If you live in a cold climate during the winter (shout-out to all of my fellow Midwest girls) then you know that there’s something extra special about spring when it rolls around every year. The snow slowly but surely melts, the sun stays out a little longer, and the bulky winter coats are washed and put away for another year. Spring’s arrival also means a new slew of wardrobe pieces can be brought out from storage. Warm weather pieces are the perfect symbol of the light and bright mindset that thaws when the season changes. And if you’re already daydreaming about warm weather looks, here’s a list of 23 spring outfit formulas that you can save to prepare!
Spring Outfit Formulas
1. white t-shirt + trench coat + straight-leg jeans + ballet flats + scarf
A trench coat may be one of my personal favorite items to style for spring weather. It’s a chic, Parisian-inspired piece of outerwear that’s ideal for both April showers and May flowers (Carolyn’s got the right idea!). You can dress it up or down, depending on the occasion. No matter what, it will make your outfit look more intentional.
The trench coat is the star of the show in this look, so you can embrace your favorite basics for the rest. A classic white t-shirt, straight-leg jeans in a light wash, and cap-toed ballet flats are the perfect combination for a casual day when you still want to look put together.
Here’s your extra credit opportunity: add a red neck scarf for a final French-approved touch. It’s the perfect pop of color and a fun alternative to a regular piece of jewelry.
white t-shirt | trench coat | straight-leg jeans | ballet flats | scarf
2. floral dress + cardigan + woven tote + sandals
Florals for spring may not be groundbreaking, but there’s a reason that they bloom again when warmer weather rolls around! Enjoy a stroll in your local public garden with a nod to the budding scenery. A floral midi dress will truly never go out of style.
It may still be chilly outside, so add a cream cardigan. If it warms up, you can always toss it over your shoulders. Accessorize with a woven basket tote and leather sandals. This way you have four unique, but complementary textures in your look. Different textures and patterns can take your look from basic to beautiful, and help your outfit appear more complete.
floral dress | cardigan | woven tote | sandals
3. trench coat + blue button-down + white jeans + clogs
If your spring day is calling for a look that toes the line between off-duty and business casual, try a pair of white jeans. They can look slightly more elevated than a regular pair of blue denim, and are a refreshing bright spot after a long winter of darker tones and colors.
On top, style a classic blue button-down shirt. This will put the “business” in business casual, and is forever a great layering piece for in-between weather. Choose a style in cotton, poplin or linen to easily transition this style to summer.
As for shoes, a pair of suede clogs is a great choice. They’re easy to slide on if you’re in a rush and are a great alternative to sandals if there’s still a chill in there (or if you haven’t thought about a pedicure in a while). Complete the look with your favorite trench coat.
trench coat | blue button-down | white jeans | clogs
4. lady jacket cardigan + trench coat + slim jeans + black ankle boots + shoulder bag
Upgrade your favorite cardigan to a lady jacket style for a look that would make Coco Chanel proud – she helped popularize the style in France. The gold buttons help to set the piece apart.
Balance out the elegant cardigan with a pair of slim jeans in a light or medium wash. If you’re headed to brunch on the weekend, this is a great way to make the look a little more casual. Then, add a pair of leather ankle boots. A pointed toe will help to elongate the look of your legs, and boots are the perfect choice for rainy spring weather.
Accessorize with a quilted shoulder bag, your favorite gold jewelry, and an umbrella (just in case!).
trench coat | jeans | cardigan | bag | boots
5. polka dot dress + espadrilles + woven basket bag
Polka dots are a timeless pattern, but this year’s runways say they’ll be an especially big hit again this spring and summer. It’s a playful look and a fun way to add a feminine touch to your favorite outfits. Whether you prefer a mini, midi or maxi style, you’ll look both classic and on-trend.
Style your favorite polka dot dress with a pair of oversized cat-eye sunglasses. They keep the fun vibes going with this look. Espadrille wedges with lace-up ties and a woven basket tote complete the look. Now all you have to do is head to your local cafe for a pastry and cup of espresso for a Parisian-inspired afternoon.
polka dot dress | woven basket bag | espadrilles
6. wrap midi dress + cardigan + hoop earrings + block heels
Wrap dresses are universally loved for their flattering shape. They’ll complement any body type, as well as accentuate your natural waist and figure thanks to the adjustable ties. The cinch around your midsection helps to highlight the smallest part of your body.
Add a cardigan on top for a cozy layer. You could also tie the ends around your waist to further highlight your natural body shape! A pair of simple black block heels and classic gold hoops complete the look – perfect for a daytime date!
wrap midi dress | cardigan | hoop earrings | block heels
7. trench coat + striped sweater + crop jeans + white sneakers + white tee + tote bag
There is a near-endless number of ways to style a trench coat like a French girl. It’s the perfect addition to any spring look if you want to pull it all together. It will even elevate your most casual outfits!
Try this look for a spring day full of running errands. Start with a plain white t-shirt. Then, layer a striped sweater on top. If you want to mix things up, swap out your go-to cardigan for a collared version. It’s the little details that really add personality to your style!
