Even though the seasons change at the same time each year, spring always seems to sneak up in a manner that feels like your wardrobe is never properly prepared for its arrival. Maybe it has something to do about how different cold- and warm-weather dressing can be. Maybe it's because unlike winter, the temperatures come April and May tend to be less reliable (you know, one day it's 70 degrees, the next it's 30).With that in mind, we've figured out a way to get a head start on your spring outfit planning — before the season sneaks up on you. How? By starting with the easiest, throw-and-go pieces you know you'll wear over and over again.
After all, one of the great things about warmer weather is not having to layer up before you leave the house; just grab any of the 20 staples ahead and you're ready to walk out the door.
The Colorful Mule
A mule is one of those shoe silhouettes that looks fancy, but is actually totally walkable and versatile. In a bold shade, like poppy red, this shoe is surprisingly neutral without being too summery. Don't be afraid to pair them with everything, from jeans to printed dresses.
Front Row Shop Red Suede Mules, $92, available at Front Row Shop.
The Silky Camisole
Back in middle and high school, you never would have gotten through spring without a colorful, lacy cami. The style is all grown-up now, thanks to its satin texture, and works perfectly for a going-out or date-night look come spring.
Reformation Camille Top, $98, available at Reformation.
The Layer-able Dress
A tie-around-the-waist wrap dress looks as good on its own as it does layered over a turtleneck or graphic tee. Basically, it's the easiest, most seasonless piece, ever.
Gorman Shattered Mineral Dress, $329, available at Gorman Shop.
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The Flare Jeans
Last year's '70s trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down. Embrace it with these breathable, no-fuss flares that fit like a skinny jean in the thigh, but are relaxed at the base for an easy and flattering combo.
Gap 1969 Light Authentic Flare Jean, $59.99, available at Gap.
The Onesie You Can Wear In Public
Speaking of so-simple outfits, this one-piece is a no-brainer for errand running and weekend brunches. We'll take any item that has us feeling like we're wearing pajamas.
ADAY Sunday Morning Jumpsuit, $105, available at ADAY.
The Non-Coachella Short-Shorts
Warmer weather doesn't necessarily mean you have to go full-on denim diaper shorts. Swap out your ripped-up, cheek-baring pair for a more sophisticated, transitional look that doesn't give off that whole "I'm-on-my-way-to-a-music-festival" feeling.
Babaton Tommie Short, $95, available at Artizia.
The Next-Gen Studs
If you find yourself wearing the same pair of gold earrings every day, spice up your rotation by throwing a quirkier set (that still works for any occasion) into the mix.
Eyland Jewelry Hera Earrings, $42, available at Eyland Jewelry.
The Girly-In-A-Good-Way Blouse
No piece can make an outfit feel instantly more polished like a fresh white blouse. This high-necked, ruffle-sleeved version only looks expensive (and makes for a mean layering piece underneath dresses and light jackets, too).
Pixie Market Swiss Dot Chiffon Bell Sleeve Shirt, $122, available at Pixie Market.
The In-Your-Face Maxi-Dress
A maxi-dress is one of the easiest ways to look chic in 10 seconds flat. Slip it on, grab some slides, and you're on your way to meetings or lunch in no time.
Staud Clothing Diego Dress, $255 $204, available at Staud Clothing.
The No-Fail White Tee
Spring's arrival is the perfect excuse to replace your worn-out white tee in favor of one that's crisp and fresh. This one has longer sleeves and an oversized cut that will make you feel like you woke up like this.
WILT Sweat T, $107, available at WILT.
The Transitional Jacket
A robe coat in a light, movable fabric is ideal for spring days that still have a bit of a breeze. Try a new hue, like a blush pink, instead of your same old black.
Bill Blass Ryan Robe Coat, $328, available at Bill Blass.
The A-line Skirt
Miniskirts may be coming back, but there's still something so put-together about a leather midi-skirt, not to mention how it can be dressed up with a ruffled blouse or down with a concert tee.
Whistles Leather A-line Midi Skirt, $560, available at Whistles.
The Neutral Crossbody
If you've been carrying a black bag for the past few months, lighten things up with a neutral crossbody that works just as well.
Forever 21 Faux Leather Shoulder Bag, $27.90, available at Forever 21.
The Featherlight Blazer
Pack up the heavy wool blazers. It's time for one that's light and breathable. Throw this piece over basics and minimalist separates for the finishing touch to your spring look.
Tibi Drape Twill Relaxed Blazer, $450, available at Tibi.
The Springy Sweater
Sweaters aren't totally irrelevant when warmer weather hits, but you'll want one that's a little happier than all the turtlenecks you've been sporting through the cold. This mixed-pattern piece has totally won our hearts — and it's affordable, too.
H&M Jacquard-knit Sweater, $49.99, available at H&M.
The Pleated Trouser
There's nothing cooler than pairing a floor-grazing pair of slouchy trousers with a white sneaker and a tee. Try this peachy pair and you may never go back to your skinny jeans again.
Just Female Roz Pants, $105, available at Need Supply.
The Carryall Backpack
We know that a cute little crossbody isn't an everyday reality, so have a sleek backpack on deck that can carry all the essentials, like a change of shoes or your latest read.
Everlane The Modern Zip Backpack — Mini, $58, available at Everlane.
The Ultra-frayed Denim
No spring wardrobe is complete without a cropped pair of jeans that have that sought-after super-frayed hem — and these have a detail up top, too, which makes them cool for crop tops.
StyleMafia Friki Jeans, $70, available at StyleMafia.
The Thin Turtleneck
Please don't make us part with our turtlenecks come spring. This light and comfy striped one should do the trick under pinafores and spaghetti-strap tanks.
CAMP Collection Winona Turtleneck, $77, available at CAMP Collection.
The Polished Legging Jegging
Legging lovers, this one's for you. AYR's polished take on the jegging will be your new best friend for traveling. With a cool trainer and fashionable hoodie, you'll be airport style #goals at its finest.
AYR The Flex Tech, $225, available at AYR.
The Dress/Tunic Hybrid
Because any piece that is actually two pieces in one is something our closets need, stat.
Finery London Hallton Cocoon Dress, $95, available at Finery London.
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