5 Updates for Your Spring Wardrobe
Get on-trend with simple style upgrades from J.McLaughlin
Spring is finally here, and it’s a pretty typical — sometimes chilly, sometimes warm — Long Island spring that begs the question, “What do I wear right now?” Pretty Local tapped Mary Ellen Coyne, CEO of American sportswear brand J.McLaughlin (and Long Islander), for key items that are both on-trend and work with the season’s transitional temps.
The iconic brand, with locations nationwide, recently opened its sixth location on Long Island in Garden City, where Coyne has roots. “I have many friends in the community, and my father-in-law’s practice was on Franklin Avenue for over 40 years, so it’s especially close to my heart,” she says. The store opening has been five years in the making as J.McLaughlin waited for the right spot to become available. “The store is beautiful, our team is exceptional, and the community has been so welcoming,” says Coyne.
So, what are we wearing this spring? Transitional and versatile pieces that work for any event and any temp. “A wide-leg pant is a great place to start,” says Coyne. “Our midi [that’s mid-length] dresses work for everything on your calendar, and I personally love the white suit, which I plan to wear on an upcoming trip to London.”
No matter your plans this season, Coyne has five spring fashion items that will instantly update — and upgrade — your style.
1. The Floral Midi Dress
As mentioned, the midi or mid-length dress is having a moment. “It’s super-chic and incredibly flattering,” says Coyne. The in-between length hits somewhere between the knee and the ankle. “It’s great in the transitional seasons and looks fabulous on women of every age.”
A floral print midi is especially on trend this season. If the pattern combined with the long length overwhelms you, add a belt. “A belt is a fabulous accessory to pull together the look and accentuate your shape,” says Coyne. “It’s also a great way to add a neutral dimension to a patterned dress.”
Shown: The Cunningham Dress, $298
2. The Wide-Leg Jean
The pendulum has swung in denim. After seasons of skinny and straight-leg jeans, the wide-leg is here in full force. If you haven’t gotten on board yet, Coyne has some tips for pulling off the look. “The trick to styling a wide-leg jean is to add a little height to your look and wear them with a heel,” she says. “I prefer a pair with a more fitted top to balance out the width of the pants.” Pairing wide-leg jeans with a cashmere sweater, a silk blouse, or a blazer also helps create balance and a polished look.
Shown: Natural Lowden Jeans, $198.
3. The neutral shoe
A shoe that goes with everything is a must-have this season. Expect to see sandals, wedges, heels, loafers, flats, and slingbacks in neutral tones and natural textures such as raffia. “We love this simple ballet flat with jeans, shorts, and dresses,” says Coyne.
Shown: Anastasia Raffia Flats, $228
4. A Transitional Jacket
Brisk mornings, warm afternoons, and chilly evenings call for lightweight layers. And for spring, it’s all about the tweed jacket, says Coyne. “Textures keep things interesting, and I’m loving the neutral tweed Martha Jacket (below), which instantly dresses up your look,” she says. “Take this with you wherever you go; it’s the perfect finishing piece with everything from faded jeans to a tailored dress!”
Shown: Martha Jacket, $298.
5. A Pop of Yellow
Sunny yellow is the color of the season. If you’re color-shy, an accessory in the bold hue is a great place to experiment. “A little goes a long way,” Coyne says. “This bag, with a leather-covered bamboo handle, adds a pop of color, as does our Evie raffia belt [shown above in number one],” Coyne says. “I love how this yellow shade pairs with navy blue or all white in the summer.”
J.McLaughlin has locations on Long Island: Huntington, Locust Valley, Garden City, Southold, Southampton, and Bridgehampton. Or shop online at jmclaughin.com.
