I'm a Seasoned Shopper, But Even I Was Wowed by These 10 Luxury Spring Buys

Calling myself a "shopping expert" is not a role that I take lightly, and as Who What Wear's shopping editor, believe me when I say there is plenty of legwork involved. Fortunately, I happen to love spending hours in the shops searching for the kind of hidden gems that I know you'll love, and if you're in rush and want to know where to find the best designer pieces on the market right now, allow to me to share with you some of the best new-in pieces to land this month. And trust me, there are some really good ones. 

While I am a fully fledged high-street devotee, it's always exciting to look through the latest luxury collections and be able to shop designer pieces straight from the runway. So this week, I headed into some of our favourite luxury stores (think MATCHESFASHION, Selfridges, Browns and Liberty) to scour the shelves for some new investment buys that would be perfect for the sunnier spring season ahead and beyond. 

With the current forecast in mind, I was on the hunt for spring-ready colours, textures and fabrics that are still warm enough for the unseasonably chilly temperatures we've been experiencing. After trying on plenty of coats, knits, dresses, and of course, accessories, I've found 10 pieces guaranteed to make getting ready in the morning that little bit better. From the ultimate wedding guest dress to the staple blazer that everyone will love, I've reviewed ten designer pieces that are worth spending a little extra on, and that I'm sure you'll love for years to come. Happy shopping. 

1. THE BELTED COAT 

Style Notes: As much as we'd like for spring to have been dress-and-sandals weather, we aren't there quite yet, but if you are in need for a transitional layer, I've found the perfect solution. Raey's belted coat has a light, trench feel while still being substantial (it's 100% virgin wool), so its ideal for wearing over dresses or with knits and skirts if it's really cold. Trenches and wrap coats never go out of style, and this manages to combine the best of both worlds in one easy piece that you'll want to wear on repeat. 

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2. THE BASKET BAG 

Style Notes: If there's one spring/summer piece you can incorporate into your wardrobe no matter the temperature, it has to be the raffia basket bag. The original Loewe basket kickstarted the trend for artisan wicker bags back in 2019, but the latest iteration is upgraded in size and style, a slouchy, shoulder bag that works everywhere from the beach to the city. Keep your eyes peeled for this back come summer, it's about to be everywhere. 

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3. THE KNIT CO-ORD

Style Notes: I first spotted this candyfloss co-ord during Copenhagen Fashion Week, and while my first thoughts were "how cute!", my second was "it's probably itchy." I'm happy to report this cloud soft combo is fluffy rather than hairy, so rather than being itchy, it's strokeably soft. Head-to-toe pink might not be for everyone, but this is has the benefit of looking just as good broken into separates. The mohair knit would look adorable with blue jeans or a slip skirt, and the cosy skirt would be great with a cream knit or cardigan, so when you think of the versatility, it makes even more sense. 

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4. THE PRINTED DRESS

Style Notes: I'm firmly in dress scouting mode, and whether you're looking for a summer dress, wedding guest dress, holiday dress or party dress, I think this Christopher Kane piece ticks a lot of boxes. Green is a key colour trend this spring/summer and there's no ignoring this bold take on abstract florals, especially with some gold jewellery and a knee-high boot. Did I mention it comes in white exclusively to MATCHES too? 

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5. THE KNIT MIDI DRESS 

Style Notes: Calling this a "jersey" dress does it a disservice as the fabric is so thick that feels more like fine knit. The stretchy material has all of the hold and support of a bandage dress (albeit with far more breathing room), so even without shapewear, it creates a smooth, flattering silhouette. I'd expect nothing less from The Row, who are masters of sleek, understated pieces that come alive as soon as you put them on, and what looked like a very simple dress on the hanger turned out to be a real knockout that looks effortlessly elegant. All of your eveningwear dilemmas, solved.

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6. THE SPRING BLAZER 

Style Notes: Who What Wear readers will recognise The Frankie Shop's Gelso blazer as it's been a team favourite since it first landed. As much as we've enjoyed the beige, the black, and they grey colourways, something about the sunnier season signifies the re-introduction of colour to our wardrobes, and nothing says "spring" quite like cherry blossom pink. While I was tempted by the full pink three-piece, the hero of the suit is undoubtedly the boxy oversized blazer that you'll wear with everything from maxi dresses to wide-leg trousers, and if you are shopping online there's no need to size up. Frankie Shop have done the hard work and tailored the perfect oversized fit to take out the guesswork. 

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7. THE LEATHER DRESS 

Style Notes: Before you read "leather dress" and immediately rule it out, allow me to explain why this nappa dress is one of the best things I've worn recently. First of all, the quality of the leather. Buttery soft, light as a feather nappa that feels smooth on the skin (and not at all clingy), so if you thought that a leather dress would be a sticky nightmare, rest assured–it's not a possibility. Then there's the shape. a roomy, puff sleeved fit that you can draw in at the waist, or leave flowing and spacious, both equally good options. And finally, the colour. The site describes it as "salmon" but in reality it's more of a creamy peach not too far from nude, but whatever you want to call it, it sure does look expensive, and granted, it is. But one thing you can guarantee about leather is longevity, and while cotton or wool can rip or wear, this polished midi dress will still look as good in 5 years time as it does now. 

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8. THE BALLET FLATS 

Style Notes: We've called it, the ballet shoe is officially the shoe of spring 2023, and while there are more options than ever cropping up on the high-street, it's always better to pay a little bit more for quality that you know will last rather than paying to replace the same pair of flats time and again–enter Le Monde Beryl. Both Tilda Swinton and Alexa Chung have been snapped in Le Monde pumps (and Alexa in no fewer than 4 different pairs), so you know these are a style and a brand that come celebrity approved. 

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9. THE CLASSIC BLAZER

Style Notes: Back to blazers, but this time something a little more classic, Toteme's double breasted jacket. It doesn't get more timeless than camel tailoring, and this slouchy jacket is a little more fluid than the Frankie Shop's Gelso for those who prefer a relaxed fit over structure and shoulder pads. I'm currently obsessed with wide-leg indigo denim, so if I wasn't wearing this with a maxi dress, it'd be a white t-shirt and high-waisted jeans. Trés chic. 

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10. THE KNIT TOP 

Style Notes: Cashmere is always a wise investment, but this springy green cardigan from Gabriela Hearst feels more exciting than another navy jumper. Ever since Katie Holmes singlehandedly upped the cool factor of the cardigan it's been steadily overtaking the crew neck as the knit of choice, and worn slightly unbuttoned with a midi skirt and chunky sandals, you've got an easy spring look that will rise to meet any dress code. More colours please, Gabriela. 

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Up Next, 6 Accessory Trends That Are In for 2023