At last: it’s spring! And that means your thickest, heaviest pieces can make way for lighter, more colorful options. Since it’s not summer yet, this is the time to develop a strong transitional wardrobe.
“Spring is the perfect time to lean on your wardrobe’s foundational pieces and style them in fresh new ways,” says stylist and fashion expert Naina Singla. “Your favorite denim? Pair it with a lightweight knit and sleek loafers. Your go-to blazer? Try throwing it over a simple tank and flowy midi skirt. Even your classic white button-down can get a spring update: wear it with tailored shorts or layered over a slip dress.”
If you need a more well-defined formula, prioritize balance: “It’s all about pairing one statement piece—like a denim or fringed jacket—with two versatile staples. Think wide-leg jeans and a fun top. Then finishing with one accessory that pops—like bold heels or a chunky necklace,” says Stitch Fix stylist Ramon Sorstokke.
If you’re in need of concrete examples, want to try trendy colors and fabrics, or just don’t know where to begin, below are 13 ideal outfits to wear in April.
Powder Pink
Getty
A pretty, delicate pink is a dominant color of 2025, and it’s easier to wear than you’d expect. You can wear it in the same way you’d style a white or tan jacket, like this. For a softer look, “a powder pink lightweight knit paired with coordinating pink trousers is a fresh and sophisticated outfit choice. Or to make it feel more modern, balance it with grounded neutrals,” says Singla. “Pink works so well with burgundy and brown,” adds stylist Jordanna Sharp. “A pink cardigan paired with denim and burgundy accessories is an easy and elevated color pairing for this transitional period.”
Polka Dots
Getty
“A polka dot dress is a playful and stylish trend to try,” explains Singla. “This timeless pattern is having a major moment, making it the perfect way to experiment with prints in a way that feels both classic and on-trend.” The size of the print will determine the aesthetic: a smaller dot will look more feminine and delicate, while a bigger and bolder print (like this dress) looks “heavier” and more substantial. This is perfect if you’re in the market for a single statement dress to take you through 2025, adds Singla.
Butter Yellow
Getty
As an alternative to white, butter yellows and creams are extremely luxe-looking. “This soft, warm hue is a fresh take on neutrals, adding some brightness while being versatile,” says Singla. If you want to start small, you could go with a tank top or tee. “You could also try a cardigan paired with light blue denim and chocolate sandals for an earthy, balanced look. For a sharper contrast, style it with ecru or cream jeans and add black accessories like a black clutch and kitten heels,” says Singla. Or, “pair it with shades of brown — a yellow pant paired with a brown blazer, brown bag, and brown shoe,” says Sharp.
A New Denim Shape
Getty
If you’ve been tempted at all by recent denim trends, this is the year to give them a whirl. “Spring is a great time to switch up your denim and try a new silhouette. Whether it’s a wide-leg jean, a relaxed trouser style, double denim, or even a barrel leg, a fresh shape can instantly update your look,” says Singla, adding, “If you’re hesitant to step out of your comfort zone, keep the rest of your outfit simple. You can pair a new denim style with pieces that feel true to your personal style, like a classic tee, a structured blazer, or your favorite sneakers. That way, you’re experimenting with something new without changing too much all at once.”
Trench Coats
Getty
Trench coats are already a spring staple — but if you’re looking for new ways to style them, “try layering them over a light blue button-down and a black miniskirt for that perfect mix of polished and cool. Add a black handbag and black flats to keep it sleek and put together,” says Singla. Adds Sharp, “For a crop trench outfit, pair with a simple thin knit crewneck sweater, tucked into a wide leg pant, and add a belt and a flat Mary Jane. For a longer trench coat, pair with a button-down tucked into a straight-leg denim and a loafer.” You could also keep it belted and wear it as a dress, like this.
