Spring is that magical time when our days get a little longer, the sunshine feels a tad warmer, and our closets beg for a refresh. Yet, figuring out what to wear in this in-between season can be a real challenge. Too cold for sleeveless yet too warm for wool? Cue these 10 tried-and-true staples that never go out of style — but always find a way to stay current.

If this article topic looks familiar, I rewrite it yearly, keeping the same top 10 suggestions. But, I update all the options each year. The point is that the classics really don’t change and make great, long-term additions to your wardrobe!

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1. The Signature Floral Dress

There’s something about a floral pattern that instantly evokes a sense of new beginnings. Whether you prefer tiny blossoms or oversized blooms, a floral dress can be your go-to piece for everything from brunch to bridal showers.

  • Style Tip: This year, look for interesting silhouettes like puffed sleeves or belted waists — details that give a modern spin to the classic print.
  • Fresh Finds: Farm Rio offers bold patterns if you love making a statement, while Oliphant’s cotton styles provide a breezier, romantic feel.
A woman stands against a beige backdrop, showcasing a sleeveless floral print dress with a square neckline and belt. It's a perfect addition to your spring wardrobe essentials, offering a modern spin on classic pieces.Pin
Knits are on trend, and this floral dress by Farm Rio is a knit floral dress that you can carry into fall with a jacket and boots. Find it here for $230. Image: Farm Rio
A person in a white dress adorned with blue floral patterns stands gracefully in front of a red door against a white wall, embodying the essence of a fresh spring wardrobe.Pin
Perhaps it’s because I just got back from a sun-filled beach getaway, but almost everything in this article is either blue or white. And this is a color palette that will shine every single spring. Sprinkle in your reds, your pastels, your color du jour, and this color palette will always support it. This dress adds a little lilac and is perfectly feminine and easy to wear. Find it HERE for $328. And, like all Oliphant dresses, there are multiple shapes and lengths, all made from the same fabric, making it easy to find a shape that looks good on your unique body! Image: Oliphant

2. The Wear-Everywhere Denim Jacket

As soon as winter coats become too heavy, the denim jacket reclaims its crown as the perfect layer. A slightly relaxed shape — rather than ultra-fitted — feels very current and allows for easy layering over chunky sweaters.

  • Style Tip: If the double-denim look feels daunting, opt for contrasting shades. For instance, wear a light-wash jacket with black or colored jeans.
  • Fresh Finds: Madewell excels at that “favorite vintage jacket” vibe, and Paige has refined silhouettes in super-soft denim that won’t restrict movement.
A person with an afro hairstyle embodies a modern spin on classic pieces, donning a light blue denim jacket and white pants, standing against a plain background. This look serves as a perfect addition to your spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
This vintage-feel denim jacket by Madewell is a classic shape that could have been purchased in a variety of decades, including today. The shape lends itself well to adding a layer to dresses as well. Find it HERE for $128. Madewell had multiple shapes and denim wash options this season, as seen HERE. Image: Madewell
A woman, embodying spring wardrobe essentials, dons a cream-colored buttoned jacket over a white knit sweater and dark jeans. She stands against a plain white background, showcasing classic pieces with a modern spin that define timeless elegance.Pin
This is a beige denim jacket with a raw hem, and if you have denim jackets and are looking to add another wear-all-the-time one that’s a bit different, this may be the one. Again, the shape is just right for wearing with skirts and dresses as well as with pants. It’s a bit cropped but not too short. Find it HERE for $249. Image: Paige

3. The Ever-Chic Trench Coat

A trench coat isn’t just iconic; it’s downright practical. Whether you face drizzly mornings or breezy afternoons, a well-made trench keeps you covered while elevating any outfit beneath.

  • Style Tip: Consider a slightly shorter length that hits just above the knee, offering easier movement and a casual twist on the classic cut.
  • Fresh Finds: Sézane delivers timeless Parisian flair, and Everlane offers a sustainable spin on the classic in organic cotton fabrics.
Sezane classic trench coat camelPin
Nothing beats a camel trench coat in the most classic shape, with a wide collar, buttons, and belt. Find this trench above HERE for $305. If you are looking for an oversized size trench, another classic shape, in the same color and great quality, with a checked lining, see that one HERE. Both are water-repellent. Image: Sezane
womens cotton modern trench coat new cornstalkPin
Everlane also makes a great classic trench with a slightly different shape and design than the Sezane above. This one also comes in four different colors and can be found HERE for $188 (regularly priced at $268). Image: Everlane

4. Crisp White Jeans or Chinos

White pants herald the arrival of spring like nothing else. If you’ve struggled with finding the perfect fit, try on several silhouettes — from wide-leg to slim-straight — and don’t forget that white chinos can be a graceful alternative to denim.

