Shopping·13 min read

How to Build an In-Between-Seasons Wardrobe That’s *Just* Right

spring-clothing-accessories
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Anthropologie, Comme Si
March 21, 2024

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

It’s officially “Not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket” season (we know you get that reference). And while we’re quite literally jumping at the chance to get outside for daily walks and al fresco brunch, we also have trouble deciding what to wear when it’s not quite warm enough to bare it all. So we’re sharing everything we’re buying for this transitional weather, from jeans you’ll keep wearing through the summer to versatile light layers.

cropped-cardigan
Ann Taylor

A cropped cardigan you can style in so many ways…

Between the baby blue color and the soft cashmere fabric, this cardigan is what dreams are made of. Wear it as a top all buttoned up, unbutton it at the bottom to show off a classic belt, or grab the matching shell and wear it with that. You’ll want to wear this one every season. ($159.60, Ann Taylor)

Buy it
boxers
Comme Si

A pair of boxers you can wear outside the house…

We’re buying into the boxers-as-real-shorts trend, and you should, too. These are substantial, so you won’t feel exposed or like you’re not supposed to be wearing them to run errands or grab a coffee. They’re made of soft Italian cotton poplin and come in the prettiest colors. Grab the set of three once you fall in love with them. ($70, Comme Si)

Buy it
sandal
Nordstrom

A sandal to show off your fresh pedicure…

It’s time for the first pedicure of the season, if only so you can wear your new sandals. These are *chef’s kiss* from the nude color that’ll elongate your legs to the mesh upper with gems. While it’s still chilly, wear them with jeans or cargo pants, then pair them with dresses once summer hits. ($295, Nordstrom)

Buy it
spring-jeans
Levi's

Spring jeans we bought after seeing them on screen…

Yes, these are the jeans Sydney Sweeney wore in “Anyone But You” (stream it here if you haven’t seen it already). The fit is just right; they hug our curves in the right places but never feel too constricting. The straight leg is roomy without being overly baggy and looks good with any footwear. Sweeney’s outfit included a black heeled bootie, which we’ll be copying immediately. ($98, Levi’s)

Buy it
maxi-dress
Anthropologie

Anthropologie’s bestselling maxi dress…

From the flattering V-neck to the cinched waist, we can see why this cotton dress has so many fans. It’s comfortable, pairs well with almost any shoe, and goes from the office to an after-work happy hour with ease. The new lemon print is the addition your spring dress collection needs. ($168, Anthropologie)

Buy it
trousers
Target

A pair of trousers that are a workwear necessity…

When it’s early spring and we’re not sure what to wear to work, the answer is always: trousers. They look polished and professional but are also comfortable and pair with pretty much any top. The high-rise, straight-leg style is flattering, and we even wear them on the weekend to brunch with a cropped sweater. Grab the classic black or the pink. Or why not both? ($32, Target)

Buy it
trucker-jacket
Abercrombie & Fitch

An Abercrombie & Fitch trucker jacket we just added to cart…

When we imagine the perfect denim jacket, this is what comes to mind. The medium wash is versatile enough to wear year-round, and since it’s a bit oversized, you can comfortably wear it over chunky sweaters without added bulk. Plus, it comes with a soft, worn-in feel that looks like you found it in a vintage shop. ($100, Abercrombie & Fitch)

Buy it
tanks
Abercrombie & Fitch

A two-pack of tanks you’ll wear with everything…

Another can’t-miss spring outfit? A classic tank with jeans. The fit of these is ’90s-inspired — think Rachel Green in “Friends” — the fabric is ribbed, and the scoop neck means you might not have to wear a bra (if you really want to go ’90s). The black and white will keep all your bases covered. ($45, Abercrombie & Fitch)

Buy it
glove-boots
Everlane

A pair of glove boots for a sleek and sophisticated look…

Under trousers, over tights, with jeans — these are super versatile and a solid addition to your shoe closet. With just the right amount of stretch to maximize comfort, these ribbed, sock-like boots are great for anyone who has to be on their feet during the day, but still wants to feel dressed up thanks to the heel. They come in black, toffee, and bone that would look great with an all-white ensemble. ($150, Everlane)

Buy it
chunky-cardigan
Amazon

A classic chunky cardigan…

Pair this chunky, cable-knit cardigan with a dress on warmer days or a T-shirt and jeans on cooler ones. It comes in more than 20 colors, so you won’t have trouble finding the right one for you. ($38.98, Amazon)

