The Affordable 7-Piece Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe

With a new season just around the corner, it’s time to get our spring wardrobes into gear. Anyone else eager to cast their puffer jackets to the back of their closet in favor of some lighter, brighter layers?

There are plenty of exciting new-season trends to look forward to come March, but which fashion-forward items will serve as the backbone of your spring wardrobe? Today we’re sharing seven essential (and affordable) pieces that will get you through spring in style. These are not only on-trend, but they also serve as trusty staples that you can mix and match with other items in your closet to create a solid spring capsule wardrobe. From trending shackets to heeled loafers, these will work for every occasion, from meetings to dinners, with minimal effort involved. And because we know how quickly items in our carts tend to add up, we’ve kept every piece under $150.

1. Shacket

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(Image credit: @tamumcpherson)

A cross between an oversize shirt and a jacket, the shacket is currently blowing up on Instagram and dominating at all our favorite stores. The fashion girl–approved jacket is the perfect layering piece for spring—easy to throw on over lightweight knits and tees or under a trench or overcoat. It looks fresh buttoned up as a shirt and effortlessly cool undone as a jacket—a chic springtime replacement for your overused denim jackets. There are plenty of cool leather and wool-blend options around right now.

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2. Wide-Leg Jeans

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(Image credit: @leiasfez)

There's no question that '70s-inspired flare, boot-cut, and wide-leg jeans are set to be huge come spring thanks to their huge presence on the S/S 20 runways. They've already been spotted on some of our favorite celebrities and influencers. And while we'd never entirely part with our beloved skinnies, this trending silhouette is a fresh, of-the-moment alternative to wear with your knits, blouses, sneakers, and heels this spring.

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3. Modern Loafers

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(Image credit: @laurencaruso)

While loafers are classic and never really go out of style, this year we're seeing modern and intriguing iterations—particularly heeled loafers—with sartorial twists such as slingback styles, buckles, textured fabrics, fun patterns, and mule designs. Whatever style you choose, heeled loafers are the perfect option from day to night and can be easily paired with tailored trousers, jeans, and dresses alike.

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4. Puff-Sleeve Blouse

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(Image credit: Edward Berthelot, Getty Images)

Romantic, whimsical, and empowering—a puff-sleeve blouse has the ability to amp up your jeans and tailored trousers in an instant. Puff sleeves continue to be a huge trend for spring 2020, and whether you choose subtle volume or exaggerated shoulders, you'll reach for the silhouette time and again for your polished day and night occasions. For the most versatility, opt for blouses in neutral hues or classic patterns such as polka dots.

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5. Extra-Large Tote

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(Image credit: @_jeanettemadsen)

Finally, space to tote all our fashion and beauty essentials! When it comes to handbags this spring, the bigger the better. From tote bags to sling bags and shoppers, opt for spacious carryalls in luxe-looking leather or textured fabrics.

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6. Collared Sweater

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Spring is the perfect time to swap our bulky, chunky sweaters for something a little lighter. A polo-style knit is the perfect fashion-forward option. (And we're not talking polo shirts your dad might wear.) We mean chic sweaters with collars made of lightweight knits and sometimes featuring buttons. The preppy styles are incredibly versatile—easy to wear with miniskirts, jeans, and tailored trousers. 

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7. Long Shorts

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(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

Long shorts are set to be one of the biggest trends for spring 2020. Opt for relaxed tailored silhouettes in all fabrics, from leather to tweed. They are surprisingly versatile—easy to pair with knee-high boots, minimalist sandals, and sneakers alike. They're a great alternative to your jeans and midi skirts.

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Up next, the top eight color trends of 2020 that pair perfectly with your jeans.

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.