I Work in Fashion, and These Are the Spring Staples Actually Worth Investing In
NET-A-PORTER is a Who What Wear UK staple for new-season buys, and this spring is no different. These are our top picks for spring.
Everyone in fashion I speak to lately is getting their spring wardrobe ready, whether mentally bookmarking outfits or actively clearing space. Maybe it's a bit of escapism after what feels like the wettest start to the year we've had in ages, but there's a definite shift in mood afoot. We're craving lighter layers, easier silhouettes and clothes that feel a little less serious. Spring always brings that urge to reset, but for me, it's never about starting from scratch. It's about those subtle swaps that make everything else feel fresh again: a cardigan instead of a heavy knit, denim that feels softer and more relaxed, shoes you actually want to wear day to day. These are the pieces that quietly change how your wardrobe works, and right now, that feels especially appealing.
My recent scrolling on NET-A-PORTER has been fuelling this excitement for spring even more. The way I think we'll be dressing feels very real and very wearable: cardigans worn as tops, roomy bags styled with simple denim, flats paired with relaxed tailoring. And the best bit? You probably already own most of these pieces, and NET-A-PORTER's edit is the answer to those little gaps or clever updates to refresh everything. I'm bookmarking pieces that are practical but still super chic; the sort of items that work for busy weeks, upcoming events and everything that tends to fill the calendar once spring (finally) arrives. It's less about endless shopping and more about refining what we already rely on.
Looking ahead to spring 2026, the pieces I'm most drawn to are the ones that earn their place beyond the season, like Dôen's short-sleeved cardigan that works buttoned-up or layered, Agolde's modern yet anti-trend denim and bags that fit more than just the essentials (ahem, Dragon Diffusion). I've even got my eye on Margiela's divisive Tabi flats, made far more wearable in pretty pink satin. Some of the pieces on my list are investment-level, others are more accessible, but all of them work hard. They tap into the direction spring is moving in, whilst still feeling relevant going forward, which is always my goal when adding anything new. If you're in the same boat, then keep scrolling for my picks of the season.
Shop Our 5 Spring Staples From NET-A-PORTER:
1. Versatile Cardigans
Style Notes: Cardigans feel like one of the most useful pieces going into spring, mainly because they work in so many different ways. I am drawn to styles that feel good enough to wear on their own but still layer easily when needed. The right cardigan can make denim feel more intentional and take the place of a light jacket on milder days, which is exactly what I want from a spring staple.
Shop Cardigans:
I love a buttoned cardigan with tailored trousers or jeans for spring.
The collar smartens this one up.
A great option when full sleeves feel like too much. This works particularly well with high-rise jeans and simple flats.
This is ideal if your wardrobe leans minimal but you still want something that does a bit more.
2. Light Denim
Style Notes: Light denim always marks the shift into spring dressing. It feels softer and easier and instantly changes the tone of an outfit. I'm prioritising washes and shapes that feel relaxed rather than overly structured; the kind you can rely on day after day.
Shop Denim:
I like how fluid these feel, and they sit nicely on the waist.
Wide, but not too wide.
You can never go wrong with Citizens of Humanity.
The frayed hems give these an off-duty feel that I love.
3. Spacious Bags
Style Notes: As layers get lighter, I find myself wanting bags that do a bit more. Spacious styles are practical and just look right with simpler outfits, which makes them an easy choice for spring. These are the bags I reach for when I need something that works for busy days without thinking twice.
Shop Bags:
The ultimate spring bag.
A bunch of Who What Wear UK editors would advise you to buy this bag.
Fits your daily essentials and then some.
Very '90s, and very chic.
4. Simple Flats
Style Notes: Flats continue to be a key part of my spring wardrobe, especially delicate styles that aren't purely practical. I'm looking for pairs that hold their own with denim and tailoring alike, and that I can wear for long stretches without feeling restricted.
Shop Flats:
Pale pink satin makes Tabis instantly more wearable.
Velvet is a great option if suede was your thing for winter.
A classic that never really leaves my rotation. These are soft, comfortable and easy to wear all day.
I've seen so many great outfits with scrunched ballet flats lately.
5. Throw-On Jackets
Style Notes: Spring jackets need to be effortless, so I'm focused on styles that are easy to grab on the way out the door and work across a range of outfits without much thought. These are the pieces that bridge the gap between seasons and get worn far more than you expect.
Shop Jackets:
The satin, the shade, the length—it's a yes from me.
Is it even a spring wardrobe with a trench coat?
This adds structure without feeling heavy, and works particularly well with jeans and flats.
These would be perfect for a Canadian tuxedo moment.
