When those blustery winter days finally come to an end, it’s truly something to celebrate. Gone is the season of snow, ice, and single-digit temperatures. We can finally get out of our heavy coats and be comfortable leaving our homes again. If you don’t have a good set of spring basics, switching out your winter wardrobe for warm-weather pieces can be a struggle.
Whether you’re looking to add to your collection or need to build up your wardrobe, we’ve got all the spring essentials you need to make the transition.
Jackets
Though the temps do warm up when spring rolls around, that doesn’t mean that you won’t need an extra layer from time to time. For those days when a bit of chill is still lingering in the air, keep a lightweight jacket close by to warm up or stay dry.
Denim
A denim jacket is a great essential to have on hand for any season because it can easily be paired with pretty much anything. They’re especially perfect for spring, though, because they add a layer of lightweight warmth that won’t make it feel like you’re still lugging around a winter coat. You can easily incorporate a denim jacket into your look for the whole day, or throw it on or off when you need to.
Utility
A lightweight utility jacket is the perfect touch to any spring outfit. They’re effortlessly stylish and offer a few different options when it comes to how you style them. This particular jacket has snap closures and a high collar for times when you really need to keep the wind out, along with roll tab sleeves to stay cool and comfortable.
Rain
If there’s one item you need to have when spring rolls around, it’s a rain jacket. Unexpected rain showers are a pain to deal with, and this option from ethical fashion brand Everlane is classic and lightweight, perfect for carrying with you or keeping in the car. It’s also the perfect length for keeping your outfit dry with snap closures to help keep the rain out.
Shop jackets:
Tops
Gone are the days of heavy sweaters and thick flannel (sometimes much to our dismay). Instead, spring is a time for fun colors and light layers that you can build up when you need to.
Basic Tee
If you’ve been looking for a classic, lightweight shirt, Madewell’s Whisper Cotton Crewneck Tee is perfect. From the first wear, it’s feels like a shirt that you’ve had for years: incredibly soft, airy, and drapey. It’s also available in a range of neutral shades that’ll pair perfectly with any outfit.
Denim Button Down
A good, light denim shirt is an essential piece to have in your closet, especially when spring rolls around. The long sleeves offer a little warmth on chillier days, but the fabric is typically lightweight so you won’t feel weighed down. You can roll the sleeves up for a more casual look or wear them down for something more classic.
Eyelet Top
Whether you’re heading to an outdoor party or taking a stroll around your local zoo, this eyelet top is the perfect addition to your spring wardrobe. Casual yet polished, it’s a simple shirt that still makes a statement with the eyelet detailing. Pair it with jeans and flats for a day out or with dressier pants and a heel for a stunning outfit to wear to the office.
Bell Sleeve Top
Spring is all about light pastels and breezy, flowy silhouettes, and this light blue top is the perfect embodiment of the season. Bold and feminine, the bell sleeves add a dramatic touch while the white stripes give it classic look, making this shirt an unexpected upgrade of the standard striped button-down.
Shop tops:
Bottoms
It’s not truly necessary to switch between different pants for winter and spring, but there are certain styles that tend to make more sense when the weather is warmer and brighter. Switch from heavy corduroys and knits to lighter and brighter fabrics this season.
Dressed Up Jogger Pant
Whether you’re running weekend errands or it’s a more casual day at the office, these upgraded jogger pants are the perfect way to look comfy yet put together. The front pleats give them a dressier touch, but the stretchy waistband and cuffed ankles will keep you cozy all day long.
Casual Boyfriend Jean
These will be your new favorite warm-weather jeans with the classic style and cropped ankle. Cuff at the ends for a retro yet contemporary vibe, and pair with a simple t-shirt and sneakers or strappy sandals to look and feel cool and relaxed.
White Skinny Jean
Most people don’t reach for a white jean during the winter months, so spring is the perfect time to incorporate them back into your rotation. If you’re worried it’s a style you can’t rock, we can pretty much guarantee this mid-rise version from Old Navy will flatter everyone.
Shop bottoms:
Dresses
When the sun is out and the weather is warm, dress season is truly back in session. Winter dresses are great with layers, but spring dresses are brighter, bolder, and made to stand out on their own.
Midi Dress
If you need a dress that’s perfect for an outdoor spring event, this eyelet midi dress is the one. The design is simple yet stunning, giving off a flowy spring vibe that can still be dressed up. It’s available in seven different colors, so everyone can find an option that’s perfect for their next party.
Knit T-Shirt Dress
For more casual days, a t-shirt dress is a great option to have in your closet. The material is soft and comfortable, keeping you cozy all day long while offering a slightly fitted look for effortlessly chic style. Wear it alone or pair it with a denim jacket and baseball hat for a cool, relaxed touch.
Floral Dress
Spring is all about the florals, and this fun flowery dress is perfect for any occasion. Especially on cooler spring days, the long sleeves and knee-length hem will help keep you stay comfortable in any setting. The tiered bell sleeves are a feminine touch that’ll make this dress a gorgeous go-to.
Shop dresses:
Accessories
The right accessories are important for any season, and spring is no exception. From hats to shield from the sun to the perfect bag to tote outdoor-event essentials, accessories for spring should be cute and functional.
Hat
A Panama-style hat is a classic that’s perfect for spending the day outside, whether it’s at the beach, in the park, or even just at a backyard barbecue. The style is simple and can be paired with virtually any outfit, adding a cool and casual touch to your style.
Scarf
This lightweight scarf is perfect for days when you need a scarf but don’t want to bundle up in a heavy knit option. It’s a great everyday scarf that can be worn all day long or just as a little extra protection against the wind when you need it.
Bag
No one wants to lug around a huge bag at an outdoor event, and this adorable tassel bag is perfect for holding only the essentials while still giving you the room you need. It also has a long strap to make carrying it all day easy—either over your shoulder or as a crossbody.
Shop accessories:
Shoes
When it comes to transitioning your wardrobe from winter to spring, it’s truly all about the shoes. Tuck those heavy-duty boots back in your closet until next season and get ready for sandals, strappy booties, and fun sneakers.
Slide Sandal
A simple sandal is the perfect option for a casual day, but many of us need an upgrade from our $2 pair of flip flops. These slides go with virtually everything, whether it’s a flowy dress or a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. They’re also available in a few different colors so you can find a pair that’ll work with your wardrobe.
Spring Bootie
Booties aren’t just for winter, but the pair you’d wear when there’s snow on the ground might feel a little too stuffy for spring. These eyelet booties are the perfect taupe gray to go with any outfit, and the cutouts give them an airy feel that’s perfect for warmer weather. The low heel also makes them a comfortable option for any outdoor or indoor event.
Block Heel Sandal
Spring weather means the return of strappy sandals, but we don’t just mean flats. These block-heeled sandals can be worn casually or with a dressier outfit, perfect for a day at the office or attending an outdoor party. The heel is also just the right height to keep your feet comfortable all day long.
Fashion Sneaker
Spring showers tend to sabotage plans of wearing fancier footwear, so having a good pair of sneakers on hand for rainy days is crucial. These classic adidas sneakers are a go-to for any spring weather conditions and are perfect for anything that requires a more casual shoe, whether it’s running errands or just hanging out in the backyard.