Words by Danielle Whiteman
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Am I the only one who feels like it’s been the longest winter ever?!
The good news is that it’s officially Spring on 20th March and with the days starting to get lighter and longer, it’s only a matter of time until we pack away that winter wardrobe!
When transitioning between seasons, it’s so easy to buy into passing trends, but I find it’s better to buy less trend led pieces and more essential pieces to create a capsule wardrobe where everything works together. Otherwise you end up with a wardrobe full of ‘fleeting fashion’ that won’t stand the test of time.
So, with a capsule ‘Spring Transitional Wardrobe’ in mind, here is a run-down of my fashion suggestions…
1. The Classic White Shirt
A classic white shirt is an absolute spring staple – particularly in view of the unpredictable great British weather – and as luck would have it, they are actually having a moment in the fashion world right now! Nothing quite beats a crisp white shirt in spring and H&M have a great purse-friendly option with their Oxford Shirt £17.99. To style, try layering under a logo sweatshirt or knitted top for that preppy look, or a half tuck into a tailored, belted, black trouser for a simple workwear look. A key part of your capsule wardrobe, you can take a white shirt from day to night so easily and it’s something that will be in your wardrobe for years to come.
2. The Ecru Denim Jean (aka. natural, undyed denim)
Ecru denim is a perfect addition to your spring wardrobe. While you may feel daunted by a light, milky denim, it’s simply a case of finding a style and cut that suits your individual body shape. A great shape that I find super flattering, is a fit and flare high rise jean and I love these Boden, Ultra High Rise Wide Leg Jeans £76. They’re a vintage-style, button-up, wide leg jean in the most perfect milky hue. Monki also do a super pair with their Yoko High Waist Wide Off-White Jeans, £40.
Stylist tip: When buying denim, don’t be afraid to cut the length yourself to make it work for you. I’m always cutting the extra length off my denim!
3. The 90s Denim Midi Skirt
I know I said try to not to succumb to too many trend-led pieces but that doesn’t mean avoid them altogether – we’re only human! My fashion take-out this month is that nothing screams Spring 2023 like the denim midi skirt. The high street has become flooded with 90’s style denim midi skirts in all washes – from classic blue to bleached and there are a few that I really like. The first is this And Other Stories, Long Frayed Edge Denim Skirt, £85. And the second is Mango’s, Slit Denim Skirt £45.99. A good mid-length, maxi skirt is a seriously stylish way to switch up the seasons, whilst adding a much needed style injection into your wardrobe. When it comes to styling this trending piece, I’d recommend dressing down the look. Try pairing with trainers and a graphic tee/sweatshirt, or go full double denim and heels for evening glamour. You’ve gotta love a piece that can transition from day to night.
4. The Knitted Dress
Even though we are coming into a new season, I can assure you it’s not the end for knitwear. The spring High Street has been flooded with knitted midi dresses in light wefts and bright colours. Knitted dresses are an awesome alternative as we move towards warm weather that’s not quite summer-weight fabric weather. You can also layer these up if the weather takes a momentary chilly turn – but let’s try not to think about that! I love this gorgeous Matcha-green, fine knit, Mango, Ribbed Long Dress, £49.99. This look is an absolute no-brainer for me. Pair with a muted trainer and trench for an easy put together look. It’s a great addition for dopamine dressing and super flattering on all different body shapes.
5. The Cargo Shacket
On the topic of trends, you may have noticed that cargo is having quite the moment in the form of the 90s cargo pants. To be honest, I’ve never found the added bulk of pockets on the leg to be my best friend, so a smart way to buy into this trend with something that will take your wardrobe further is to go for a good cargo cotton shacket.
A new, small, British brand called WAT The Brand have the perfect option with their The Ultimate Cargo Jacket, Khaki £85. Tailored perfectly to flatter all shapes and sizes, it’s made with layering in mind, meaning there’s enough room inside to carry you through the seasons. I love the slightly flared sleeve detail as it really elevates the style and makes the overall look feel much more high-end. Warehouse have another version of this timeless style with their Cotton Utility Jacket, £59.40. Both are perfect picks for your capsule wardrobe.
6. The Trench Coat
Possibly the hardest working capsule piece – the trusty trench coat. The trench is the perfect coat for Spring, providing an extra layer that’s lightweight and not bulky. It’s a piece with great longevity as it will be a permanent fixture in your wardrobe year after year.
For that chic, nonchalant, but perfectly put together, daytime look, one of my favourite ways to style a trench coat is to layer over jeans, shirt and/or a fine knit/sweatshirt in similar tones. For the ultimate (but very pricey) trench, I love this modern twist on a classic Jigsaw, Oversized Cotton Trench Coat, £355. But you don’t have to spend anywhere near that to get perfection. Check out this ASOS Design, Longline Trench Coat, £65.
Although there are so many other wonderful pieces you can add into your collection this should give you a few key starting blocks for your transitional wardrobe. Let me know if you spot anything I haven’t!
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Danielle Whiteman
Stylist
@danniiwhiteman
