Wednesday, March 20, 2024

19 Spring Outfit Ideas That Will Have Your Cheering For Warmer Weather

Ever stand in front of your jam-packed closet, staring at more than enough clothing options, and think: I have nothing to wear? Same. But perhaps the issue isn’t that you’re out of viable outfit choices. You just need a fresh dose of inspiration — say: spring outfits — to help you see your wardrobe in a new way. That’s where Outfit Dump comes in. We supply you with enough ideas to fuel your style until the next drop comes along. 

Transitioning from one season to another can be a sartorial challenge. After having spent months dressing for certain conditions — see: cold weather, snow, etc. — it’s easy to fall into a fashion rut and grow to feel like you have nothing to wear as a result of styling the same section of your closet for an extended period of time. But with a new season also comes new opportunities to rediscover old favorites, change up your style, and experiment with new trends.

That’s exactly what we’ll be doing this spring, as the weather changes and we no longer have to make dressing functionally for biting temperatures our main priority. Whether it’s barrel-leg jeans, oversized bows, mesh ballet flats, or any other of the season’s buzziest trends, now is the time to start having fun with spring fashion. Keep scrolling to discover 19 spring outfit ideas that will have you ready for warmer weather. 

Spring Outfit Idea: Barrel-Leg Jeans 


This spring, it’s time to embrace one of 2024’s biggest denim trends: barrel-leg jeans. The wider the leg, the better, in our humble opinion, but let your personal taste guide you and have fun with the styling — these jeans can be dressed up or down.

Spring Outfit Idea: Patchwork Denim 


Patchwork denim styles are also taking over the shopping aisles this season, as seen in this London Fashion Week street style outfit. We love the cropped, baggy jacket pictured here, but you can find the patchwork look in an array of pieces, styles, and silhouettes.

Spring Outfit Idea: Big Bows 


Last year’s ultra-femme aesthetic is getting supersized with bows that take up the entire surface area, and we’re obsessed.

Spring Outfit Idea: Big Collars 


And if you’re still loving the “girly look,” try going for pieces that boast statement collars, like the one on this tiered Ganni dress.

Spring Outfit Idea: Lace Maxi Skirt 


Because nothing says looking ahead to brighter, warmer days than a fun, breezy maxi skirt that will still provide extra protection from cooler spring weather.

Spring Outfit Idea: Tropical Teal 


This Mediterranean-inspired teal hue was a favorite on the runways — and with good reason. Look at this vibrant skirt set and tell us you aren’t dreaming of heading to the beach right now.

Spring Outfit Idea: Sculptural Mini Dresses 


It’s hard to go wrong with a classic mini dress, but you can make your look much more interesting and dynamic by opting for one with a unique shape, whether that be with a striking hemline, interesting neckline, 3-D features, or anything in between.

Spring Outfit Idea: Mesh Shoes 


The only footwear trend set to be more popular and must-try for spring than ballet flats? Mesh ballet flats that really understand the appeal of going sheer.

Spring Outfit Idea: Touches of Leopard Print 


Consider leopard print a neutral for 2024. While that may seem daunting if you shy away from bold prints, you can still dabble in the trend by adding it to your outfit in small touches, like in a pair of stylish sneakers or with an also-trendy double waistband.

Spring Outfit Idea: Oversized Bag 


Can’t figure out what to wear this spring? Build your outfit entirely around your go-to oversized bag that can fit anything and everything you could possibly need.

Spring Outfit Idea: Quilted Jacket 


An artful, quilted jacket, like this one from Sézane, is the perfect transitional layer to add to your spring wardrobe.

Spring Outfit Idea: Cropped Matching Set 


Or if you believe in dressing for the spring temperatures you want to be experiencing, a cropped matching set — in a who-cares-about-the-season shade of white — is the way to go.

Spring Outfit Idea: All Red 


Barbiecore pink has given way to the color red, so why not style the bold hue from head to toe?

Spring Outfit Idea: No-Pants Look 


The no-pants look is here to stay in 2024 (you can thank the SS24 runways for that), so we say it’s time to veer outside of your comfort zone and give it a try for yourself. We love the ruffled hotpants (paired with lacy tights) shown here, but there’s room to tone down the trend if your aesthetic typically leans more neutral.

Spring Outfit Idea: Colored Tights 


Colored tights are a natural partner to the no-pants look — though you can definitely wear a pair a number of other ways, too. The trick here is to stay playful and to style them as an essential part of your outfit, not as an afterthought.

Spring Outfit Idea: Floral Prints 


Forget what Miranda Priestly said: Florals for spring are always a good idea.