Buy it
jumpsuit
Free People

A jumpsuit that’s a one-and-done outfit…

It’s giving cute auto mechanic. You can layer a long sleeve underneath or a jacket on top if the temperatures dip. The fit is very roomy, so you’ll have breathing space when it gets a little warmer out. For a surprising way to style it, throw on a pair of trendy ballet flats. ($128, Free People)

Buy it
trench-coat
J.Crew

A chic water-repellent trench coat for rainy days…

This is the kind of coat your mom probably wants you to buy (with the investment piece price to match)...and she’s right. J.Crew revived their classic trench and added a hood for sudden rain showers. It comes in four classic colors, as well as both straight and petite sizing, so you can find your just-right fit and wear it forever. ($279.50, J.Crew)

Buy it
straight-leg-pant
Everlane

A straight-leg pant in a perfect spring color…

White pants are synonymous with spring and summer, and these are no exception. Made from breathable cotton twill, these have a high rise and feel like they’re already broken in. They also come in six other colors if white isn’t your thing. ($98, Everlane)

Buy it
button-up
Old Navy

A button-up that’ll add polish to any outfit…

The “Risky Business” look will always be in. This cotton version has a cool, breathable oversized fit. Wear it over bike shorts if you’re going for something more casual, or under a blazer if you’re heading to the office. Customers say it’s very generous, so consider sizing down. ($13.47+, Old Navy)

Buy it
ankle-socks
Aritzia

A three-pack of ankle socks that are incredibly versatile…

We don’t say this lightly, but these are the best socks we’ve ever worn. They look just as good peeking out of our New Balances with leggings as they do worn with loafers and a skirt. They’re also soft and breathable; what more could you want? ($20, Aritzia)

Buy it
exercise-dress
Alo Yoga

An exercise dress that easily goes from the gym to brunch…

It’s breathable, sweat-wicking, and will look good paired with a jacket or sweater tied around your shoulders. The compression shorts underneath will keep you covered whether you’re playing pickleball or running errands. ($118, Alo Yoga)

Buy it
baseball-cap
Anthropologie

A baseball cap to shield your face from the sun…

PSA: You should still be wearing SPF even if it’s not hot just yet. But this cap will add an extra layer of protection, while also serving as a fashion statement. There’s nothing more classic than a navy Yankees cap, but we love that this one comes in fun colors like red and pink. Wear it with jeans or athleisure, the possibilities are endless. ($42, Anthropologie)

Buy it
90s-jeans
Nordstrom

A pair of slouchy ’90s jeans we love…

These are the just-right, not-too-skinny, not-too-wide-leg jeans you’ve been looking for. We have these and can confidently say they’re one of our favorite pairs ever. Pro tip: These don’t have much stretch, so if you want that effortlessly cool baggier fit, we suggest sizing up. ($238, Nordstrom)

Buy it
claw-clips
Amazon

A multipack of colorful claw clips…

Claw clips > hair ties. We said what we said. This handy (and cheap) multipack of hair clips comes with two styles and several matte colors, ranging from neutrals to candy brights, so you can mix and match to suit your mood. We rec keeping one of these in every bag. ($6.98+/4-pack, Amazon)

Buy it
denim-jacket
Amazon

A denim jacket that will become a wardrobe staple…

When the weather gets warmer and your winter jacket feels far too heavy, it’s time for a jean jacket. This one will never go out of style, and it comes in a ton of washes. It’s a versatile piece you can layer over a lighter sweater or hoodie, or wear as-is with your summer dresses. ($32.30+, Amazon)

Buy it
long-sleeve-cardigan
Amazon

A cozy, long-sleeve cardigan to layer up in…

Choose from a wide range of colors (we love the Raspberry option) and sizes to find your perfect fit. Wear it around the house. Wear it to take the dog out. Just keep it by the door, you’ll be wearing it so much. It also has pockets that’ll store your iPhone safely. ($39.99, Amazon)

Buy it
rain-bootie
Zappos

A rain bootie with sherpa lining…

You’ll wonder how you ever made it through spring showers before you had Ugg rain boots. Plus, the added lining will keep your toes warm on still-chilly days. They come in nine colors. Rain? It’s handled. ($35.93+, Zappos)

Buy it

Live Smarter

Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.

fbtwitteremail