
Spring’s Effortless Style Updates
- Words by
- Frankie Graddon
- Photography by
- Eva K. Salvi
- Edited by
- Laura Fantacci & Petro Stofberg
- Makeup by
- Emma Broom
- Hair by
- Chris Long for Dyson
Stripes are evergreen, and the chances are you already have plenty in your wardrobe. Make them feel fresh by teaming striped separates together in a head-to-toe look. While this season is pushing bolder, wide stripes, a fine pinstripe can often feel more approachable. Think about layering a classic button-down with drawstring trousers for a look that’s pulled together but not overly corporate.
Amid the excitement of new-season colours, silhouettes and prints, it can be easy to overlook the smaller details. However, a considered luxe accessory has the ability to entirely elevate the most pared-back of outfits. A case in point is Loewe’s Featherlight Puzzle bag – a fresh interpretation of the design signature made from supple leather for soft slouch. The perfect minimal belt comes via Toteme – add it to tailored trousers or denim.
When it comes to jewellery, an artfully curated ear is an impactful yet wearable finishing touch. An alternative to mixing hoops with huggies is to reach for a sculptural ear cuff. This singular statement introduces a sense of modernity to classic pieces and instantly adds a cool edge. The best part? No additional piercings necessary.
Utility is a key look this season and has been interpreted in various forms from jumpsuits to cargo trousers. Perhaps a little more unexpected is the utility mini skirt, but consider it a versatile spring transformer. Worn with your Breton, it takes classic spring dressing in a fashion-forward direction. When doing shorter lengths, flats or low heels feel more contemporary than heels.
Although it’s an enduring spring classic, suede feels particularly relevant this year and makes for a smart styling choice when dressing for in-between temperatures. An overshirt delivers on versatility: sandwich it between a light spring knit and trench coat on cooler days; wear it open over a T-shirt as it warms up; layer it on top of a white cotton dress in summer. Classic tobacco tones are chic, but consider a paler, sandy hue for additional springy appeal.
The appeal of co-ords shows no sign of waning in terms of both style credentials (matching separates were hugely popular on the catwalk this season) and real-life practicality – reaching for co-ords is one of the easiest ways to get dressed. If you’re in the market for a new set, tap into the utilitarian mood and opt for a chino-inspired duo in a versatile sandy tone. A pop of colour works well here – try a red suede thong sandal.
Black leather isn’t an obvious go-to for spring, but the mild shoulder seasons are the perfect time to wear it. So, before it gets too warm, take this as your cue to bring your leather jacket out of the wardrobe. Or switch things up with a leather mini skirt – the combination of sleek leather and bare skin being undeniably chic. Khaite’s version feels cool, yet luxurious, and can be worn into autumn with chunky knits. For now, double up with a trophy leather shoulder bag.
Sunglasses aren’t just a practical touch as we move into sunnier weather, they can also be a quick and easy way of updating your existing spring looks. This season, light frames are on the agenda, so pack away your classic tortoisehell and black frames (for now) and reach for wire-rimmed sunglasses in your silhouette of choice.
Spring outfits don’t come much more effortless than a jumpsuit. A utility-inspired style has enduring appeal and lends itself to versatile everyday styling; wear casually with sleek trainers, polish it up with loafers. Not all jumpsuits are created equal, so for maximum ease, look for a relaxed fit with a soft waistband. A cropped-leg pairs especially well with sandals.
Among the myriad bag styles under the spotlight this season, the longer East-West shape has caught our eye. Elegant in tone but big enough to be practical, Neous’ Baguette will seamlessly take you from day to evening. Carry it as a clutch or use the strap to wear it over your shoulder. Oxblood will give depth to light neutrals now and can be teamed with richer autumnal tones next season, too.
Spaghetti-strap sandals have been in the spotlight for a few seasons, so they’re certainly a safe style to invest in. While they’ll give a chic, ’90s touch to your spring occasionwear wardrobe (simply add to your favourite dress for wedding-guest season) get more mileage from the style by leaning into high/low dressing and wearing them with denim.
If this season proves anything, it’s that the trench continues to be the pinnacle of timeless style – and the ultimate spring layer. If you’re considering making a new investment this year, a gently oversized silhouette worn loose, rather than belted, feels current and has throw-on ease. As for what to wear with it? Double denim is a go-to, whatever the season.