Don't know about you, but spring often catches us off guard from a sartorial standpoint. Just when we've found our layering groove and got the hang of styling big puffy jackets, the mercury begins to rise and all of a sudden it's time to start from scratch again. If you feel like you can't remember how to clad yourself for the transitional weather, you're not alone. But we have some good news: spring style doesn't have to be difficult.
Taking a minimalist, streamlined approach to spring style is a bit of a cheat code. Spend less time focusing on curating elaborate outfits and strip your wardrobe back to a few quality pieces you can wear in lots of different ways. This way you you can make looking put together far more efficient, while ridding your wardrobe of unnecessary clutter at the same time.
The first step is to arm yourself with some well-built, versatile staple pieces you can mix and match throughout the season and beyond. From cashmere knitwear to a goes-with-anything coat – here are our spring style essentials from ISTO.
The trench coat
A parka is overkill for spring, but that doesn't mean you should step away from big coats entirely. A trench coat, like this one cut from water-repellant fabric, is lighter and more versatile while still offering protection from wind and rain. It's cut for a trim fit, but its still roomy enough to throw over a jumper or hoodie when the heavens open. And, thanks to the classic shape and style, it'll work seamlessly with everything from tailored pants to joggers.
The work jacket
A classic overshirt is a must when it comes to dealing with temperamental spring weather. You can wear it open over a T-shirt on warmer days, or layer it over knitwear with a coat on top when there's a bite in the air. It's a true four-season garment, and it works particularly well in a bold block colour to give your outfits a focal point. We're particularly fond of a rich royal blue, which nods to the garments roots in the French blue-collar workforce.
The cashmere sweater
It's nice to be able to add a little touch of luxury to every outfit, and a cashmere sweater enables you to do exactly that. Whatever you pair it with, the soft, almost silken handfeel of the fabric will elevate things, making your outfit feel considered rather than thrown together. This one's fabric is sourced from world-famous Italian mill Cariaggi and cut for a comfortable yet flattering fit.
The quilted vest
Transitional dressing is still a game of layers, you just have to be a bit more restrained about it. This quilted vest can used as a mid layer with some knitwear and a big coat on the coldest of days, or styled as a standalone outer with a hoodie or sweat when the temperature is a little warmer. It's also smart enough to wear with tailoring, making it one of the most versatile pieces in your spring rotation.
The mid-wash jeans
There aren't any hard-and-fast rules about what shade of denim you should wear for each season, but we find that stonewash feels at home when the sun's shining, and dark indigo works best when the days are at their shortest. Using those as the two extremes of the spectrum, it makes sense to go for a mid wash during the transitional months. Not too light, not too dark, and versatile enough to wear with anything and everything. This pair from ITSO are cut from 13oz Italian denim and feature a classic fit with a slight taper below the knee.
Next up: How to build a minimalist capsule wardrobe.
