Lovin' Lately no. 26
Spring’s coolest sneakers, a simple but enjoyable date night, and highlights from a packed week.
The Second Act is a weekly newsletter packed with obsessively-curated recommendations and ideas—let’s get to it!
The sun has been out lately and it’s turning to the season of soft resets, and that includes everything from your wardrobe to your hair routine to how you spend a Tuesday night. This week’s post is a mix of practical picks and playful inspiration: cool-girl sneakers you’ll actually wear, the dry shampoo that’s saving my air-dried waves, and a date night idea that’s low effort but high vibe. Plus a reminder that sometimes, the best part of your week is just a kind conversation and a riverside picnic.
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Spring’s Coolest Sneakers, Styled for Real Life
Generally speaking, sneakers never go out of style. They’re comfortable (or at least they should be), relatively affordable, and can be worn year-round. The logic behind my mini collection. I’m all about comfort and I love going for walks. I’ve developed somewhat of a knack for spotting the best new sneaker styles and looks, with this year’s trends shaping up to be some of my favorite to date.
From unconventional styles like slip-ons and Mary Jane sneakers—yes, you read that right—to more familiar, Samba-adjacent silhouettes, the current sneaker trends offer something for everyone. While retro, slim-fit styles are still abundant (hello, Adidas’ SL 72 model), they feel fresh and exciting for spring thanks to unexpected colors and prints.
1. Suede Sneakers & White Denim
Suede, notoriously reserved for fall and winter, is getting a fresh new take for spring when paired with white denim. I’ve noticed girls are dressing up the duo with lightweight jackets, silk scarves, and coordinating suede bags.
2. Mary Jane Sneakers & Gingham Tanks
Mary Jane sneakers, one of the season’s more controversial trends, have been quickly adopted by fashion-goers, creating a stir amongst internet users who feel strongly against the hybrid model; but as with anything in fashion, it’s all about how you style it. When dressing for warmer weather, try styling Mary Jane sneakers with soft checks and florals for a perfectly juxtaposed combo.
3. Retro Sneakers & Draped Cardigans
I take solace in knowing that I have a trusty stack of cardigans and a cute collection of sneakers to bear the brunt of life’s wardrobe dilemmas. The two are mighty on their own, but when worn together? A transitional match made in heaven. Here, jeans and a tee get a quick face-lift with retro-style sneakers and a cardigan draped over the shoulders—the perfect point of interest that acts as a functional layer for a spring day’s habitual dip in temperature.
4. Colorful Sneakers & Poplin Pants
Looking for ways to add more color into your spring wardrobe? Start with footwear. If you’re a minimalist, try a neutral sneaker with a subtle pop like the photo above; if you veer more maximalist, go big this season with an all-over red or blue. To keep things effortlessly cool, style them with relaxed poplin pants in a muted solid or stripe.
5. Leopard Print Sneakers & Red Tops
They may not seem like the most practical, but when styled like a neutral, a pair of leopard print sneakers are as versatile as they come. My favorite way to wear them? With a pop of color, or in this case, a colorful look from head to toe.
6. Sporty Sneakers & Sweat Sets
Chunky sneakers haven’t entirely gone away; however, instead of styling them with straight-leg jeans as we’ve done in years past, spring for something a bit more laid-back, like a matching sweat set. Statement layers and accessories, like the above leather jacket and suede bag, are essential for taking this look from loungewear to streetwear.
Whether you're drawn to retro classics or leaning into the more playful, fashion-forward styles of the season, there's a sneaker trend out there for you—and plenty of ways to make it your own. The beauty of these looks is in their versatility: you can dress them up, tone them down, or simply let them carry you through your day in comfort and style. So go ahead—lace up, slip on, or strap in. Your spring outfits just found their perfect match.
In case you missed it…
Spring invites us to soften, lighten, and let in a little more magic. Whether that’s through whimsical habits, glowy skin, or a very extra girl dinner. It’s not about having it all together (we know that’s a scam), but about adding joy in small, intentional ways. So here’s your gentle nudge to wear the matching pajamas, light the floral candle, and keep finding beauty in the tiny, glittery corners of your day.
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I haven't tried that dry shampoo yet but now I'm going down a rabbit hole. I love all your sneaker suggestions!