Ah, spring, it's good to see you again. The evenings are brighter, the temperatures are rising, and there's a joie de vivre in the air that comes from starting a fresh, new season. And one thing that we love about the beginning of spring is a whole new way to dress. I love getting dressed up. Weddings, events, post-work drinks—you name it, and after a long, dark winter of cosy layers and weatherproof clothing, there's nothing quite like stepping out in your first pair of sandals of the season (I wore mine last week.)
That being said, there needs to be an ease to getting dressed in the morning, and not every day has the luxury of an hours getting ready time, so if there's one formula that will never let you down, it's a good dress + shoes + a bag. It really is that simple. And as I scoured through the new-in sections of some of my favourite high-street brands, three stood out in particular for their attention-grabbing selection of these instant-outfit components: Mango, COS and Whistles.
If you're looking for occasionwear, Mango should be on your list. From floor-skimming maxis to statement heels, it's got you covered for parties, weddings and everything in-between. Then of course, there's COS the kings of casual dressing, and if you're looking for the kind of stretch jersey that's dressy enough to wear for work and the weekend, you're gonna want to look up their midi-dresses, perfectly paired with leather sandals. And last but no means least, Whistles are bringing the colour this season, so those who are drawn to bold brights will love their punchy palette and pretty detailing the perfect dresses for a sunny spring.
So, if you're tired of traipsing through the high street looking for what to wear this spring, I've put together an edit of the very best new pieces that will make looking put-together a breeze. Just pick a piece from each category and mix and match to assemble your outfit. You're welcome.
1. BEST NEW DRESSES
SHOP MANGO DRESSES:
Linen comes into it's own in the sunnier seasons.
A full length maxi that brings the drama.
Weddings filling your social calendar? This is guest dress of dreams.
SHOP COS DRESSES:
An easy-staple you'll wear on repeat.
Last year's gathered midi was such a success, that we predict that this spring's asymmetric hem version will be too.
You won't find a better statement print than this.
Just as good in autumn with knee-high boots as it is in spring with sandals.
SHOP WHISTLES:
Perfect for summer in the city (or on the beach).
We. Are. Obsessed.
How to do prints if you're a print-sceptic.
2. BEST NEW SHOES
SHOP MANGO:
You'll wear with everything from jeans to midi-dresses.
I wouldn't blame you if you thought this was designer.
The padded sole makes this a comfortable wear.
Rosettes are a huge trend right now.
SHOP COS:
I live for a midi heel that I can comfortably wear all day.
Hear me out, but mules may be the most versatile heel, ever?
The dream desk-to-dinner shoe.
SHOP WHISTLES:
Chunky soles are still in style.
Strappy sandals made elegant.
If you were lucky enough to get your hands on these in autumn when they first landed, you're no doubt still wearing them now..
3. BEST NEW BAGS
SHOP MANGO:
Occasion bags? Yep, they've got those too.
The braided detail elevates this from a simple black bag to a great one.
One word: wow.
SHOP COS:
A surprisingly roomy shoulder bag for all of your essentials.
Summer evenings sorted.
I can't decide between the white or black colourway.
Woven bags are about to be big news.
SHOP WHISTLES:
I wasn't kidding about the woven bag trend.
There's something so chic about rustic raffia.
90s bags, eat your heart out.
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