This April, we vow to shop fashion items that make us happy and point our mood in the right direction. We're taking into account labels that have committed to donating a portion of their proceeds to charities in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. We're also constantly browsing some of our favorite small brands in an effort to support them and their hardworking teams during this economic crisis. This is what we mean when we tell you to shop thoughtfully. While we certainly haven't limited our imagination when it comes to dreaming about future splurges, we're taking a step back and asking ourselves, "What clothes won't just make me look good but also feel good?"
From Soludos's bright new clothing line to Alice + Olivia's rainbow pullovers and some of Cult Gaia's incredible jewelry that could double as artwork, we've rounded up the items that we know we're going to treasure forever. That's not just because these looks are beautiful but because they mark a specific moment in our lives, when we all want to wear pieces that are uplifting and personal. Read on to see how we're shopping, and you'll find that — spoiler alert! — everything we included in this post is under $150. Yes, your wallet is smiling, too.
"I don't have lots of 'occasions' to wear fancy shoes at the moment, but these Superga x LoveShackFancy Women's Classic Sneaker ($119) are frilly and feminine and just the thing to brighten my mood on my daily walks." — Hannah Weil McKinley, director, Fashion + Shop
"I love that Cult Gaia is one of the brands giving back this season, donating a portion of proceeds to No Kid Hungry. The Cult Gaia Rattan Square Bangle ($60) reminds me of making major fashion statements on the beach, and that's absolutely one of my favorite pastimes." — Sarah Wasilak, Fashion editor
"The '90s straight leg is going to be my new denim uniform this spring. I will wear the Reformation Vintage High Straight ($128) with tee shirts or fitted cardigans." — Dana Avidan Cohn, executive style director
"I love these happy, cheerful Soludos Rainbow Wave Sneakers ($139) and look forward to wearing them in brighter days to come. They match my mood often, so I think they will look adorable with jeans, dresses, and skirts." — Lisa Sugar, editor-in-chief
"Lately, jewelry has been brightening my mood while working from home, and these Cult Gaia Aria Earrings ($88) come in a gorgeous midnight blue color." — Nikita Ramsinghani, associate fashion editor
"The Frankie Shop is donating 10 percent of proceeds to No Kid Hungry, and lucky for me, they carry the Timeless Pearly Pearl Letter Pendants ($145) I'm obsessed with. I imagine wearing my initial on a long chain, coordinated with plunging necklines and open-back shirts." — SW
"This Wilfred Only Ruched Slip Dress ($126) makes me look forward to summer nights out, dancing with a margarita in hand. Patience is key, they say. I'm particularly happy that when I check out on Aritzia's site the brand donates to the Aritzia Community Relief Fund, which supports families in need." — SW
"I'm not really a slipper person, but I do love socks. I'm living in these Camp Collection Tie-Dye Socks ($12)." — DAC
"I love that these wavy Labucq Sophia Pumps ($135) were inspired by the ones designer Lauren Bucquet's mom wore in the '80s. They also make me think that if I purchase them, I just may repurpose them for my wedding in 2021, and the anticipation puts a smile on my face." — SW
"I have a few pieces from this brand. I love the quality and weight of the charm on the Temple of the Sun Stella Necklace in Gold ($149). It's perfect to layer up or wear as a single." — DAC
"Has there ever been a better time to own good sweatshirts? I have been wearing this Mate Vintage Pullover ($108) in bone with denim and a few gold necklaces." — DAC
"This Staud Mick Top ($135) comes in a fun blue print that brings a smile to my face. I can even see myself dressing up a pair of sweatpants with this shirt." — NR
"I've been logging a lot of screen time while working from home and realized that I wasn't properly protecting my eyes. I ordered these Warby Parker Percey Frames in Tidal Blue ($95) ASAP." — DAC
"These bracelets are like a wearable ray of sunshine. I love the bright colors and positive messaging. I'm going to buy this Reminder Yourself Set ($130), split it up, and send one bracelet to three close friends. A portion of proceeds is also donated to the COVID-19 Direct Relief Fund." — DAC
"Color me happy! Once I found out that Soludos broke into the clothing world, I wanted all the breezy midi dresses and this Savoia Jacket ($129) in particular, which is so in line with my quirky style thanks to the colorful veggie embroidery." — SW
"I have a pair of Good American jeans that I've been wearing at home nonstop since they're superstretchy and wearable. I want to get these vintage-inspired Good American Curve Skinny Crop Jeans ($149) to add to my rotation. I also love that a portion of proceeds from the purchase will be donated to Baby2Baby." — NR
"In an effort to spark joy and help those in need, Danielle Snyder of Dannijo is handmaking her own limited-edition Florella Necklace ($110). While the rainbow beads are sweet, the purpose it serves is even cooler. Each necklace purchased provides 50 meals to those in need via Food Bank for New York City donation. I'm currently wearing mine to liven up my Zoom happy hour looks." — HWM
"A+O is always one of my favorite labels for playful pieces, and this AO X Friendswithyou Pullover ($158) is adorable. It's hard for me to turn away from the rainbow trend, and this sweater is perfect for Zoom meetings." — LS
"I love the curated selection at Hero Shop in SF, and while the storefront is closed, the website is open for business and full of awesome finds to enjoy at home now — and out as soon as we can later! This adorable and supersoft Culk Rainbow Sweatshirt ($56) is perfect with socks and leggings on a lazy day at home, but I plan to style it with my favorite jeans and sneakers for seasons to come." — HWM
"I've been meaning to get a simple slip dress that I can wear on a date night, even if I'm at home. This Aritzia Only Slip Dress ($95, originally $118) is pretty perfect." — NR
"I'm looking for stylish basics right now, and one of my favorites is this & Other Stories Knit Cardigan ($69) buttoned up as a top with midrise denim." — DAC
"The new Soludos Ashore Sneaker ($129) just reminds me of beach days ahead, especially in the bright Limoncello shade. I know these will just be so effortless and airy to slip on when warmer days come." — SW