  • Style Tip: Balance out a more voluminous pair of pants with a fitted top, or embrace the oversized trend from head to toe by pairing your wide legs with a boxy blazer. Also, there are waaaaaaay more options for “ecru,” “ivory,” and “off-white” pants this year. If this is your preferred color of white, it’s your year to buy some pants!
  • Fresh Finds: PAIGE has polished wide-leg white denim with a raw hem (for a bit more casual look), while Frank & Eileen’s well-cut chinos are great for those who just can’t seem to ever find white jeans that they love. The Ripley Rader pants are beloved and need to be included here as well.
Person wearing a cream fluffy sweater, white wide-leg jeans, and beige heels, showcasing a modern spin on classic pieces. They're posing against a plain light background, exemplifying spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
I chose these white jeans for a big reason: everyone LOVES them! This style comes in a full 15 different colors and washes, but look at each colorway as the raw hem and pockets do change depending on which color you pick. For the white denim, it’s a raw hem and classic pocket. These are 27″ long (but also come in a 31″ length for tall gals like me – but in the ‘tonal ecru’ only – aka off-white). Find them HERE for $239. Image: PAIGE
A person in white pants and black slippers stands on a stone path in a garden, effortlessly showcasing Spring wardrobe essentials with a modern spin.Pin
Transparently, I can’t wear these Frank & Eileen chinos as they have a 25.5″ inseam which is too short for me (again, I’m tall). However, so many of my friends swear by these chinos and look so great in them that I confidently recommend them. They come in a slew of colors, are made with Italian performance twill, and have that perfectly casual look that still says “put together.” Find them HERE for $288. Image: Frank & Eileen
A woman in a white two-piece outfit, a modern spin on classic pieces, stands against a plain white background. She poses sideways, looking towards the camera, with long hair draped over her shoulder. This ensemble is truly one of spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
These white pants are uber-flattering and completely classic for work, church, or something a bit dressier. With a high waist, wide leg, and thick ponte knit fabric, these pants are workhorses for your closet. They have a long inseam, so petites may need to have them hemmed. Find them HERE for $198. Image: Ripley Rader

5. A Polished Navy or White Blazer

A blazer instantly elevates your look, whether tossed over a sundress or paired with jeans and a tee. Navy and white remain steadfast spring favorites thanks to their endless versatility.

  • Style Tip: This season, consider a blazer with subtle shoulder shaping or even gold-tone buttons for a slight nod to nautical style.
  • Fresh Finds: Tuckernuck continues to impress with tailored cuts, while Quince offers wallet-friendly versions with clean lines.
A person wearing a white blazer over a blue dress poses against a plain background, blending classic pieces with a modern spin.Pin
Quince is known for lower-priced everyday items that remind us of higher-priced brands. This linen white blazer is also available in navy, sand, and black and will instantly elevate any outfit. Find it HERE for $79.90. Image: Quince
A person poses in a navy blazer and striped shirt—classic pieces given a modern spin with blue jeans, gold shoes, and a woven handbag—creating an ensemble perfect for spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
Nautical is always, always, always on-trend for spring, and as the cold air is replaced with warm sunshine, it’s somehow fresh each year. This navy blazer will take you from spring through summer and will still be in style decades from now. Find it HERE for $198. Image: Tuckernuck

6. A Classic Blue-and-White Striped Tee

Stripes transcend trends, and a blue-and-white palette screams, “Spring is here!” Whether you’re heading to the marina or simply running errands, it’s the piece that never disappoints.

  • Style Tip: Experiment with a blouse instead of a tee for more variations of style. Some people prefer that looser fit and a blue and white striped blouse is a complete classic.
  • Fresh Finds: La Ligne is known for its modern striped designs, and Tuckernuck often carries a playful range, from fitted tees to relaxed button-ups.
A person donning sunglasses, a blue and white striped long-sleeve shirt, and denim shorts stands confidently against a plain background, showcasing modern spin on classic pieces perfect for any spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
Few things are as versatile as a striped long-sleeve tee in spring. Pair with floral, bright colors, muted colors, and white jeans … wear with shorts or with dress pants under a blazer. It’s as comfortable on a beach as it is running errands or at the office tucked in. Find it HERE for $88. Image: Tuckernuck
A person sporting sunglasses and white pants stands confidently against a neutral background, exemplifying modern spin with a striped t-shirt and matching sweater draped over the shoulders—a true nod to spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
A navy and white striped short sleeve tee is one of those things that when you find the right cut and the right size stripe, it’s magic. This tee has all those things. I prefer a navy collar to a white collar on these tees, which can be hard to find. And, matching it with this wider stripe sweater? Gorgeous. Find it HERE for $115. Image: La Ligne (… and that sweater can be found here for $250.)

 

7. The Midi Skirt for Every Occasion

A midi skirt deftly toes the line between coverage and flirty fun. It’s also surprisingly adaptable. By day, wear it with sneakers and a denim jacket, then swap in heels and statement jewelry for the night.

  • Style Tip: Look out for asymmetrical hems or slits that give a classic skirt silhouette a bit of edge.
  • Fresh Finds: Sezane has a fresh take on leopard, while Tory Burch has some classic options for spring as well.
leopard skirtPin
Sézane’s take on the leopard midi is fresh and fun. Leopard is a classic, but there are so many different leopard patterns. This one will carry you through summer and into next year’s cold weather with ease. Find it HERE for $150. Image: Sézane
A woman in a beige short-sleeve button-up dress, a modern spin on classic pieces, holds a brown handbag, showcasing her spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
When you hear “poplin skirt,” you think “spring fashion,” right?! This midi-length Tory Burch skirt comes in this classic soapstone color, and the possibilities here are endless. Find it HERE, on sale, for $349. (It’s also available in black for $548). Image: Tory Burch

8. The Breezy White Dress

If you’ve ever panicked about what to wear on a balmy spring day, allow me to introduce (or reintroduce) the white dress. It’s a blank canvas ripe for accessorizing — or keeping minimalist chic.

