Spring is a tricky season to navigate if you live in the UK. As I type this, the sun is streaming in through my window and I'm sitting here in a T-shirt, but we've been warned that there's all-day rain and stormy gusts set to swoop in tomorrow. I'm constantly torn between packing on the layers and leaving my trusty knitwear at home—and the range of outfits I've passed on the street lately tells me I'm not the only one. I've spotted everything from shearling coats to denim shorts this past week alone. But I'm trying to adopt a positive attitude—maybe if we dress for milder temperatures and blue skies, Mother Nature will get the hint and deliver the weather we've been longing for.
Care to join me in manifesting a heatwave? Below, I've collated eight effortless looks that will help you leave winter firmly in the past. They're all light on the layers and feature some classic summer fabrics (think linen and cotton) but don't worry, you won't end up shivering on your way to work. Featuring spring-appropriate outerwear and the occasional knit, these outfits—courtesy of Instagram's most stylish—strike the perfect balance. Plus, they can be easily adjusted as we continue into the warmer months. Scroll on to see for yourself.
1. Denim Jacket + Midi Skirt + Mules
Style Notes: Denim is the ultimate spring fabric, especially in 2023 when the Canadian tuxedo is having something of a renaissance. If you're hesitant to double up on the material, pair your denim jacket with a minimal midi skirt like Sylvie.
Shop the Look:
Agolde's denim is made to stand the test of time—you'll be wearing this key style for many springs to come.
You can't go wrong with a knitted midi skirt.
Thanks to that block heel, these mules look comfier than most.
2. Gilet + Classic T-Shirt + Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: We can finally wear gilets sans a classic T-shirt underneath. Bliss! I'll be taking note from Melissa of Rue Rodier and styling mine with some faded dark-wash denim and a pair of glossy loafers.
Shop the Look:
The perfect throw-on piece .
Update your wardrobe staples for 2024.
Faded black jeans are a mainstay of my year-round wardrobe.
I'm convinced everyone should own a pair of glossy leather loafers in their footwear collection - they go with almost everything.
3. Two-Tone Double Denim + Leather Boots + Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: Newsflash—double denim is cool now. Especially if you incorporate it into a laid-back outfit, like Javi's tee, jacket-and-jeans combination. Fashion people across the globe will be stepping out in this dynamic duo all season long, mark my words.
Shop the Look:
This closet essential lends itself to a variety of outfits; style with colour-popping accessories or keep it minimal.
Stuck between straight-leg and wide-leg jeans? Tapered cuts are a chic median of the two.
Boots aren't just for the autumn/winter, they make a great spring shoe too.
A shoulder bag is an essential, and I love this stye's pocket detailing.
4. Trench Coat + Linen Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: If you hadn't already guessed from the treasure trove of trench coats landing in stores lately, this enduring style is having a major moment. If it feels too early to start sporting linen trousers, rest assured—a trench coat will fix this. Finish off the classic look with a pair of old-school Converse.
Shop the Look:
This trench coat has my heart.
Every warm-weather wardrobe needs a selection of basic tank tops.
Carry these lightweight trousers into the summer months.
Time has shown that Converse will never date.
5. Striped Shirt + Maxi Skirt + Trainers
Style Notes: A striped shirt is a year-round staple, but this breezy style is particularly relevant when the weather starts to warm and we can ditch the bulky layers. I love how Marilyn has kept hers casual with a jersey maxi skirt and Adidas trainers.
Shop the Look:
Treat this as a layering piece when it's cool, wear it on its own when the sun comes out.
This is an affordable hero piece you won't regret investing in.
Scoop up these trending kicks before they sell out (again).
6. Cardigan + Cotton Dress + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: It's still a touch too soon to walk out in nothing but a cotton dress and sandals, but you can start wearing them now with the right styling. Simply add a complimentary cardigan and stick to closed-toe shoes for the time being. Ballet flats are a particularly current choice.
Shop the Look:
You'll get so much wear out of this timeless cardi, making it well worth the investment.
Such a romantic piece.
Such a good suede bag option from the high street.
If you're just beginning your ballet flat journey, start with a simple neutral pair.
7. Tweed Co-Ord + Sheer Tights + Slingback Flats
Style Notes: When you're seeking a quick and easy outfit solution without compromising style, you won't find better than a co-ord. Perfect for this time of year; they'll keep you looking effortlessly sleek and put-together..
Shop the Look:
Spring isn't all about colour and florals, opt for a chic yet eye-catching weave, like tweed, into your outfit.
I love the fringed hem.
The fun twisted detail sets this tee apart.
A versatile pair of slingback flats will go with so many outfits
8. Utility Jumpsuit + Slides
Style Notes: When we said a co-ord was the easiest outfit option, we briefly forgot about the jumpsuit. This all-in-one look is especially fitting for the UK's current temperatures; I'll be layering a biker jacket on top to beat the occasional chill, or choosing one of the long-sleeved iterations I've spotted.
Shop the Look:
A chic take on a utility jumpsuit.
The braided top handle brings a flare to a minimalist silhouette.
These comfy slides come in five earthy shades.
Main image: @ruerodier
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New YorkPared back yet never boring.
