Shed the layers: what to wear this spring

Spring usually feels like a much-welcomed refresh, with the change in weather bringing a cheering increase in hope and happiness. But this year those feelings are even more powerful than normal –  lockdown is easing, the arctic temperatures are rising and, dare we say it, there’s even a smidgen of optimism in the air. 

But what does this new season mean for your wardrobe? When joggers, hoodies, and slippers have been day-today staples for more than a year, it means a lot of things. It means losing the chunky clothes that characterised months of winter lockdown. It means breaking out of your comfort zone – literally and figuratively – by finding pieces that aren’t all elasticated waists and baggy silhouettes. It means embracing lighter fabrics, a paler colour palette, and a slimmer, more streamlined fit. So let’s get to it…

Chore jackets aren’t the newest idea, but they are on the radar of the best-dressed once again for a reason. As the perfect lightweight layering item, this utility-inspired outerwear piece looks great dressed down with a sweatshirt (you don’t have to lose all elements of loungewear quite yet), or worn with a shirt. Pick core colours like khaki, burnt orange or navy, and kick monochrome rotation into gear.

The mere act of lacing up a pair of shoes probably felt like a profound and proud moment during the last year, especially if you’re partial to being barefoot indoors. So, if you’re looking for something between an actual pair of shoes and a bare foot, try a new season sandal. Even if you just wear them at home or in the garden as the weather starts to warm up, they’re a great way of testing the water. Try Birkenstocks, for an on-trend tried-and-tested favourite.

It’s all too easy for deep, dark colours to become our default winter setting. That changes now, folks, with brighter, lighter days encouraging us towards brighter, lighter shades. This isn’t about wearing head-to-toe yellow, but instead about attempting to pick things that are just a shade or two lighter than you’re used to – a brighter blue, a lighter green, a stronger orange.  

After 365+ days of pure comfort, ease yourself gently out of comfortwear with pieces that can replace the old faithfuls without entirely shocking your system. With that in mind, we’re advocating baggy waistbands, loose legs and an all-around relaxed silhouette when it comes to your bottom half. Great brands to look out for are Community Clothing, Albam Utility, and It’s All Good Folk.

And if all of the above feels like way too much, worry not. There are smaller changes you can make if you’re not quite ready to let go of your lockdown favourites just yet. Treat yourself to a brand new pair of sunglasses for the season ahead – something that you can wear all the way through the summer – in a classic shape that you’ll still love next season. We’re also strong advocates for headgear – you'll need a baseball cap to shield your eyes from the cheery warm sun of spring, after all.