  • Style Tip: Elevate a simple white dress by adding a colorful belt or bold statement earrings. If it’s still cool outside, layer with a trench or a denim jacket.
  • Fresh Finds: Reformation offers eco-friendly options with feminine details, while Tuckernuck consistently delivers breezy cotton silhouettes in various lengths and sleeve styles.
Person in a sleeveless white top and skirt, adding a modern spin with hands on hips against a neutral background, complemented by black shoes.Pin
This linen dress by Reformation – known for sustainability – is a two piece dress, so your options just majorly increased for how to wear this! It comes in black, red, and white. If you are between sizes, opt for the smaller size for this dress. Find it HERE for $298. Image: Reformation
Woman in a white button-up midi dress with crochet details at the hem, standing with hands in pockets, wearing nude slide sandals. A modern spin on classic pieces, perfect for your spring wardrobe essentials.Pin
If you have something dressy to attend this spring (but do NOT wear this as a wedding guest!), how lovely is this dress?! Sea of New York makes beautiful garments that somehow stay on trend for years and years. This is one such item. Find it HERE for $445. Image: Tuckernuck

9. An Army of White Tees

The humble white tee might be the unsung hero of every closet. Spring is the perfect moment to refresh your collection because we all know how quickly those whites can lose their luster!

  • Style Tip: Don’t be afraid to size up for a slightly boxy shape that looks great tucked into high-waisted bottoms.
  • Fresh Finds: Everlane, Buck Mason, and COS all have budget-friendly tees in soft, sturdy cotton, each filling a different roll in your styling needs.
everlane t shirt whitePin
I’m not sure when I won’t be showcasing this exact same t-shirt from Everlane! It’s micro ribbed and works so perfectly well under blazers, tucked into skirts, worn with pants and jeans … it’s classic and is so comfortable. You know what I mean if you have this in your closet already. And, if you do, you likely wear it enough that it’s time to get a new one (or two). Find it HERE (it comes in 10 colors) for $40. Image: Everlane
Person with long wavy hair wearing a white t-shirt and jeans, epitomizing spring wardrobe essentials with classic pieces given a modern spin, standing against a black background.Pin
Making its debut here, the Buck Mason Pima Boxy Crew white t-shirt is going to be plenty of readers’ favorite tee, and here is why: it’s just the right length of your high-waisted jeans that we all seem to be in no hurry to give up; the sleeve length is just right – not too long, not too short; it’s extremely soft; it’s the t-shirt you want to throw on every single Saturday. Find it HERE for $45. Image: Buck Mason
A person exudes a modern spin on classic pieces, standing with hands in pockets, wearing a white t-shirt and black pants against a plain background.Pin
If you are looking for a white t-shirt that you truly can tuck into your pants and wear to work and have it not be see-through at all, with no need to feel like you need a blazer to go with it, this is your tee. It’s thick; it’s well cut; it hides a lot of your upper arms. Find it HERE for $45. Image: COS

10. Versatile Espadrilles

Few shoes capture the laid-back joy of warmer weather like espadrilles. The woven jute sole instantly transports you to sidewalk cafés or seaside strolls, no matter where you actually are.

  • Style Tip: A wedge style elongates your legs when wearing skirts or cropped pants. For a more casual spin, slip into a pair of platform espadrilles with shorts or flowy dresses.
  • Fresh Finds: Castañer remains a beloved classic for wedges, and Soludos offers playful embroidery and easy slip-ons for a fun twist.
Three pairs of beige espadrille wedge sandals on display, featuring ankle straps and varying designs, including peep-toe and closed-toe styles, offer a modern spin on classic pieces—perfect spring wardrobe essentials against a plain background.Pin
Neiman Marcus carries a large variety of arguably the most classic espadrille shoe brand of all time: Castaner. Made in Spain, these will always be in style for any warm-weather occasion. Find them HERE, starting at $165 in a wide variety of heel heights. Images: Neiman Marcus
Four espadrilles with striped patterns in red, blue, and black variations on a white background add a modern spin to your spring wardrobe essentials.
Soludos is another well-known espadrille brand with a variety of fun colors, patterns, and flat styles. Find these HERE starting at $79. Image: Soludos

Wrap-Up

As you map out your spring style, remember that consistency doesn’t have to mean repetition. These 10 items truly earn their place in your closet year after year, but each season brings new nuances in color, silhouette, and detail. Here’s to welcoming spring with open arms — and a wardrobe that perfectly balances timeless style with a fresh perspective.

Happy dressing!

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Liza Graves
About the Author
Liza Graves

As CEO of StyleBlueprint, Liza also regularly writes for SB. Most of her writing is now found in the recipe archives as cooking is her stress relief!