8 Easy Spring Outfits That Work Every Single Time

Trends encourage us to think outside the box when it comes to our personal style—to try new things, be it colours, prints or silhouettes, to keep our fashion fresh. But sometimes, it really does pay to rely on the classics—the looks and pieces that stand the test of time. This is particularly true when you find yourself feeling less than inspired with your wares as we head into the new season.

Just this morning, I stood gazing into my wardrobe, head tilted to one side, wistfully contemplating what I should be wearing now that spring has sprung. In an attempt to get my fashion juices flowing again, I subsequently sat myself down at my laptop and set myself the task of unearthing some chic, classic spring outfits that will make getting dressed an easier endeavour.

Fast-forward a few hours, and I’ve discovered eight classic spring outfits that are elevated yet highly efficient in that they take minimal effort to style. Even better still, I suspect you’ll already own the majority of pieces you’ll need to re-create them with, as none of the items featured feel too trend-specific. Of course, the shopping is there should you need it, but if you take anything from the below, I want it to be a revived excitement for the season ahead.

From pretty puff-sleeve dresses to white collared blouses, all the way to the shirt that’ll breathe new life into your trusty jeans, scroll on to see eight classic spring outfits that work every time.

1. TRENCH COAT + JEANS + BASEBALL CAP

Classic Spring Outfits: @kaytiemo wears a trench coat and jeans

Photo:

@kaytiemo

Style Notes: When it comes to the British spring uniform, what could be more classic than a trench coat? Use yours to instantly elevate your jeans, and then try adding a baseball cap for current styling flair. 

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This H&M trench is perfection. 

This hat also comes in black if, like me, you’re worried about foundation stains. 

It doesn’t get more classic than blue straight-leg jeans. 

2. KNIT CO-ORD + BOOTS + GOLD HOOPS

Classic Spring Outfits: @thandimaq wears a yellow knit co-ord

Photo:

@thandimaq

Style Notes: Knitwear is integral to our springtime wares. Make it feel as current as it can by wearing it by way of a trending skirt co-ord. 

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Make your knitwear feel even fresher by opting for a bright hue, such as Kelly green. 

Is there no outfit a gold hoop can’t improve? 

3. STRIPE SHIRT + WHITE JEANS

Classic Spring Outfits: @sasha.mei wears a mint striped shirt and white jeans

Photo:

@sasha.mei

Style Notes: 2023 is shaping up to be the year of the shirt, as many fashion people have already bought and begun wearing various bright iterations. For a classic take, look for shirting with vertical stripes—I love how Sasha Mei has paired her mint-green shirt with white jeans for peak outfit freshness. 

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Claw clips will unlock lots of hairstyle options for spring. 

In case your white denim needs a refresh. 

4. MINIDRESS + KNEE-HIGH BOOTS

Classic Spring Outfits: @raeannlangas wears a printed mini dress with knee boots

Photo:

@raeannlangas

Style Notes: Although my heart is ready to embrace mini hemlines, my head knows better. I always feel the chill, so instead of jumping right into wearing short skirts with sandals, I phase myself in gradually, first losing the tights and then finally getting to a point where I’m wearing them with socks and loafers. 

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I tell you this is the year I'll finally invest in this best-selling jacket. 

This skirt will easily work with black tights. 

5. DENIM JACKET + JEANS + FLAT SHOES

Classic Spring Outfits: @fakerstrom wears a denim jacket and dark jeans

Photo:

@fakerstrom

Style Notes: Double denim was a big deal on the spring/summer runways; IRL, don't be afraid to pair different denim hues with one another—the results can be very impressive. 

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No need to size up—this jacket has a perfectly relaxed fit. 

I keep seeing mid- to dark-blue jeans right now. 

6. BRIGHT KNIT + COLLARED BLOUSE

Classic Spring Outfits: @basma_k wears a bright red knit with a collared blouse

Photo:

@basma_k

Style Notes: Spring still calls for layering, and one of my favourite combinations is taking a winter knit and styling it with a collared blouse—the collar lying over the top, of course. Basma Kahie makes hers feel all the more seasonally apropriate with a bright, joyful knit. 

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This bubblegum colour is trending hard for 2023. 

I have a thing for white blouses, and this one is next on my wish list. 

There’s always time for a gold earring. 

7. JUMPER + TANK TOP + SLIP SKIRT

Classic Spring Outfits: @sylviemus_ wears a black slip skirt with a white vest

Photo:

@sylviemus_

Style Notes: Slip skirts have year-round appeal, but my favourite time to wear them is during spring. Weather paired with a T-shirt and suede jacket or, indeed, a sweater wrapped around your shoulders and a racer vest top, in my opinion, it doesn’t get chicer than that. 

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A handy layering piece in any wardrobe. 

H&M is always my first stop for affordable basics. 

This slip skirt is weightier than you might think, and that’s the reason it hangs so beautifully. 

8. FLORAL DRESS + GILET

Style Notes: And finally, if you’re ever in any doubt, rest assured that denim and florals will always be in style. The easiest way to wear this hard-working combination is by way of a gilet and floral midi dress, as Claudia Berresford demonstrates. 

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I didn't know I needed a denim gilet until I saw this style. 

Again, just add grey socks in the meantime.