Next, try a pair of crop wide-leg jeans. A crop pair of denim is perfect for springtime, as it allows you to show off your favorite pairs of warm-weather shoes. Ballet flats, sneakers, sandals, etc. all pair well with a crop jean. For this look, we’ll go with a clean pair of white sneakers with minimal branding! French girls love Veja sneakers. Throw on your trench coat for the finishing touch.
trench coat | sweater | jeans | sneakers | tote bag | t-shirt
8. polka dot top + trousers + slingback block heels
Need spring outfit formulas for the office? Bring back the polka dots in a fun (but work-appropriate) way in your blouse. The neutral colors of a black and white top make it great for incorporating in a capsule wardrobe. Plus, it’s the perfect way to add interest to a minimalistic look.
Pair it with a classic pair of trousers in a light color. Add a pair of cap-toe, slingback block heels to tie it all together. Gold jewelry and a claw clip are understated but chic accessories.
polka dot top | trousers | heels
9. white t-shirt + trench coat + woven basket tote + sandals + white sunglasses + slim jeans
Let’s go back to basics for this next outfit idea. Start with the perfect black canvas for spring: slim jeans and a white t-shirt. On top, add your new favorite friend: a trench coat. Accessorize with a pair of leather sandals, a woven basket tote and a pair of white sunglasses for a vintage-inspired touch.
The key to this look is well-fitting, clean basics. Taking care of your clothes goes a long way in elevating your overall appearance. And even better, it doesn’t cost anything! Steaming, ironing, washing, and proper folding will all help to ensure that you look put together, no matter what you’re wearing.
t-shirt | trench coat | jeans | sandals | basket tote | sunglasses
10. striped button-down + white trousers + quilted shoulder bag + sandals
Here’s another look to add to your rotation of spring outfit formulas fit for casual Friday. First, start with a striped blue and white button-down blouse. This piece is ideal for a capsule wardrobe because you can style it year round. In warmer months pair it with shorts or your favorite linen pants, and in the colder months layer it under a blazer or underneath a black dress and tights.
Need more ideas of what to include in a spring capsule wardrobe? We’ve got you covered! Check out our free resource here.
Next, add a pair of white linen pants. A pair with a button in a trouser style elevate them to make them work appropriate, without taking away from the effortlessly chic East Coast vibes of this outfit. Add a structured shoulder bag (Chanel provides the perfect inspo here!) and a pair of leather sandals.
button-down | trousers | sandals | shoulder bag
11. striped tee + gold necklace + cat-eye sunglasses + denim skirt + sandals + tote bag
When the weather’s warm enough not to wear a jacket, try out this next look. Start with a denim midi skirt. A midi version will provide more length for a modest take on the classic mini denim skirt. On top, add a striped t-shirt. It’s the perfect combination for a casual weekend lunch date with friends.
Accessorize with leather pieces like a tote bag in cognac brown and sandals. A gold necklace and oversized black sunglasses complete the outfit.
striped tee | tote bag | sandals | denim skirt | sunglasses | necklace
12. turtleneck + linen pants + sandals
A tonal look is a perfect way to instantly elevate your appearance without much-added effort. Choose a top and bottoms in the same color for a monochromatic outfit that will make you appear put together for an easy spring outfit formula. You can’t go wrong with a bright, white look. And if you’re worried about waiting for Labor Day, don’t be! We believe in wearing all-white looks year-round.
Add texture and another neutral color to your look with a pair of cognac leather sandals.
turtleneck | linen pants | sandals
13. white tee + trench coat + sweater + cuffed jeans + clogs
Here’s another look that proves you can easily put together spring outfit formulas with pieces that you already have in your closet. First, start with your classic pair of blue jeans and a white t-shirt. Cuffed jeans are a great choice if you’re looking to add an on-trend element to your outfit.
Add a trench coat on top for an extra layer against a chilly spring wind. And if you’re still a little cold, throw on a gray knit sweater on top of your shoulders. It’s a chic accessory and an alternative to your winter scarf. A suede pair of clogs round out the look.
t-shirt | trench coat | sweater | jeans (& similar) | clogs
14. striped tee + sunglasses + necklace + basket tote + ballet flats + straight-leg jeans
Spring outfit formulas are the perfect opportunity to channel your inner French girl, and here’s another Parisian-approved look. Start with a classic French-inspired piece, the marinière shirt. The striped marinière style was inspired by the French naval uniforms utilized in the mid-1800s, and then popularized within street style in the 1950s.
Pair your striped tee with a pair of straight-leg jeans, neutral ballet flats, a woven basket tote, and a gold coin necklace. Finish the outfit with a pair of vintage-inspired red cat-eye sunglasses.
striped tee | sunglasses | necklace | basket tote | ballet flats | straight-leg jeans
15. striped tee + trench coat + straight-leg jeans + ankle boots + coin necklace + hoops
We’re not though with striped tees yet! Out of any pattern you choose to incorporate into a spring capsule wardrobe, this might be the most versatile for spring outfit formulas. Black and white stripes are an especially great choice if you want to create the most outfit combinations possible.