Spring Outfit Idea: Feathers 


It may only be spring, but we can peek into the future thanks to this past fall/winter fashion month. One of the top runway trends seen at fashion shows in New York and Paris? Plush, fuzzy, and textured clothing — just like this fabulous feathered skirt.

Spring Outfit Idea: Pattern Mixing

 
Have fun with your seasonal layers by mixing and matching the patterns on every element of your outfit. We also love the pointed-toe heels that complete the look pictured here.

Spring Outfit Idea: Chunky Cardigan 


Ready to store away your jackets and coats until the next cold-weather fashion season? We don’t blame you. Opt for a cute, chunky cardigan as your use-as-needed warming layer instead — it will bring way more spring cheer.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

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I’m in My Sportscore Era. Here’s How I Achieve the Look & Lifestyle

Born in Venezuela in 1993, I immigrated to the United States at 3 years old. Growing up in the heart of New York City, my surroundings, culture, and family inspired my journey to find a unique sense of self-expression. In a melting pot of diversity, it was not just about standing out but also embracing the melange of cultures that can only exist in a place like New York. All of this led to my Mets jersey taking center stage in my wardrobe and “blokecore” or “sportcore” — a style characterized by sports jerseys and attire — becoming my norm.

Before I found my signature style, my wardrobe consisted of hand-me-downs, fast-fashion, and trendy clothing. I slowly realized my everyday style was a collection of outfits that trended overnight and phased out quickly; it was not sustainable or realistic. I was crowding my closet with piles of clothing that did not make me feel good. 

When I began to focus on what made me feel good, I realized that comfortability and accessibility were important to my closet. Curating a wardrobe that reflected my values and morals shaped my signature style. Growing up in New York City, where different cultures seamlessly intermingle, I found myself between two cultures: I felt pulled to embrace my Venezuelan roots and adopt the vibrant spirit of New York. I soon realized I didn’t have to pick one over the other. Both are part of my identity and my closet.

In middle school, my love for sports jerseys and sneakers started to materialize. While I couldn’t afford every sneaker release and jersey the mall had to offer, I got creative with what was at my disposal — I thrifted a lot of my clothing. I took my first step toward this fusion of cultures by adopting the Mets jersey. The Mets, an iconic baseball team in the city, are not only a source of local pride but also a symbol of unity among New Yorkers. People across different ethnic backgrounds, NYC neighborhoods, and economic levels don the jersey whether there’s a game or not. 

For me, wearing a Mets jersey was more than just a fashion statement; it was a representation of my deep connection to this vibrant city. The jerseys became a part of my identity, allowing me to communicate my love for the Mets and the Big Apple itself. Every time I adorned that blue and orange jersey, I felt like I was carrying a piece of New York with me wherever I went.

And while the jersey colors didn’t match the ones on the Venezuelan flag, it made me feel close to my culture, too. Venezuela and baseball go hand in hand — some of the greatest players of our time are Venezuelan and that makes me proud. From Johan Santana, to Eduardo Escobar, to Wilmer Flores, to name a few, Venezuelans have made their mark on baseball in the United States. Being able to relate to and recognize my people within the U.S.’s so-called greatest pastime brings a smile to my face and heart.

What made this journey truly special was the support of my family. They not only encouraged me to wear Mets jerseys but also any clothes that allowed me to express myself, regardless of cultural or gender norms. This was incredibly important for me, as it allowed me to explore my identity freely. In a society that often dictates what it means to be “normal,” having parents who understood and encouraged my choices was a true blessing.

Today, when I see my Mets jerseys hanging in my closet, I don’t just see pieces of clothing; I see a chronicle of my personal growth, a bridge between two worlds, and a reminder that authenticity and self-expression are the most important aspects of fashion. These jerseys will forever be a part of my identity, telling a story that speaks to my identity as a Venezuelan in New York. 

Since I have found being in my sportscore era so freeing, here are a few ways you can achieve the look as well — no matter what team you support. 

Wear your sports attire with dressier items. 

I love to dress up any jersey or sports hat. I am a firm believer in the versatility of clothes, and being able to wear your sports memorabilia with dressier items in your closet is a no-brainer. They are two clothing items that don’t have the same vibe, and yet, they make for an interesting look. 

Accessories will make or break an outfit. 

I am always between adding too many accessories to an outfit or not incorporating enough. You will always know when an addition to your ensemble does not feel right, so remove it when the thought enters your head. This styling tip works for me because the less I do, the more I communicate with the rest of my outfit. 

