10 Spring Clothing Essentials and Trends

Spring is the perfect time to try out new trends and fashions. After you’ve done your yearly spring-cleaning and you’re looking to add something new to your wardrobe, keep these pieces and trends in mind. You don’t have to completely re-invent your style just to try out these trends. Gradually introduce the change by adding one or two of the following clothing pieces.

1. Lightweight Duster Coats: As much as we’d hate to admit it, just because it’s spring doesn’t mean the weather is amazing enough to step outside without something covering your arms. Duster coats are perfect for spring because they allow you to stay warm, but not hot. The key is to stick to lightweight fabrics that will allow your body to breathe. Like cardigans, you can layer them over anything to complete any look. A patterned one or one with a pop of color can transform any basic outfit and make it look effortlessly flawless.  

2. Denim/Chambray Button Ups: Aside from all the basic button ups and blouses in your wardrobe, you should definitely have a denim or chambray button up. What better time to try out the denim on denim look than the springtime? You can wear denim shirts open and unbuttoned as an extra layer in place of a cardigan. You can also wear them buttoned up under pullover sweaters. On the days when you don’t feel like getting too fancy and you just want a simple outfit, wear them with patterned leggings.

3. Shift Dresses & Skater Skirts: Definitely hold onto your maxi dresses and maxi skirts, but if you haven’t already, add some shorter dresses and skirts to the mix. Shift dresses don’t hug your body, so you’re allowed a lot more breathing room when you’re getting through your busy days. Keeping with the theme of effortless outfits that are amazing, these dresses are perfect standing on their own or layered underneath outerwear. You should definitely try a skater or circle skit this spring. If it’s too short, wear a pair of tights underneath. They are very girly and flirty and move gorgeously with your body. 

4. Boyfriend Jeans & Ripped Skinny Jeans: You know you’re dying to try a pair of boyfriend jeans! These jeans are a little harder to master because of the fit, but once you find the perfect pair, never let them go! You can definitely pair it with more fitted tops, but don’t be afraid to try on an oversized tee with these jeans as well. As long as the look is done correctly, you’ll avoid looking like a your clothes don’t fit properly. Ripped jeans aren’t going anywhere. However, shy away from the completely distressed and destroyed denim. Try a pair with a simple slash on each knee. This is a great way to show a little skin before the summer months. It may not be a lot, but a little goes a long way.

5. Jumpsuits & Rompers: If you take about two seconds and throw on a jumpsuit or a romper, you pretty much have a completed outfit for the day. Use these pieces to play around with color and patterns. They come in many different lengths and styles and you can dress the look up or down. If you’re not ready to commit fully to wearing dresses and/or skirts, make the transition a smooth one by trying out a jumpsuit or a romper.

Speaking of experimenting with patterns, spring is the perfect season to try some new ones. In the words of Miranda Priestly (Devil Wears Prada), “Forals? For spring? Groundbreaking.” We get it, spring is when the flowers begin to bloom and everyone’s ready to blossom. However, stay a step ahead of the crowd and try a new trend this spring. Experiment with prints other than floral. There are so many other prints you could’ve missed! These aren’t the only trends you’ll see this spring; they’re just a few that are the complete opposite of those that we usually see around this time. 

6. Stripes: Stripes are making their way onto the scene this spring. Instead of plain old vertical and horizontal stripes, pick up a piece with stripes that zig and zag or even curve and loop. Make sure you stay away from an all-out striped outfit. For example, try to stay away from the Beetlejuice two-pieces that popped up a couple years back. One striped article of clothing is enough for your ensemble.

7. Grid: During prior seasons the grid patterns stared to trickle onto the runway. However this season, it’s in full effect. You can go either way with this pattern: bold or delicate. The thicker the lines, the bolder and stronger the grids will appear. The thinner the lines, the more delicate and feminine the look will be. Either way you choose to go, have fun with the pattern.

8. Gingham: This trend may be a little bit scary. If you opt for a red and white gingham pattern, you do run the risk of looking like you’re wearing a picnic blanket. However, the gingham pattern in pastels or neutrals can be a lot better! Also, go for a more muted pattern; one that looks like the boxes are beginning to fade into each other. This look is a lot more wearable. Another option would be pieces with bigger boxes. They definitely take away the picnic blanket vibe.

9. Monochrome Trend: If you’re someone who despises color, but still wants to be on trend this spring, monochrome is the way to go. The clean black and white color palette oozes sleek and sophistication from start to finish. You’ll look so polished without even putting in much effort into your look. Of all the trends mentioned, this one may be the most universally wearable. Literally anyone can pull off this trend! Who doesn’t look good in black? 

10. 70’s Trend: Calling all boho babes! Subtle hints of the 70s era will be seen this spring. Notice the emphasis on “subtle.” Don’t go full out That 70’s Show, but you can take a few hints and inspiration from Jackie and Donna’s wardrobe. This trend explains why you’ll see tons of denim on denim, groovy patterns, flared pant silhouettes and maxi pieces. If you’re not into the whole boho look but you want to give this trend a whirl, try wearing earth tones like mauve and tan.

If you decide to try any of these trends, you don’t have to stick to them. Use this spring as a time for you to experiment; try a whole bunch of looks that you never thought you’d try. It’s always easiest if you introduce the change in moderation. Start with one solid piece from a category, then try a patterned one, or simply move to the next if it didn’t work for you. It’s all about trying new things; it’s completely harmless fun!

• spring essentials