This post was written in collaboration with Very
As the seasons shift and the days begin to lengthen, there’s a certain magic in the air: brighter mornings, blooming flowers, and the promise of new beginnings… And what better way to celebrate a new house and welcome in the spring than with a wardrobe refresh.
A seasonal update isn’t just about fashion, and lord I wouldn’t know where to start if it was. It doesn’t need to be an entirely new wardrobe; a few key pieces can be a practical and mood-boosting move that helps you feel ready to embrace everything spring has to offer.
Why have a spring wardrobe refresh?
Spring is one of the most unpredictable seasons, bright sunshine one moment, unrepentant showers the next. Go out in your Big Winter Coat and you’ll probably end up carrying it around in a sweat, but gamble on a summer dress and you might be left shivering. Transitioning your wardrobe helps you feel more comfortable, look more put-together, and face any weather the season throws at you.
Beyond the practicalities, spring is symbolic of change and renewal. Swapping out heavy knits for lighter layers can feel like hitting the reset button. Aaah.
Choosing versatile, wear-everywhere pieces
When building a spring-ready wardrobe, the key is versatility. You want pieces that can handle cooler mornings and warmer afternoons, as well as the occasional spring shower. Shopping with Very makes this easy, thanks to their huge selection of seasonal staples. I’ve chosen a few standout items that mix comfort, practicality, and style and are perfect for this in-between season.
I’m currently around a size 12-14 depending on the item and shop (isn’t that always the case…), so my picks were things I thought would suit a midsize figure.
Here’s a peek at what I picked:
Jeans: They just go with everything
Whether you’re heading out for a coffee, walking the dog or doing the supermarket shop, a decent pair of jeans makes a good foundation to any transitional outfit. I think that these Levi 312 Slim Shaping Jeans in a dark wash strike the perfect balance between structured and relaxed; smart but comfortable with stretchy, soft fabric.
I love how these smart-looking jeans can pair with trainers, sandals or boots depending on the weather forecast, and can easily be dressed up with a smart blouse or down with a basic t-shirt or hoodie.
One thing that drives me mad about jeans is the fit.
Levi’s are a complete mystery to me; there’s no ‘I’m a size 12 but I’ve been lazy recently so I’ll go for the 14’; it’s all mysterious European sizing. I went for a 32/32 which I think is roughly equivalent to a UK size 14. In hindsight, they’re a little too big especially with the stretch fabric, and I’d go for a 31 or even a 30 next time, but with a belt they stay up and they’re very comfortable. They make good everyday jeans in sizes 27-32.
You can buy these for £80 from Very.
Classic trainers for walking in the sunshine
Spring is made for walking, and a comfy pair of trainers is a must – especially when you’re a middle aged woman with plantar fasciitis. Boo.
These Adidas Gazelles caught my eye – I wanted some when I was 15 (they’ve been about since the 60s!), and it’s not a surprise that they’re still popular 25 years later; they are well cushioned and comfortable shoes which are just a little bit iconic.
I opted for them in black; a practical colour which will pair well with lots of my wardrobe, whether it’s jeans or dresses. They cost £85 from Very and come in sizes 6-12.
A cotton blouse for that in-between weather
I always think spring is the season for lighter, airier tops that bring some joy to your outfit. This cream Broderie cotton blouse from brand Mint Velvet does exactly that and is ideal for layering under a jacket or wearing solo on slightly warmer days.
It does require a layer underneath as there are holes which are obviously see-through, and you can change up this lower layer depending on the weather.
I got this in a size ‘M’ which is roughly equivalent to a 12. With the long blouson sleeves and oversized look, there’s a lot of fabric – so it’s not one for showing off your figure. It might actually be advisable to size down in this one! The fabric is very pretty with stitched scallop detailing and the low neck and buttoning add nice detail.
It costs £99 and is available in sizes XS (6) – XL (18).
A waterproof coat for those April showers (and May downpours)
Spring showers are an inevitability at this time of year, so lightweight, waterproof jackets and a must! This Barbour coat is made of thin, showeproof material, and I love how it manages to be both practical and flattering, with a tie waist.
It’s the perfect outer layer for unpredictable days and folds easily into a bag so you don’t have to lug it about with you when the sun decides to make an appearance.
(My dog believes that when you put a coat on, she’s going for a walk, hence her photobombing every picture…).
This Barbour jacket – which has big pockets, can go in the washing machine and I have no doubt is going to make a brilliant dog walking staple – costs £149 from Very. It’s available in sizes 8-18.
Layers: The secret to spring dressing
Spring is all about layering. A good transitional outfit should be able to adapt as the temperature changes throughout the day. Start with your base (such as jeans, which can be rolled up, and a vest with a blouse), then build on it with outerwear or accessories that can come off when things heat up. Bonus points if they’re small/light enough to store in a bag!
Very make it simple to find on-trend, season-appropriate options and they often have very good sales, so it’s possible to get yourself a new wardrobe for spring without it costing a fortune too.