When you think about spring fashion, what comes to mind? We're guessing, florals. However, for those of us who typically lean into a more masculine fashion style, we’re in luck, as florals were the bottom of the agenda for the spring/summer 2024 fashion shows. While there were a few pretty pastels and a lot of whimsical sheer fabrics, great for having a little fun with, the predominant styles were utilitarian fashion, elevated everyday essentials and plenty of bows on this year's catwalks.
The stand-out hue for this season? Red. "It's the colour of the season, but stick to the ‘pop of red’ motto, just one item is all you need to work this trend," advises fashion stylist, Ellie Ranson. "If the colour scares you or is something new for you, think about your accessories, a red shoe or handbag is a great way to test out a colour but also can work into multiple outfits and be re-worn throughout the years.” Our advice? Try a patterned scarf for a subtle pop of colour.
While trends come and go, it can be fun to channel them when building your capsule wardrobe for the spring season. A capsule wardrobe at any time of year is going to of course contain your basic culprits; a good lightweight coat, a great white blouse, a versatile pair of jeans and a comfortable, yet stylish pair of trainers or flats. If you're looking to invest in some basics this spring — all while channelling this season's best trends — we’ve spoken to the experts and compiled an edit below to help you build the foundations. Expect quality, classic pieces, an abundance of wide-leg trousers, bows on blouses, chic accessories and of course a little flourish of red thrown in.
Return of the high rise
High rise jeans and trousers are back for spring. Arguably one of the most flattering fits for everyone, you'll be seeing them everywhere this season. “I am personally a huge fan of this style and there is a way for every body type to wear these," advises stylist, Keren Beaumont. "For pear and hourglass shapes, the high waist accentuates the narrowest part of the body. For inverted triangles, the wide hemline balances out their shoulders perfectly whilst for the rectangle body type, a pleat front style adds lovely dimension to the hip area. A wide-leg trouser in good fabric adds a certain polish and substitutes brilliantly for a pair of jeans, making a sophisticated point of difference since they work so well with trainers and a t-shirt tucked in.”
How to style it: Try the M&S pleated wide-leg trouser for a transitional mid-weight piece while it’s not quite cool enough for linen.
Blouses and basics
No wardrobe is complete without a great blouse or two, and since black and white was such a key trend for this year’s spring shows, it’s a great time to invest in something new, be it a day to night transitional piece or a more statement fitted shirt. Siena Barry-Taylor, Fashion Expert at Thrift+ says, “A white cotton shirt is classic and a must-have essential in my opinion. It gives the ‘quiet luxury’ trend that has been so dominant already in 2024 and you can style it easily with any colour. Wear it unbuttoned over a camisole top or buttoned and tucked into jeans, for casual yet chic style. A crisp white shirt also pairs perfectly with loose fit black trousers.”
How to style it: For a luxe staple that you'll wear for years to come, Rixo's Eimer Bow-Collar Silk Top is a delicate, feminine blouse that looks just at home in the office as it does on an evening out with your girlfriends.
Lavender Hill Long Sleeve Crew Neck Cotton Modal Blend T-shirt
Transitional layers
Spring can be notoriously hard to get right in terms of dressing appropriately for the weather, as many days boast a combination of glorious sunshine and rainy showers so layers are still necessary. Fatface always deliver on outwear options and for a modern spring jacket we’re loving its Wren Waterproof Coat. But lightweight knits are just as important. "It's no coincidence that most brands offer a cream knitted tank in their spring collections," says Keren Beaumont. "This piece should be a core part of any spring wardrobe due to its practically and versatility. A cream tank is the perfect neutral colour to layer over any solid or patterned shirt or blouse, and works brilliantly worn under a jacket or blazer when it gets too warm to layer up two long sleeved items. It will also look great over your favourite dress until the summer weather arrives. ”
How to style it: We adore Phase Eight’s new Mohair Knitted Tank for the perfect light spring layer or Hush's Hamar jumper for a splash of colour.
Accessories for the season
Bows, bright reds and black velvet trainers, not what you typically expect from spring palettes but super versatile pieces to have in the wardrobe. Amy Owens, from Vendula London, explains that “following on from the popular 'coquette' trend and the demand for romanticised, feminine style, bows are a big trend for 2024.”
How to style it: The M&S flat bow detail loafers offer a classic wardrobe staple that gives a nod to trend of this season and Mint Velvet's loafers from Very are a timeless, wearable piece. There’s no better time to buy once, but buy well.
