Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list that helps you shop smarter by focusing on the 10 key items to add to your cart that month if your wardrobe is in need of a boost. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 11 years, I’ve spent many hours advising people on what to shop for during any given season, so you’re in good hands. Whether you’re shopping for cold weather, warm weather, a vacation, or a wedding, I’m here to offer up the most seasonally appropriate suggestions. Be sure to return at the start of each month for more.
Welcome to February, the month that holds the distinction of being the shortest month of the year and a stepping stone to spring. There’s a good chance you’re ready for warmer weather, and we all deserve it at this point, but it’s still winter. Because of this, I suggest shopping for practical pieces that give the subtlest nod to spring as well as a few things that I’m sure will sell out before spring arrives. Scroll on to shop the 10 trend-forward items and basics that will help you build a better wardrobe this February.
Three-Quarter-Sleeve Tee
The perfect in-between tee for this time of year just happens to be a rising basics trend. Three-quarter-sleeve tees give anything they’re paired with a chic ’90s look, which is something I’m always craving.
Reformation
Kacey Knit Top
Michael Stars
Basic Crew Neck 3/4 Sleeve T-Shirt
Something Pastel
Pastels are the perfect way to embrace spring without freezing. Luckily, there are plenty of color trends right now that fall into that category—think powder pink, butter, and mint.
J.Crew
Brushed Cashmere Cropped Cardigan Sweater in Faded Mint
Madewell
Slouchy Straight Pants in Drapey Twill in Pale Blush
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Carolyne 50 Pleated Satin Mules
Thin Socks
If you want to shed the winter boots, a smart way to make the shoe transition while still keeping warm is to pair whatever shoes you’re in the mood to wear with thin socks. I’m pairing mine with loafers and pumps now and might swap them out for heeled sandals when it warms up a bit more.
J.Crew
Ribbed Cotton Trouser Socks Three-Pack
Spring Sneakers
Speaking of footwear, now is the time to spring (no pun intended) for a new pair of sneakers before the best styles sell out. Trust me—they will.
Dries Van Noten
Suede-Trimmed Sneakers
New Balance
2002R Sneakers
Cream-Colored Jeans
It’s still denim season, but I’m planning to work some cream-colored pairs into my weekly outfit rotation. They look fresher but are still winter-appropriate.
Levi’s
501 90s Jeans in Ecru White
Madewell
The Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans in Vintage Canvas
J.Crew
Lower-Rise Wide-Leg Jean in 1984 Rigid in Ecru Wash
Barrel Bag
In addition to an east-west bag, I have my sights set on a new barrel bag, another trending style. It can be dressed up or down and gives your outfits an instant trend-forward push.
Reformation
Simona Cylinder Bag
H&M
Cylindrical Shoulder Bag
Elevated Leggings
Leggings are back, and they’re the perfect thing to wear in February. Even eternal It girls like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have been wearing them everywhere as of late. My search is focused on elevated pairs that don’t just look like workout pants.
J.Crew
Slim Stirrup Sweater Pants
Spanx
High Waisted Look at Me Now Leggings
Norma Kamali
Spat Leggings
Lightweight Jacket
Now is the time to invest in that new trench, leather bomber, or collarless jacket you’ve been considering. The weather is about to be perfect for these styles.
H&M
Oversized Leather Jacket
ZARA
Faux Leather Bomber Jacket
Everyday Earrings
With a new season comes a new desire to add some new everyday earrings to my collection. Bold yet subtle hoops and statement studs are at the top of my wish list.
Jenny Bird
Small Staple Hoops
MERIT x Completedworks
The Organic Gold Vermeil Studs
Silky Pants
If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a pair of silky pants but didn’t want to freeze, it’s time to reconsider that purchase as the weather starts to warm up just a tad.
Reformation
Olina Silk Pants
J.Crew
Stratus Pant in Textured Satin
Banana Republic
Pull-On Wide-Leg Silk Pant
Explore More:
