After a winter as long and cold as this one, switching over into spring dressing isn't something that's likely to come easily to most people. I look at, talk about, shop for, and style clothes for a living, yet the lead-up into warmer temperatures still stumps me every now and again. Plus, with the weather feeling far more like winter than spring right now in many places, the process is all the more difficult to wrap our heads around. But there's no need to fret. To combat any and all new-season wardrobe woes, I set out to curate the perfect spring 2024 shopping list, from nonnegotiable basics to designer handbags and shoes. And no, of course I'm not about to keep it all to myself.
After a good hour of conceptualizing and two more spent combing through every retailer's spring collections, I did it—I lined up all of this year's spring wardrobe essentials. Even better, I put them all in one place. Below, you'll find crisp white T-shirts and black poplin button-downs, fitted jeans and baggy pairs, lightweight sweaters, trench coats, minimalist sandals, and so much more. Basically, you can print out this list and check off items as you shop. By the end, you'll have nothing to worry about in terms of the winter-to-spring style switchover. You might even let yourself start to get excited about the return of warmer weather. In fact, I guarantee that you will.
A lightweight sweater always comes in handy, but this white cropped option is extra versatile and chic. My suggestion? Keep with this styling and go monochrome.
A timeless belt made extra special with the wraparound effect.
I know some people might say that denim cutoffs are "out," but when they're styled in a sophisticated manner, they can be seriously elevated.
Pointed flats are very happening thanks to brands like The Row, Prada, and Toteme.
A pair of earrings this statement and cool could make any outfit, even a fairly simple one, look impressive.
This tee is perfect enough to force everyone who sees it ask where it's from.
It's a capri-pant spring, didn't you hear?
This canvas Idaho bag from The Row is absolutely going to be spring's most-wanted tote.
Last year, white poplin shirts were in every spring wardrobe, but this year, I'm betting on black.
Cord belts are the perfect add-on for blazers, trenches, or jackets.
I have these in faded black, and I swear they're some of the best jeans I've ever owned (and I have over 50 pairs at the moment).
I guarantee that these will get worn at least once a week.
I trust Kallmeyer with my entire wardrobe.
Prada's F/W 23 collection made white skirts one of the most sought-after wardrobe items of all, and the trend isn't going away anytime soon.
Because this dress can be worn in so many ways, it's the perfect choice for spring days when the weather can change in an instant.
Everyone has a khaki-colored trench. This gray alt is far more luxe and modern.
Trust me, people will think this bag cost you 10 times what it actually did.
Every really impressive outfit this spring will include a touch of red.
The second it gets warm, I whip out my linen pants.
I've been noticing so many interesting ways to wear white tights on IG lately. Adding a pair is the cheapest way to look in the know this spring.
Our whole office is abuzz about these Burberry pumps.
Say yes to a pair of oversize, tortoiseshell sunglasses for spring. They're very Jackie O. meets Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.
No explanation necessary—Levi's are always a good choice, no matter the season or year.
Elegance is brought to life in this Staud blazer.
When you simply cannot bear to wear heels for another day, slip on these strappy flat sandals.
Say yes to large statement cuffs.
*Buys five of each color.*
No, pencil skirts aren't stuffy anymore. They're actually extremely versatile.
From what I've heard, these irresistibly cool Tory Burch flip-flops are some of the most comfortable shoes on the market right now.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.