With spring is on the horizon now is the perfect time to review the transitional staple items in your wardrobe. These are the pieces that bridge the ‘in between season’ gap when it comes to dressing and can be relied on time and time again, for years to come.
These staples can help to freshen up your looks and will provide endless styling opportunities as they can be mixed & matched, dressed up or dressed down. Some are definite basics that never date, where as others are a little more trend led, but without being too obvious and will modernise and add edge to your wardrobe in an understated way.
Get these items right now and you can be sure that you have a well thought out core wardrobe ready to style any future impulse or statement purchases in different ways throughout the next coupe of seasons.
All items are linked below but if anything takes your fancy and you prefer to shop pre loved/vintage then please do use for inspiration.
Checked Blazer
Oversized tailoring is back and a firm influencer favourite. Not only can a blazer add edge to a simple jeans and a T-shirt look it can also act as a chic cover up for smarter occasions.
Styling tip;
If oversized tailoring isn’t your bag or you are petite and can often feel drowned, avoid any blazers that are described as ‘relaxed fit’ online, or size down a couple of sizes if possible instead. Alternatively, opt for a more classic, slimmer fit style instead.
Rolling or pulling up the sleeves and securing with hair bobbles at the elbow is an effective way to add extra detail, while showing off wrists and ankles to add a feminine touch to a more masculine feeling piece.
Leather Trousers
These vegan leather joggers are so versatile when it comes to dressing up or dressing down, they can take you from day to night by simply switching from trainers to heeled mules.
Styling tip:
Team with a neutral hoodie, quilted khaki jacket & trainers for a relaxed look that is perfect for mums on the go. A white T-shirt & blazer with chunky loafers provides a chic & modern outfit that can effortlessly take you from laid back office attire to evening drinks.
Hoodie
We all love a hoodie and often see them as something to slob around the house or go to the gym in, however investing in a great quality, neutral version will be such a versatile addition to your everyday wardrobe.
Style with:
Leather joggers and oversized blazer with trainers. Try tucking the front into looser fitting trousers to balance out your proportions unless you are blessed with super long legs, or alternatively look for a more cropped fit.
Colour Pop Trainers
Think of your favourite colours and find them combined in a trainer for an instant dopamine hit.
Styling tip:
Let the trainers do the talking by teaming with a simple black jersey midi dress or kick flare raw hem jeans, white t shirt & black leather blazer.
White T-shirt
A classic crew neck t shirt will lift darker colours and add instant freshness to your outfit.
Styling tip;
French tuck (tucking the front in loosely so the back drapes down casually), roll the sleeves up and add a layered necklace to elevate it from basic into something more interesting.
Denim Jumpsuit
In my opinion jumpsuits are the most straightforward and easygoing item to wear to make you feel cool yet relaxed & stylish while not sacrificing on practicality and comfort. This mid blue denim number is perfect for spring and autumn temperatures.
Styling tip:
Layer high neck printed tops underneath and pair with platform boots for a nod to 70’s dressing.
Motif Necklace
Keep the positive vibes coming with these motif necklaces, the ideal pick me up accessory and can make a lovely gift.
Styling tip:
Layer up with one or two more thin necklaces of different lengths to break up any neckline and add interesting textures.
Cotton Knitwear
Cotton knitwear is my favourite way to add a pop of colour to your spring wardrobe. I particularly love how low maintenance they are due to washing well and rarely bobbling so you know that it is an investment well spent.
Styling tip:
The slightly cropped length will sit well with high waisted bottoms such as the leather joggers & khaki trousers, or layer over dresses for added waist definition.
Metallics
Sliver, gold & bronze accessories are my go to recommendation for investment pieces as they can be worn with virtually everything, from day to night. Belts, footwear, bags & jewellery can take basics such as black straight leg jeans and a simple t-shirt from understated to funky & fresh.
Styling tip:
Don’t be afraid to mix your metallics for a more eclectic look, including jewellery. Gone are the days where silver can be only worn with silver – if you like it, then wear it I say!
Striped Top
The classic Breton stripe originated in 1858 when the French navy were given them as uniform, the design consisted of 21 stripes, one for each victory by Napoleon Bonaparte. Coco Chanel then launched her nautical collection inspired by the uniform which catapulted the design into mainstream wardrobes, and to this day it is a firm staple in most of our lives. There are so many different versions of the design but they never fail to look effortless, yet chic.
Styling tip;
Stripes and florals are the easiest way to begin to play round with print clashing, look for a relationship between the two prints such as a navy based floral design in a skirt teamed with a classic navy Breton.
Shacket
As spring unfolds ditch the winter coat for a soft and cosy teddy shacket to keep you cosy while enjoying lighter layers.
Style with;
Khaki trousers, stripe top, beanie, trainers & cross body camera bag.
Khaki Trousers
Khaki trousers are such a great alternative to jeans, combining comfort, a relaxed aesthetic and endless options for styling colour combinations.
Style with:
T-shirt’s or light knitwear in pastel shades in complimentary colours (opposite on the colour wheel) such as pink & lilac and analogous colours (side by side on the colour wheel) like lemon will give these trousers all the spring feels.
Balance out the colours by lifting with white boots or trainers for added freshness and finish off the look with a black blazer.
Western Boots
Noughties revival means a return of the western boot (of course the noughties wasn’t the first time that they have been popular!). Classic black will go with everything but the off white bring a fresh feel for spring.
Style with:
Bare legs with dresses and pretty much anything else that you fancy!
I hope you enjoyed reading and this gave you some inspiration for the coming weeks & months ahead.
Love Laura x