The arrival of spring is exciting for many reasons, sartorial and otherwise, but welcoming, sartorial-friendly weather is high on our list. Not just the ability to wear a dress, but the ability to do it without tights. Of course, summer dress season is still a few months away, but in the meantime, we're celebrating the slightly warmer temperatures by ditching the stockings and making dresses the basis of our April outfits.
Although one of the benefits of wearing a dress is that most of your outfit is made up of one item, it's still worth putting some thought into your look. By adding a few statement accessories or an interesting layering piece — and changing up those finishing touches each time — you'll keep your dress from looking like a one-off wonder.
Looking for spring outfit ideas to recreate for the new season, I took to Instagram and was immediately greeted with post after post showcasing polished dressing style. Featuring some of the biggest trends for Spring/Summer 2024 while being easy to wear and comfortable, the following six looks were included in my “inspiration” file without hesitation.
1. Knitted vest + white dress + clogs
Style Notes: White cotton dresses are expected to dominate the warmer months, but until the sun comes out regularly, I'll be wearing mine with knit and closed-toe shoes.
Shop the look:
Jigsaw
Cashmere crew-neck tank top | Black
You will constantly find new ways to wear this knit.
Look at me
Long dress in smocked cotton poplin
Birkenstock
Soft Boston suede leather insole
There's nothing cozier than these Insta-famous Birkenstocks.
2. Ribbed dress + raffia bag + pastel sneakers
Style Notes: It wouldn't be spring without a dose of color, and this ribbed dress in soft lilac is subtle enough that even minimalists can get behind it, but bright enough to lift your spirits.
Shop the look:
Dorothy Schumacher
Ribbed-knit wool-blend midi dress
What a beautiful spring shade.
COS
Wristlet pouch – Raffia
The perfect holiday clutch.
New balance
Pale pink 2002r sneakers
These would also look great with an all-white outfit.
3. Trench + long dress + knitted flats
Style Notes: All this talk about color, and here we are with a dark and brooding look. But with Monikh's masterful style (plus some very on-trend elements), I couldn't help but include it.
Shop the look:
mango
Leather-effect trench coat
Add instant cool points to your outfit.
mango
Corset dress with asymmetrical hem
This is exactly Monikh's dress: doesn't it look designer?
mango
Ballet flats with mesh bracelet
…And her exact shoes. I did my homework.
4. Babydoll dress + moccasins and socks
Style Notes: Babydoll dresses are usually pretty cute, especially when they feature ruffles and bows like Olivia's. A pair of stark black loafers in the mix will keep things from looking too twee.
Shop the look:
Free people
Bouton d'Or embroidered mini dress
and other stories
Ribbed cotton sock
& Other Stories socks last a really long time.
and other stories
Penny leather loafers
Penny loafers work hard all year round and can be worn with dresses as proven above, but also jeans, pants and leggings.
5. Red dress + clutch + open heels
Style Notes: I've been told that red is my color, so I'm thrilled that it's very on trend this spring. A midi dress is the best way to wear it for a date night or drinks with the girls, paired with an equally dramatic pair of heels.
Shop the look:
Reformation
Bryson Es Dress
When it comes to dresses, Reformation never puts a foot wrong.
and other stories
Leather pouch
Wear it from day to night.
Christian Louboutin
Nicol Is Back 85 Leopard-print satin mules
Leopard is not dating anyone, despite what some might think. It all depends on how you style it.
6. Cardigan + Slip Dress + Ballet Flats
(Image credit: @claudia_berresford)
Style Notes: When in doubt, grab your nearest slip dress. Seriously, there's a reason we so consistently rate it as one of the most versatile wardrobe staples. This spring, pair it with a casual cardigan and simple ballet flats.
Shop the look:
Lisa Yang
Danni cashmere cardigan
To keep you warm on cool spring evenings.
RIXO
Sandrine – Daisy Jacquard Blue
This would also make a great wedding guest dress.
Everlane
Ballet of the day
Easy to wear with any outfit.
