I’m a Fashion Expert—Here Are 35 Elevated Pieces Worth Buying This Spring

I've worked in the fashion industry as a stylist and editor for close to a decade, so I’d say by now I’m pretty confident in spotting a great wardrobe buy when I see one. Over the years, I’ve seen trends and cult items come and go, experimenting with some along the way. No doubt they were fun while they lasted, but these days, I’m much more about elevated pieces that I know will stand the test of time, whether that means pinpointing the most expensive-looking high-street finds or saving up for luxury pieces I truly love. Each season, I curate my ultimate wish list of classic items worth investing in and share it with you here. So, as we head into spring, keep scrolling to see my classic picks for the months (and years) ahead. 

I have to say I think spring is my favourite season of all. The crisp blue sky days, and the hopefulness that comes with every new sighting of daffodils. The air is suddenly warmer and we can start to shed those dark and heavy layers in favour of lighter, looser styles. I also find that classic items really shine in spring—whether it's a perfect breton knit, or timeless trench coat. You can really get creative with layering if you've got a capsule of tonal neutrals in different textures like linen and silks—with some some stripes thrown in there and the odd floral or pastel piece too. Even just adding one or two of these items can liven up your go-to outfits that may be feeling a little tired. 

This season, in particular, I'm looking for really useful and versatile items I can wear for lots of different outings. Dress weather is back, and I'm being drawn mostly to transitional styles that will take me though summer too—lighter knit styles (like this Raey number) and striped shirt dresses (COS has the perfect one) are top of my wish list.

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(Image credit: John Lewis; River Island; House of Dagmar; Net-A-Porter)

I'm also on the hunt for some key accessories this season as I find these can be a great way to elevate a simple spring outfit. I tend to live in some iteration of jeans and a T-shirt, probably with a blazer thrown over—so the addition of some modern flats, or classic leather sandals and a chic belt or pair of gold hoops can make all the difference. I find switching out my dark leather bags for something woven or raffia is another way to instantly bring an outfit into spring (it's especially useful now, while the weather is still playing catch up) so there's a couple of my favourite styles in the edit below, too.

Creating this list, I realised that actually most spring buys are super classic so I'm convinced I'll rewear them year after year, and in autumn as well. Which is why it’s often in spring that I end up investing the most in key wardrobe pieces—because I have confidence they're worth the money. Whether that means a great quality pair of more sustainable jeans, like Reformation's Liza style, or House of Dagmar's effortless tailored pants.

Keep scrolling to see everything that has my full attention this spring—and let me tell you we're being spoiled by both the high street and designers this year. Of course, I won’t be buying all of this myself, but rest assured even just one of these items will add timeless value to your existing wardrobe. Happy shopping!

Shop My Elevated Spring Edit:

Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week