These 12 Items Are Making Me Even More Desperate for Spring to Arrive

Whatever the restrictions look like for the months ahead, I'm looking forward to the beginning of spring mainly because of the promise of lighter evenings and the opportunity to pack away my puffer jacket. Things have got so desperate that today as the sun set, I found myself Googling on what date it will be light at 6 p.m. in the UK. As you can tell, my coping mechanism for lockdown 3.0 is to look ahead and think to sunnier times. But this isn't that unusual in my job a fashion editor, where you are often thinking six months ahead. I started writing about the spring/summer 2021 collections last September, so have had some time to consider the items that would make it onto my fantasy shopping list for spring 2021. 

There are 12 items, in particular, that I am looking forward to wearing this spring, and so have been keeping my eye out for these pieces as the spring collections slowly start to trickle into new-in sections. There are classic pieces that will always be spring heroes. You guessed it—I'm talking about trench coats and pastel knitwear. Then there are some more playful items in the mix too, such as colourful sunglasses and novelty jumpers. Keep scrolling to see the 12 items that are making me even more desperate for spring to arrive.

1. Miniskirts

Over the past few years, it has been all about the midi dress, however, there has been an increasing focus on the female form, with a return to bodycon, cutouts and rising hemlines for S/S 21. Designers such as Jacquemus, Miu Miu and Louis Vuitton all had several miniskirts in their collections, with 60s-style micro-skirts and mini slip dresses. 

2. Pastel Knitwear

This is a trend that comes around every year at the same time as we start seeing mini eggs on our weekly shops. Look for cardigans or jumpers in sugary shades that are typically associated with Easter.

3. Patchwork Jeans

We have Victoria Beckham to thank for this denim microtrend thanks to her patchwork flares. And after watching The Serpent, I'm even more tempted by this '70s vibe.

4. Knitted Vests

Knitted vests have been a popular layering piece over the past year, and as the weather warms, prepare for this trend to get even bigger. 

Interesting Necklines

This year there are so many amazing black long-sleeve tops which are elevated with interesting neckline details. Khaite's Maddy bodysuit, which has a wavy off-the-shoulder neckline, is undoubtedly responsible for the prominence of this silhouette on the high street right now. 

Denim Dresses

The denim dress is a wardrobe classic, however, this spring, designers like Gabriella Hearst and Wales Bonner have introduced a more ladylike spin on the denim dress with dark indigo washes and defined waistlines. 

Pink Jackets

Thanks to designers like Christopher John Rogers, Halpern and Molly Goddard bright pink is the hottest colour for spring 2021 and can add some joy back into your wardrobes. I personally will be looking for a jacket in this hue to wear with jeans and a white T-shirt.

Novelty Knitwear

If we can't go on holiday or go outside our postcode, we can wear beautiful vistas instead, right? Novelty knits are certainly having a moment, with jumpers adorned with everything from clouds to sheep.

Fluffy Sandals:

Seeing as many will be working from home for a while longer, comfort is still high on the priority list, and so many sandals this year double as slippers. Very, very fluffy slippers. 

Classic Trench

I could never write a spring shopping list without including a trench coat. Whether you go classic, colourful or printed, this style of coat will always be a wise investment.

Statement Sunglasses

At this stage of lockdown, I'm craving a party dress, something fancy (or at least a fun accessory). This spring, that'll hopefully be a pair of OTT sunglasses that are either colourful or have a retro, graphic shape.

Pretty Blouses

How beautiful is this lavender organza blouse? Sheer fabrics were a key theme for designers such as ACNE and Jil Sander for S/S 21, and I'd love a delicate blouse to upgrade my Zoom calls. 

Next up, see our guide to the key trends for spring/summer 2021.