There’s something about pinstripes and springtime that feels just about perfect to me. They’re the ideal pattern for minimalists and others who shy away from the graphic spectrum of fashion: they add the lightness and interest of a graphic element but in a subtle, calm way. They are classic but look eternally fresh — and match the pretty, azure skies peeking out through the masses of early spring storm clouds!

I recently got this pinstripe-ish tank with a gift card from H&M. I went in thinking I’d be practical and buy myself some new undies, but lo and behold, I saw this on the mannequin and it hit that springtime fashion itch: it felt light and breezy, but it didn’t scream “WHIMSY!” Instead, with its pinafore-ish styling and bowties, it was more of a whisper of it. I’m excited to wear it with my wide-legged track pants (that I wore in this outfit) or my Everlane ones, which are more structured and formal.

I also picked up the Victoria Beckham x Target pinstriped dress — you know, the “it” one from the collection. (Insomnia sucks, but it comes in handy sometimes.) In this case, pinstripes make the modern cut and design a bit more classic, if not work-friendly — though it feels a little more ironic instead of investment banker-y. I’ve worn this dress a lot since getting it — it works great with a jean jacket, an army jacket, a blazer, moto boots, Chelsea boots, riding boots, sandals and so much more.

Because I’m so fond of imaginary shopping, I scoured for more pinstripe-y items that fit that lovely nexus of whimsical and classic. Some of these aren’t so pinstripe-y — some are more like Breton stripes, though I tried to keep everything in the blue/black/white vein.