside from truly special occasions, some form of wide-leg jeans are almost always a safe bet. It’s this philosophy that will have you stressing less about what to wear and concentrating instead on how to show up as the best version of yourself.
Tap into this trend when you need to channel balanced, feel-good energy. They’re the people’s pant, and in extra-wide, they’re a modern staple you don’t need to think twice about. While they play nicely with everything in your closet, we suggest styling them with a bright button-up and whimsical accessories for an instant pick-me-up.
1) Favorite Daughter The Crop Ex Boyfriend Button-Up Shirt, $178; 2) AGOLDE Low-Slung Baggy Jeans, $228; 3) Falke Polka Dot Mesh Crew Socks, $20; 4) Jeffrey Campbell Millenni Pointed-Toe Kitten-Heel Pump, $55; 5) Chopova Lowena Lucky Chopova Pendant Necklace, $235
Refreshed in a Memorable White Dress
We all need a palate cleanser every once in a while, and a crisp white dress is fashion’s version of pickled ginger at a sushi dinner — refreshing, restorative, and delightfully necessary. Forget what your mother told you: White can, and we argue should, be worn year round. LBDs are chic and all, but there’s something decidedly inspiring about that same dress in white. If your goal is to convey a sense of revitalization, renewal, and positivity, a little white dress — scratch that, a grand, unforgettable white dress — is the ultimate choice.
Nearly every designer tapped into the endless potential of a white dress for spring and summer. From Valentino’s elevated t-shirt version to Simkhai’s cut-out poplin style, white dresses have become a universal must-have seemingly overnight. Their allure stems from their chameleon-like abilities and the quite literal blank slate they provide for all of our favorite accessories.
A Great White Dress is the move when you want to portray sleek sophistication, elegance, and ease. Don’t let this trend’s breezy and light demeanor trick you into thinking it’s incapable of projecting serious mystery and power. Like its black counterpart, a white dress can be it all — whatever “it” means to you.
1) Favorite Daughter The Favorite Strapless Maxi Dress, $298; 2) AllSaints Rina Tank Top, $49; 3) Vince Ellis Sandal, $295; 4) DEMARSON Lexi Earrings, $275
Energized in a Destination Dress Code
The next best thing to being on vacation is dressing like you’re on vacation. Never underestimate the effects that a little neon, a bold print, and colorful jewelry can have on your mind, body, and spirit. This trend is all about dressing for the getaway you’re currently manifesting, and we’re all in on harnessing a playful, beachy vibe.
Designers didn’t wait for resort-wear season to showcase bright, seaside styles for spring ’24. Between Cult Gaia, Casablanca, Anna Sui, and Emilio Pucci, it’s clear that bikini tops, sheer separates, raffia accessories, and sunny colorways are in season regardless of location or time of year. That’s good news for those constantly eternalizing summer energy. And for those of us who may need a little mood boost now and then, capturing carefree optimism begins with getting dressed.
Whether you’re feeling stifled or yearning for a bit of excitement, leaning into destination dressing is your ticket to somewhere with more sunshine and less responsibility. Next time you need a hit of dopamine, try wrapping yourself in pieces typically reserved for an exotic escape. There’s not much to it other than letting loose, having fun, and remembering not to take yourself too seriously. Sometimes the creative process alone is enough to brighten your disposition.
1) Rails Geneva Stripe Cotton-Blend Cardigan, $248; 2) lemlem Malia Triangle Bikini Top, $135; 3) Ulla Johnson Josephine Eyelet Ruffle Maxi Skirt, $590; 4) Miu Miu Riviere Cord & Leather Sandal, $895; 5) Madewell Whipstitch Straw Bucket Hat, $52; 6) Lizzie Fortunato Cabana Cultured Pearl Beaded Necklace, $390
This advertising content was produced in collaboration between Vox Creative and our sponsor, without involvement from Vox Media editorial staff.