A Suede Jacket
Getty
If you want your outerwear to be a bit more upscale, try a suede jacket. “This season, suede is trending, and it’s a great way to add texture to your wardrobe. Style it with a white tee, straight-leg jeans, and loafers. For a more elevated take, layer it over a flowy midi dress with ankle boots or strappy sandals. You can also pair it with tailored trousers and a lightweight knit,” says Singla. If you’re trying to layer strategically (like with this cropped brown version), you can opt for a half-zipped look.
A Modern Jean Jacket
Getty
According to Sharp, “A staple piece I recommend to clients is a denim jacket. For a modern feel, it works better if it’s slightly cropped and a little boxy. It pairs perfectly with a more fitted cardigan, a loose elastic waist pant (satin bias pants are perfect here), and a ballet flat.” You can also go with a full Canadian tuxedo, like the outfit above. To replicate the look, wear a button-down underneath that peeks out at the collar and cuffs.
A Cinched Top or Blazer
Getty
It’s so chic to cinch a jacket with a belt, scarf, or tie. That includes a short-sleeve version, like this, so long as the belt is small and in a similar color (in this case, metallic gold). “When paired with barrel or straight-leg jeans, this creates a polished spring look. Elevate the outfit with statement earrings and classic ballet flats for a perfect balance of that structured and relaxed vibe,” says Singla.
Cool Corporate-Wear
Getty
Get ready for your work clothes to get a major upgrade. Stitch Fix deems this trend “Corporate Renaissance” coinciding with return-to-work policies (I say that if you have to go back to an office, you might as well wear something fun!). “For your workwear, April is the perfect time to swap out heavy coats for a structured blazer in unexpected hues like pink or purple,” notes Sorstokke. “Pair your blazer with wide-leg trousers, a style that’s surged 400 percent year-over-year on Stitch Fix. And if you’re feeling bold, step into the office with kitten heels that add a pop of personality.” You can also mix and match — including adding in some trendy polka dots under a checked blazer.
Pretty Purple
Getty
If you’re looking to “springify” your wardrobe, opting for lighter colors like pastels is an easy tactic. “Wisteria is having a major moment,” says Sorstokke. “This dreamy yet sophisticated shade of purple is popping up everywhere, from blazers and statement dresses to handbags and other accessories.” If you’re unsure if a lighter hue is for you, start with an accessory like this headband. Lilac tights and shoes are also gorgeous and work well with the aforementioned trending light pink.
Western Details
Getty
Western pieces are still a popular street style item; Stitch Fix deems it “Ranch Revival.” A fringed jacket, like this, is a great everyday piece: you can layer it on top of a boho dress or a tee and jeans. But these pieces are also awesome for a night out. “Think fringed jackets, sleek denim with Western-inspired details, and cowboy boots paired with everything from dresses to tailored pants,” says Sorstokke. “With Beyoncé’s tour sparking all kinds of high-glam fashion moments, don’t be afraid to mix rhinestones, metallics, and dramatic silhouettes.”
Breathable Layers
Getty
Depending on where you live, you might still be dealing with drastic temperature changes. Try to balance fashion and function: you can opt for lighter layers, like this, laid creatively for a cool effect. “April is the perfect month to mix and match your winter pieces with lighter options. We can start working in spring colors with some of the darker tones we’ve been wearing during the previous season,” says Sharp. Vacation-worthy pieces, like linen and crochet, are also a nice pick: “Think airy crochet cardigans to throw on during breezy evenings, or layer a linen shirt over a knit tank,” says Sorstokke.
Pump Up Your Accessories
Getty
“Accessories are one of the easiest ways to refresh and elevate your look for spring. Whether it’s statement sunglasses, a bag in a trending color, or a belt with gold hardware, the right details can completely transform an outfit,” says Singla. At the very least, you can start to switch out your darker accessories with lighter versions, like this cornflower blue Miu Miu bag and patent maroon slingbacks. Singla adds, “A printed scarf tied around your neck or handbag adds a chic touch, while bag charms or unique jewelry bring personality and playfulness.”
Read the original article on InStyle