Meet your friends for a casual night out in this next outfit. Pair your striped tee with a trench coat, straight-leg jeans, and a pair of black ankle boots. Accessorize with gold hoops, a coin necklace, and a bold lipstick.
t-shirt | jeans | trench coat | boots | necklace | hoops
16. striped t-shirt + necklace + slim jeans + cap-toe flats + quilted bag
Cap-toed ballet flats are the ideal shoe to make any look appear more elegant. This pair gives Chanel vibes, but a pair from Quince may be a more affordable alternative to the designer style. The cap-toe adds interest to the classic shoe!
Pair them with slim-fitting jeans and a striped t-shirt, along with simple jewelry. A pendant necklace and a small pair of hoops are all you need!
long-sleeved t-shirt | flats | bag | jeans | necklace
17. trench coat + striped sweater + white jeans + ballet flats + basket tote
Transport yourself to a picnic along the Seine with this next outfit formula. First, start with a striped sweater. Next, add a pair of white jeans. And next, you guessed it, throw on your new best friend – the trench coat!
Classic ballet flats are an elegant (and practical) accessory – especially if you’re strolling along the water. A woven basket tote bag will hold all of your picnic necessities!
striped sweater | trench coat | ballet flats | jeans | hoops | basket tote
18. black blazer + white button-down + denim shorts + ballet flats + hoops
Don’t be afraid to mix unexpected pairings for new and interesting spring outfit formulas. For instance, juxtapose a professional top (like a button-down shirt and blazer) with a pair of denim shorts for a chic look with plenty of personality. For your shoes, think about the sandwich method. The sandwich method calls for matching your top to your shoes, which we’ll do with aesthetics for this look. Ballet flats complement the professional appearance of the blouse and blazer.
blazer | button-down | shorts | ballet flats | hoops
19. white vest + basket tote + slim jeans + ballet flats + gold necklace
Style a chic look for an Easter celebration using a white vest top. Deconstruct the classic three-piece suit and single out the vest for an easy yet impactful look. Pair it with medium-wash jeans for an elegant, tailored look. A woven basket tote bag, ballet flats, and a simple gold necklace add texture and the perfect number of accessories.
vest | jeans | ballet flats | basket tote | necklace
20. white t-shirt + white sunglasses + slim jeans + basket tote + white sneakers
Some occasions call for the ultimate minimalist outfit formula – t-shirt and jeans. If you’re packing light, it’s the perfect base that you can build on depending on the weather and occasion. For the sake of this look, we’re keeping it simple. Style your jeans and t-shirt with a pair of white Veja sneakers, a woven basket tote bag, and an oversized pair of white sunglasses. Chic looks don’t have to be complicated!
white t-shirt | jeans | sneakers | sunglasses | basket tote
21. oversized button-down + gray tank top + white jeans + sandals + gold necklace
Balance an oversized button-down with form-fitting pieces underneath. This way, a larger piece won’t overwhelm your figure! Start this look with a pair of white jeans and a gray tank top. On top, add your oversized blue button-down. This outfit formula gives off the perfect easy, breezy beach vibes – perfect for celebrating warmer weather.
Accessorize with leather cognac sandals and a gold pendant necklace.
tank top | button-down | sandals | necklace | jeans
22. button-down + pearl necklace + shoulder bag + cap-toe flats + denim shorts
Try mixing high and low in your spring outfit formulas. Cap-toed ballet flats, a string of pearls, and a quilted shoulder bag are your “high” pieces in this look. A pair of denim shorts is your “low” piece and casual item, and a striped button-down is the perfect bridge between it all! Grab a coffee from your favorite local spot and you’re ready for a day of shopping!
cap-toe flats | shorts | button-down | pearl necklace | bag
23. wrap dress + wide-leg jeans + leopard print heels
Hear us out on this next look! Even if wearing a dress over jeans may feel out of your comfort zone, now is the perfect time to try it. Runways for spring and summer fashion in 2025 showed a variety of styles featuring dresses over pants. It’s a fun way to play with proportions, and fashion is meant to be fun! Style your favorite wrap dress over wide-legged jeans with a pair of patterned slingback heels, and don’t knock it til you try it.
wide-leg jeans | wrap dress | leopard heels
French-Inspired Fashion Formulas
French fashion is the perfect inspiration for your spring outfit formulas. Minimal, yet chic Parisian-inspired looks teach us that outfits don’t have to be complicated to put our best fashion foot forward come spring! And the best part is, you can probably recreate a lot of these spring outfit formulas with pieces you already own!
Want more outfit inspiration for 2025? Check out Pantone’s Color of the Year in this post and let it inspire your future looks: How to Wear the Pantone Color of the Year 2025: 9 Chic Outfit Ideas
Have you thought of pulling these together in a printable resource that we could reference? These are great ideas & that would be so helpful!
Glad you like these! We do have something similar to that in our free resource library. Do you have access to that? You can get access by signing up for the newsletter! Hit “subscribe” in the menu bar and you’ll be set 🙂