9 Spring Wardrobe Staples That You Won’t Regret Investing In

After a prolonged period of frigid winter temperatures, the prospect of waking up on a warm spring day is a welcome change for anyone. But shifting into a new season doesn’t come without its own set of challenges, as transitioning our wardrobes can be, well, time-consuming, to say the least.

Even if you’ve spent weeks fantasizing about the end of winter, it’s super-common to find yourself standing in front of your closet, stressed out over figuring out how to dress for moderate temperatures again. In those moments of doubt, it’s normal to wish you had a personal stylist who could help you discern what basics are worth adding to your spring wardrobe. Thankfully, celebrity stylist Mickey Freeman has heeded that call.

“I define staples as any pieces that have the potential to be versatile enough to be worn across different seasons,” Freeman tells InStyle. But he’d argue that building a capsule wardrobe goes beyond just buying a few basics, but investing in items that allow you to build confidence in yourself (and your style). “Never be afraid to make mistakes. Embrace imperfection, as it is a crucial part of growth and evolution in your style. Adopting this mindset will encourage you to experiment and discover what truly works for you during the season,” he says.

The secret to embracing a more curious approach to your closet is to play dress-up as often as possible. “I always encourage my clients to try on different pieces together and experiment with color combinations, even those they wouldn’t usually consider. It is a fantastic way to rediscover their wardrobe, and it can help inform future style decisions and lead to a more defined personal style,” he says.

Ultimately, experimenting is an essential part of curating an arsenal of spring staples that work for your lifestyle; however, if you’re unsure which exact pieces to start incorporating into the mix, keep reading. Ahead, you’ll find nine spring wardrobe staples with Freeman’s stamp of approval and will surely gain yours with time, too.

Trench Coat

When it comes to dressing for transitional weather, it’s imperative to have a few layering items that can be worn throughout the season. Enter trench coats into the chat. “Ideal for layering, trench coats or cropped jackets add a stylish touch to any spring outfit,” Freeman explains. While there’s no shortage of ways to wear this spring staple, the stylist recommends: “Try pairing this outerwear with an empire waist dress featuring a plunging neckline; they allow for a tasteful showcase of skin while enhancing the feminine and flirty aesthetic. Emphasizing the décolletage elevates the overall look, and adding a cropped jacket enhances the ensemble, making it perfect for casual outings and chic events.”

Tailored Vests

Another essential that’s worth adding to your spring arsenal? Tailored vests. While suiting separates have always been seen as seasonless, Freeman emphasized that they’re one of spring’s best items. “Tailored vests easily transition between different seasons because they’re easy to layer with other items. Styling a waistcoat underneath a blazer, on top of a lace blouse, or worn alone adds a layer of sophistication to any spring wardrobe. It’s also one of the most flexible items worn to work or off-the-clock.”

Flared Trousers

After months of wearing thermal leggings, it’s normal to want to opt for something a little breezier for spring—flared trousers are the perfect solution. Not only will this more relaxed silhouette provide you with a much-needed break from thermal underpinnings, but as Freeman explains: “Flared trousers create a flattering silhouette by providing volume without overwhelming an outfit, they can easily be dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.”

Wedges or Heeled Sandals

Stepping into a new season requires you to consider not only what apparel is missing from your closet but footwear, too. Although you can find ways to style boots throughout the warmer season, heeled sandals or wedges are essential spring staples. “These stylish shoe choices not only can transition your closet into the new season, but they can also help elongate your legs, allowing you to show off some skin this season. Their combination of comfort and height makes them perfect for pairing with dresses or shorts, ensuring you stay fashionable and comfortable all spring long,” Freeman emphasizes.

T-Shirts

If only one item could be considered the backbone of a stylish spring wardrobe, it’s undoubtedly the T-shirt. You can’t underestimate how a good t-shirt can transform your entire spring wardrobe, as it can be styled with everything from jeans to shorts to skirts. According to Freeman, the key to finding a version of this staple with those superpowers lies in paying attention to the details. “Consider looking for versions of this staple with shoulder pads, as this trendier silhouette is making a comeback and offers a chic way to add structure to spring outfits. Opting for a T-shirt with a modern twist will allow you to create a striking balance between casual and polished,” he says.

Mini Skirts

When temperatures finally rise, the last thing you want to wear is a pair of pants; therefore, you must have at least one mini skirt you can put on for those balmy spring days. If you want to ensure this staple is weather-proof, “Opt for mini skirts in materials beyond denim, such as chiffon, cotton, or silk,” Freeman shares. One of the benefits of going for this basic is that it can make any outfit more weather-appropriate and, as Freeman says, “doing so can introduce exciting textures into your ensemble.”

Flat Sandals

In addition to having one footwear option that works for formal settings, you want your capsule wardrobe to include a more functional flat sandal for the season. Freeman’s sandal of choice? Birkenstocks. “With new styles and colors, these sandals blend comfort and style, making them a go-to footwear option for spring. They pair well with everything from beachwear to casual dresses, ensuring comfort without sacrificing style,” he says. Of course, if you’re not a fan of that particular style, he recommends going for any other type of flat sandal that suits your preferences.

Tote Bag

It’s easy to assume that curating a capsule wardrobe that’s functional enough for everyday life ends with choosing the proper apparel and footwear, but that’s simply not the case. Paying attention to your handbag collection is also imperative, as Freeman explains. “A tote bag is essential for spring because its spacious design and timeless appeal combine utility with fashion. It’s the one item you can wear for every spring occasion, from city outings to beach trips to shopping excursions.” Whether you opt for this staple in an oversized leather or luxe raffia variation, you won’t regret adding it to your wardrobe.

Floral Dress

Last but certainly not least, the spring item that’s undeniably a must-have staple is the floral dress. “While it might seem cliché, a simple floral dress perfectly captures the season’s essence,” Freeman says. Floral prints remain a perennial part of spring fashion, so adding this staple to your wardrobe is always a safe bet. However, if this pattern doesn’t speak to you, Freeman recommends investing in a spring dress in a bold animal print or a vibrant color (whatever style suits you best). Ultimately, the secret to successfully shifting your closet into the new season is less about shopping for specific staples but finding what speaks to you: “If you do that, you’ll ensure that you have a vibrant and dynamic wardrobe for the months ahead,” Freeman says.

Read the original article on InStyle