Spring is finally here and it’s time to shelf those bulky winter layers. The warm sun-drenched days ahead invite a wardrobe shift to lighter, brighter fabrics and skin-baring garments. An effortless seasonal suspect among the shift is shorts. For this New Yorker, shorts of the tailored and stylish variety is often chosen over ultra-casual denim options. For an upgraded spin on this warm weather essential, try these uncomplicated styling methods for your next sunny city outing. 

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CRISP WHITE SHIRT
A universally-flattering piece attainable at every price point, a crisp white shirt instantly adds a timeless and smart touch to the most casual ensembles. A power player in warm weather attire, a white buttoned shirt paired with stylish shorts makes for an upgraded seasonal uniform suitable for a range of settings. Finishing accents like statement gold jewelry or a poppy-colored silk scarf creates interesting dimensions for a more complete look. 

POLISHED POPS OF COLOR
New Yorkers love their sleek noir style and sport this full dramatic tone year-round. To liven up this dark shade for the warmer months, add a dash of color to tonal outfits in the form of accessories and a topper. While an single  neutral toned outfit serves as a canvas for color, haphazardly throwing random hues with this base look can appear sloppy and confusing. For a polished look which feels fresh and modern, throw a topper (blazer or sweater) over your shoulders and a minimal accessory (small handbag or shoes) in a single matching color. Sweet tones like pink and lavender add softness to this edgy tone while zesty citrus colors feel appropriate in the spring and summer seasons, all of which stand out beautifully against black and other neutrals. For a flattering shoe option, pair your shorts with a slingback sandal, which offers a lovely lengthening effect to bare legs (my favorite tip for petite frames!)

ROMANTIC ACCENTS 
Airy fabrics, fantastic florals and lush laced textures are all hallmarks of romantic dressing and are among my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. While often wearing these refined styles with a variety of skirts, styling with pleated shorts changed my perspective on wearing these types of bottoms to more fancy affairs. A sharply tailored pair of dark-toned shorts are elegantly elevated by the feminine features of romantic blouses. The result is a sophisticated ensemble with a contemporary take on delicate power dressing. 

COLOR BLOCK
While color block looks are reserved for more punchy, vibrant hues, the same formula can be applied to soft tones. Rather than opting for a cool break between a top and bottom, a chic jacket saturated in a single contrasting tone (tan) atop a solid colored dress (white) amplifies the chic factor. Bookend the look with richly colored dark accessories and finish with a bold red lip. 

HIGHLIGHT THE WARMTH
For this styling option, I like keeping the warm neutral the focal point of the look and have the contrasting soft white tones frame the piece. A sweater in a deliciously deep caramel anchors the full look and provides an simple foundation to build upon. Polished materials like tweed and an a-line skirt create a more elevated look but a more casual take can be achieved with a classic topper coat and tailored pants in the same pale white color.

REFRESHED DETAILS
Much like the reintroduction of this color pairing, silhouettes and design details of the past are once again becoming new. Pretty details like embroidery and puff sleeves can be worn beautifully if proportions and garment styles are taken into consideration. Opting for a piece with overly voluminous shapes and extra fabric can often drown the figure and appear frumpy. Selecting a more properly fitting blouse or sweater with subtle takes on this design offer a more current and effortless way to enjoy this vintage style.