A cargo vest is a necessity of mine for my spring wardrobe. I love how they make a simple outfit look more put together, and I also love the practicality it provides as a spring layer. Spring in New England can be unpredictable, so it’s always good to have a jacket on hand.

Photos by Alicia Ann Photographers

Jacket: Old Navy (similar, similar) // Dress: Liz & Honey (exact, similar options) // Shoes: Limelight Jocelyn c/o Rack Room Shoes (other options) // Bag: Clare V. (cheaper option!) // Watch: Daniel Wellington // Sunglasses: Le Spec

A cargo jacket is such a great investment for your spring wardrobe because it can be worn with almost anything. I particularly love how they look with neutrals, and I especially love the lightweight linen-like material of this one.  I’ve also styled it while pregnant with my favorite pair of knee high gladiator sandals and also here with my favorite pair of booties. When it comes to mixing prints, I tend to go a more subtle route like I’m doing here. Black and white stripes are simple enough to be paired with a bolder pattern, like my favorite Clare V. leopard clutch. I think the pop of leopard makes the outfit a little less boring, if you will 😉 Normally I would reach for a pair of tan or cognac sandals (because that’s my ENTIRE closet), but I love how these simple black gladiator sandals from Rack Room Shoes look instead! I don’t really wear black shoes (I don’t even have a reason why, I’m just more drawn to tan!), but this was an unexpected surprise for me. I love how the black straps pop and really compliment the black stripes in the dress. It proved that maybe sometimes I need to go out of my comfort zone! To see more spring shoe styles, head over to this post.

I love this outfit because the maxi dress is long enough to not have to worry about anything showing while chasing kiddos, and it’s an overall effortless look. Which is just what this busy mom needs!

SHOP THE POST