Sneakers are always a good idea. 

Whether you wear a pair of sneakers with your outfit or carry them in a bag to switch into, your feet will be glad you made room for comfort. My mood thrives when I am comfortable, and so does my outfit. Being able to comfortably wear my outfit allows me to feel confident on a different level. 

Jerseys are just the beginning. 

When I began incorporating jerseys into my closet, I felt unique — until I realized it’s a timeless look that I can continue to morph in new ways at different stages of my life. This also changed my relationship with the rest of my clothes. Eventually, I began to look at every item in my closet in new ways. It inspired me to elevate other clothing items to match where I am in life as well. 

Don’t chase trends. 

Blokecore and sportcore may be having a moment on TikTok, but the style is a longtime staple in Latine and Black communities. Wearing sports jerseys and other paraphernalia helped me stand out in a unique and authentic way. 

My neighborhood saw me as a fashion style influence, not because I adhered to any particular trend but because I dared to be myself. While my peers might have been wearing the latest fashion, I was proudly displaying my love for the Mets, showing that style transcends brand names and trends. I was a beacon of individuality in a sea of conformity, and I cherished that role.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

This Petite Clothing Subscription Box Changed The Way I Shop

There’s no better feeling than finding a piece of clothing that fits both your body type and style preferences just right. However, as a (barely) 5’2” petite shopper, that generally hasn’t been the easiest thing for me to accomplish; pants in my waist size tend to be so long that they grace the floor, while shirts meant to be crop tops hit my stomach in awkward, unflattering ways. As a result, I often end up shopping in the teen sections of stores, which can feel embarrassing (I’m 30!), or paying to get my clothes tailored, which can be expensive. A few years ago, though, I discovered Short Story, a clothing subscription service designed specifically for petite women. 

The company was founded in 2019 by Isabella Sun, after the 5’1” CEO realized that over half of all American women are considered petite (5’4” and under) but that options for well-fitting clothing were seriously limited. To rectify the problem, Sun worked with a team of in-house designers to create and test an assortment of trendy, well-made clothing and accessories for petite bodies, offering everything from tops to dresses to shorts to blazers in sizes 00 to 20P. 

The way it works: Shoppers fill out a thorough “style profile” quiz in which they describe their color, material, fit, and price preferences, and give any notes about specific items they’re looking for. Short Story’s team of stylists then review the profile and curate a personalized selection of five items that get shipped to you. Once you get your box, you only pay for the pieces you decide to keep (plus a $25 styling fee that gets credited towards those items), and send back anything you don’t (at no extra charge) using the included return packaging. You can also pause, change, or cancel your subscription at any time without penalty.

Having never paid for a clothing subscription service before, I was intrigued but not too hopeful. But after seeing how detailed the style profile quiz was, I felt optimistic that the curated pieces would be up my alley — and once I got my box just a few days later, I became totally confident that I’d made the right choice. 

Every piece in my first box was perfect, curated exactly to my size and taste. I’d mentioned in my quiz that I was looking for some elevated basics, so my stylist included a pair of straight-leg cropped blue jeans (no hemming needed), a cropped white knit top, and a cozy gray bodysuit, all of which I’ve gotten dozens of uses out of since. I also wrote that I like wearing crop tops and high-waisted bottoms together, so my stylist included a gorgeous high-waisted floral A-line skort that pairs great with the white shirt and so many other tops. Last but not least, because it was the beginning of summer, she added a flowy printed romper that’s ideal for outdoor parties, barbecues, and strolls through the city. Each item fell into the price range I’d specified (between $30 to $100, depending on the type of clothing), and was made from high-quality fabrics that wouldn’t fall apart after just a few wears. I happily kept every piece. 

All in all, it was the easiest and most fun shopping experience I’d had in ages — which is why I decided to subscribe for a new box every few months, so I could gradually fill my closet with more petite-friendly pieces. As my clothing wants and needs change, I update my style quiz accordingly. For my most recent box, for instance, I asked for resort-ready clothes ahead of a spring Mexico vacation, and I received a super cute turquoise tank-and-skirt set, a pair of soft knit shorts, and a beautiful maxi dress, among other great items. 

Of course, like any subscription service, Short Story doesn’t always get it 100 percent right; occasionally, I’ve had to send back a piece or two that isn’t quite my style or doesn’t fit exactly how I’d like. But by and large, using this styling service has been a game-changer, adding so much enjoyment and ease to my petite shopping experience. My next box comes in a month — I can’t wait to see what’s in it!

Sign up for a Short Story subscription box.

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