If you know me - then you’ll know I will always gravitate toward a capsule wardrobe - whatever the season.
So with spring upon us, I thought what better way to kick off my first piece for Hello! Fashion then with my 10 spring essentials. Think neutral dressing, clean lines and a hint of practicality - I’ve concluded my favourite pieces to not only compliment the changing weather, but stand the test of time for years to come.
MORE: How to create a capsule wardrobe for 2023
RELATED: Holiday capsule wardrobe: 6 easy outfits to take away with you
The Trench Coat
Making the top of my list, you can’t go wrong with a lightweight trench coat. Made iconic by the likes of Aquascutum and Burberry, this historic fashion item is truly a timeless piece - whether it be a high street find, or luxury investment.
Vanessa’s outwear styling tip: I always go up a size or two in coats, jackets and trenches so that jumpers can be worn underneath when transitioning to colder months.
The Straight Leg Jean
© Nic FordA style that suits every body shape, and any season. Straight leg jeans are by far and away (in my opinion) the new skinny. Available in numerous washes and fits, I find jeans to be a great tool in building your ultimate capsule wardrobe. Buying the same jean in different varieties helps to keep consistency; whilst steering away from trends or fads.
Vanessa’s denim styling tip: Be mindful of fabric when buying jeans, as most of my denim stretches on the waist after washing.
The Bomber Jacket
The bomber jacket is a fairly new silhouette for me and my wardrobe, but one that is here to stay. This surprisingly versatile piece can add a utilitarian feel to a more classic, or feminine look. Explore fabrics such as leather to really make a statement, or try boucle or tweed for a chic, elevated approach.
Vanessa's bomber jacket styling tip: Size up for a luxury look.
The Straw Bag
Not just for your holidays, a straw bag can be a great way to introduce those natural textures, adding a point of difference to any spring outfit. Luxury or high street, these are my favourite straw bags to keep an eye on, or dust off from last year.
© Anagram iraca palm and leather basket bag - Loewe
The Stripe Tee
Nothing says spring more like a good old fashioned stripe; and believe me there’s nothing old about them. Giving your capsule wardrobe a chic, European feel - I love the use of stripes in my everyday spring outfits. Play with colours if monochrome isn’t your thing, or opt for a conventional colour way to wear time and time again.
The Denim Jacket
Regardless of the double denim trend making its way back around, the denim jacket will always have a place in my collection. It’s an item that’s been available to us for years - but has the ability to sit alongside emerging trends and truly stand the test of time. Explore my favourite high street finds, or browse high end investment options...
Vanessa’s denim jacket styling tip: Look at your proportions and explore with different jackets lengths to see which suits you best. I love a longline silhouette, but always gravitate to a crop.
The Everyday Sunglasses
It's all about the attention to detail, so I couldn’t miss including a pair of classic sunglasses on my spring essentials line up. A great pair of frames are what complete an outfit, no matter the style or season. Depending on the your face shape, I’ve found a few different frames which are perfect for spring/summer 2023.
The Sling Bag
Ideal for on-the-goers like myself, the sling bag is one of my most practical pieces in my wardrobe. A complete hands-free fashion piece, I love how easy these bags can be, whilst remaining chic and considered. Choose colours that can compliment your winter wardrobe too, as hands-free bags can pair perfectly with chunky layers and coats.
The Baseball Cap
Looking back on the last few years, a baseball cap has become one of my most worn accessories. Often overlooked, the baseball cap can be a key styling piece that’s practical but shows personality. I tend to match my hats to other accessories, to keep cohesion throughout my wardrobe.
The White Tee
Last but equally as loved, is the perfect white t-shirt. A core staple in your capsule wardrobe, this perennial fashion piece should be seeing you throughout the year, however I’ve found some lighter fabrics that are perfectly suited to the warmer months.
Vanessa's T-shirt styling tip: I size up in my t-shirts to give a more laidback, relaxed feel. Being mindful of t-shirts that either don’t have enough fabric to tuck into my waistbands, or have too much excess fabric that it causes bunching.
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