7 Spring Basics That Are Exceptionally Trendy This Year

What we often forget when it comes to fashion is that a trend doesn't necessarily mean an item is entirely new. You don't need a new wardrobe each season to be trendy. In fact, the best trends are often old ones that come back, fresh ways to style a staple piece, or the amplification of a basic we already own but maybe haven't paid that much attention to lately. Not so coincidentally, this story is about exactly those last types of pieces—spring basics that happen to be exceptionally trendy this year. 

From woven bags to trench coats, these are items you should already have in your closet but will likely wear now more than ever. Of course, if you don't have them or are simply in the mood to upgrade them, I've rounded up my favorites for each category. Keep scrolling to see what other basics made my list, shop each one, and take in some outfit inspiration along the way.

1. Trench coats

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(Image credit: @modedamour)

Trench coats are a crucial part of any wardrobe. Yet, I oddly don't own one, so you can bet this will be the season I add the basic to my arsenal.

2. Cardigans

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(Image credit: @dawn.tan)

My love of cardigans knows no bounds. Whether you style one alone as a top or layer it over a simple tee or tank, you need a few in your wardrobe for spring.

3. White button-downs

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

It doesn't get more classic than this, but if you thought the white button-down had peaked, know it's only getting cooler.

4. Raffia bags

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(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

Raffia bags aren't just for vacationing anymore. While I won't admit how many of these I own, I will tell you I'll be carrying them nearly every day for the next six months. 

5. Flowy trousers

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Looking for an alternative to your go-to jeans that looks polished yet casual? Flowy, spring-ready trousers are it.

6. Maxi skirts

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(Image credit: @_jeanettemadsen_)

The maxi skirt is back in the spotlight, and the look above is one of my favorite ways to style them.

7. Loafers & flats

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

It's time to give your sneakers and sandals a break. Instead, sport a pair of ballet-inspired flats or menswear-inspired loafers. Which will you choose? Why not try both?

Next, business-casual is trending, and these spring pieces fit the vibe.

Senior Market Editor

Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2020, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch 90 Day Fiancé.