This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Bentley chapter.

Spring is finally here. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve been loving the extra sunshine and blue skies lately. This change in weather calls for a change in style. After practically living in sweatshirts and matching lounge sets around this time last year, we’re definitely ready for one! As we transition from winter to summer, spring fashion often gets overlooked, but not this season. Don’t know where to start? Here are 6 Trendy Fashion Essential ideas to add to your wardrobe this Spring!

1. Pastel Cardigans

Spring weather can be unpredictable. This is where light-weight sweaters and button-up cardigans come to the rescue. Simply throw the cardigan over a tank when it is chilly out, and then drape off your shoulder, leave unbuttoned, or around your waist if it gets too warm. These are currently trending in pastel shades such as light sage green, periwinkle, baby pink, and light purple! When searching for cardigan colors, I like to think of emulating the hues of a cotton-candy sunset sky or freshly blooming flowers.

2. Cute Shoulder Bags

From soft-leather pastels to textured cow and zebra print, there’s something for everyone. This spring, expect to see these small bags on the rise! Where better to store your lip balm, phone, wallet, and sunglasses? I find that a statement bag is the perfect way to carry any day-time look into the evening. Simply throw a cute bag over your shoulder, and you’re good to go! This a trend you’ll want to tote around next time you’re headed out for an afternoon café stop, walk in the city, or evening date-night.

3. Straight-leg Jeans and Flared Pants

What I love about jeans is that they are timeless and come in so many great styles. From light wash denim to patterned pants, I’ve noticed the baggier, looser fitting straight jeans and flared pants are in trend this season. Why settle for just style when you can choose both style and comfort? Dress up any denim bottoms with a silk top, strappy open-toed heels, and a statement purse…or dress it down with a comfy zip-up hoodie and your favorite pair of sneakers or platform shoes.

4. Basic Tanks and Silk Tops

Whether worn on their own with layered necklaces or thrown under a zip-up hoodie or light-weight blazer on brisk nights, ribbed tank tops are a Spring staple. I recommend having both neutrals and pastel shade options on hand. Similarly, silk and satin-like material blouses and halter-tie-up bandana tops are in the fashion forecast and I am so here for it! These come in endless colors, patterns, and styles such as cropped v-necked, balloon-sleeved, and ruffled, so you are sure to find springy tops that match your style. Pair your favorite tank or top with a tennis skirt, joggers, or jeans to complete this look!

5. Layered Gold jewelry

I’ve always been a sucker for jewelry, but recently I’ve been loving the layered gold look! I like to follow a rule of three here. First layer: a simple short chain necklace (such as a snake chain). Second layer: a medium-length chain either thicker or thinner than the first. And Third layer: a long-thinner chain with a dainty charm in the middle (such as a heart, mini padlock, butterfly, initial, or coin pendant). By mixing and matching textures and sizes, you can create a unique, yet trendy accessory look to spice up any outfit.

6. Funky Sunnies

Lastly, you can instantly boost any spring outfit (and your confidence) by simply throwing on a pair of sunglasses. As you’ve probably seen floating around the internet, unique shades are trending and making quite the statement. This spring, you could reach for colorful clear rectangular-eye lens, stylish tortoise-shell frames, bold black cat-eyes, or even retro-vintage round sunglasses. Protecting your eyes has never been so fashionable.

Now get outside and enjoy the springtime weather in style!

Still need inspiration? Check out the following photo links:

6 Spring Fashion Trends