The arrival of spring is exciting for many reasons, sartorial and otherwise, but welcoming dress-friendly weather is high on our list. Not just the ability to wear a dress, but the ability to do so sans tights. Sure, sundress season is still a couple of months away, but in the meantime, we’re celebrating slightly warmer temperatures by ditching the hosiery and making dresses the base of our April outfits.
While one of the benefits of dress-wearing is that the bulk of your outfit is complete with a single item, it’s still worth giving your look some thought. Tossing in a few trending accessories or an interesting layering piece—and changing up these finishing touches each time—will keep your dress from feeling like a one-hit-wonder.
Seeking some spring dress outfit ideas to recreate for the new season, I took to Instagram and was immediately met with post after post showcasing elevated dress styling. Hitting some of SS24’s biggest trends while feeling wearable and comfortable, the following six looks made it into my ‘inspiration’ folder without a second thought.
1. Knitted Vest + White Dress + Clogs
Style Notes: White cotton dresses are set to dominate the warmer months, but until the sun comes out consistently, I’ll be styling mine with a knit and closed-toe shoes.
Shop the Look:
Jigsaw
Cashmere Crew Neck Tank | Black
You’ll constantly find fresh ways to wear this knit.
Ganni
Smocked Cotton Poplin Maxi Dress
Birkenstock
Boston Soft Footbed Suede Leather
It doesn’t get comfier than these Insta-famous Birkenstocks.
2. Ribbed Dress + Raffia Bag + Pastel Trainers
Style Notes: It wouldn’t be spring without a dose of colour, and this ribbed dress in soft lilac feels subtle enough for even minimalists to get on board with—but bright enough to lift your spirits.
Shop the Look:
Dorothee Schumacher
Ribbed-Knit Wool-Blend Midi Dress
What a beautiful springtime hue.
COS
Wristlet Pouch – Raffia
The perfect holiday pouch.
New Balance
2002r Trainers in Pale Pink
These would also look great with an all-white outfit.
3. Trench Coat + Maxi Dress + Mesh Flats
Style Notes: All that talk of colour, and here we are with a dark and moody look. But with Monikh’s masterful styling (plus some very trendy elements), I couldn’t help but include it.
Shop the Look:
Mango
Leather-Effect Trench Coat
Add instant cool points to your outfit.
Mango
Corset Dress With Asymmetrical Hem
This is Monikh’s exact dress—doesn’t it look designer?
Mango
Ballerinas With Mesh Bracelet
… And her exact shoes. I did my homework.
4. Babydoll Dress + Loafers and Socks
Style Notes: Babydoll dresses are typically quite cutesy, especially when they’re adorned with frills and bows like Olivia’s. A pair of stark black loafers in the mix will keep things from feeling too twee.
Shop the Look:
Free People
Buttercup Embroidered Mini Dress
& Other Stories
Cotton Rib Sock
& Other Stories socks are really long-lasting.
& Other Stories
Leather Penny Loafers
Penny loafers work hard year-round and can be worn with dresses as proven above, but also jeans, trousers and leggings.
5. Red Dress + Clutch + Open-Toe Heels
Style Notes: I’ve been told red is my colour, so I am delighted it’s trending in a big way this spring. A midi-length dress is the best way to wear it for a date night or girls’ drinks, paired with an equally show-stopping pair of heels.
Shop the Look:
Reformation
Bryson Dress Es
When it comes to dresses, Reformation never gets it wrong.
& Other Stories
Leather Clutch Bag
Carry this from day-to-night.
Christian Louboutin
Nicol Is Back 85 Leopard-Print Satin Mules
Leopard doesn’t date, despite what some people might think. It’s all about how you style it.
6. Cardigan + Slip Dress + Ballet Flats
(Image credit: @claudia_berresford)
Style Notes: When in doubt, grab your closest slip dress. Seriously, there’s a reason we so regularly label it one of the most versatile wardrobe staples. This spring, team it with a relaxed cardigan and simple ballet flats.
Shop the Look:
Lisa Yang
Danni Cashmere Cardigan
To keep you warm on chilly spring evenings.
RIXO
Sandrine – Daisy Jacquard Blue
This would double up as a stunning wedding guest dress.
Everlane
The Day Ballet Flat
Easy to slip on with every outfit.