10 Chic Stylist-Approved Outfit Formulas to Get You Through Spring (2024)

As we wait patiently for spring to get us out of our drabby winter rut, it's hard to figure out what to wear on a daily basis. Somedays require water-resistant pieces to prepare for the sudden onset of rain, while others demand the need for layers that will take us from warm afternoons to brisk nights. This transitional weather has us, as well as our closets, confused.

To bring some clarity to the situation, we tapped 10 style experts to provide us with advice on how to create go-to outfit formulas to make spring styling hassle-free and fun—starting with the basics. Fashion Trend Lead at Primark, John McCormack, shared with Real Simple that we need to break down our wardrobes into “simple building blocks" and concentrate on "a few foundation pieces that, when mixed and matched, can create a multitude of outfit combinations." From simple tanks to the perfect trench coat, see just what pieces our experts recommend adding to your closet to create foolproof looks this spring.

Shop These 10 Pieces to Create the Perfect Spring Outfit Formulas

• Banana Republic Ssculpted Suit Blazer, $77 (was $160); bananarepublicfactory.com.
• Anrabess Two-Piece Sleeveless Tank and Wide-Leg Pant Set, $36 with coupon (was $40); amazon.com.
• Tommy Hilfiger Belted Single-Breasted Trench, $90 (was $169); us.tommy.com.
• J. Jill Stretch Jute Belt, $44; jjill.com.
• Old Navy High-Waisted Barrel-Leg Cargo Ankle Pants, $30 (was $50); oldnavy.gap.com.
• Universal Thread Rib-Knit Maxi Bodycon Dress, $20; target.com.
• Vervet 90s Vintage Flare Stretch Jean, $70; buckle.com.
• Old Navy Fitted Rib-Knit Tank Top, from $4 (was $13); oldnavy.gap.com.
• Funyyzo Wide-Leg High-Waisted Trousers, $41; amazon.com.
• A New Day A-Line Midi Slip Skirt, $25; target.com.

Banana Republic Ssculpted Suit Blazer

Celebrity style and red carpet expert Melissa Rivers believes "nothing screams spring" quite like a brightly colored power suit. "A bold monochromatic power suit is the perfect transition into warmer weather," she stated, recommending a bold red or a pastel shade for a "softer look." This lilac blazer from Banana Republic Factory looks exquisitely tailored with a touch of stretch, thanks to the spandex blend. The style also has a coordinating lilac Sculpted Bootcut Pant for $48, thanks to an extra 20 percent off at checkout.

Anrabess Two-Piece Sleeveless Tank and Wide-Leg Pant Set

Founders of the shoe brand Walk with Dada, Danielle Anderson and Courtney Bolton, also suggested, "when in doubt, lean into monochromatic styling." "When you pair your top and bottom with the same color, it creates a powerful styling too, and that always makes looks put together," they commented, also highlighting, "monochromatic outfits have a timeless appeal that never goes out of style."

Tommy Hilfiger Belted Single-Breasted Trench

Get ready for your most stylish April showers with a simple trench coat. The year-round wardrobe staple is “a timeless outer layer that is on trend each year because it's always chic and practical," according to closet curator and personal stylist Laura P. Barker. She swears that, teamed with straight-leg denim, a silky tank top, flats, and a tote, the combo makes an "easy French formula" that "works for every day."

J. Jill Stretch Jute Belt

Don't forget about versatile accessories. Elliot Staples, creative director for J.Jill, recommended that "a simple belt, in a contrast material, adds texture and shape to any outfit." This particular jute design works just as well "threaded through linen wide-leg trousers" as it does "over a dress" and adds "a polished element of style." Since the belt was constructed with no punched holes, you can adjust the stretchy belt exactly to your comfort level.

Old Navy High-Waisted Barrel-Leg Cargo Ankle Pants

"Cargo pants with pockets, buckles, and straps become not just utilitarian features, but also stylish embellishments, adding an edgy and contemporary flair," noted Swati Kelkar, Chief Product Officer of women's clothing brand Maurices. She encouraged pairing them with "an elegant blouse for a balanced silhouette against the relaxed fit of the cargo pants and casual footwear for a comfortable vibe."

Universal Thread Rib-Knit Maxi Bodycon Dress

Style coach Liz Wendler insisted that if you're going to shop for just one dress, make it an ultra-adaptable and lightweight ribbed one that can work for various "spring climates." It can easily be styled to various looks, too. For some inspo, she suggests you "create some edginess" with a sleek leather jacket or give your look a more "casual" feel by adding sneakers.

Vervet 90s Vintage Flare Stretch Jean

The 90s epic flared jeans trend is back, said stylist and co-founder of Amour781 Ashley Full. There's virtually no wrong way to wear them, but Full advised styling them with "your favorite white tee or white button-down to keep it clean and simple" or "a metallic slingback for a little bit of a dressy look." For a statement-making moment, add "floral details" or "standout accessories."

Old Navy Fitted Rib-Knit Tank Top

According to San Diego-based personal stylist Jaquelyn Wahidi, your basic tank top is getting an elevated upgrade with a high-neck cut. The "failsafe option" is a "great base" and can be effortlessly layered with a scarf, blazer, or jacket for "added warmth." To make the look even more rainy day-friendly, Wahidi would add Chelsea boots and high-waisted flare jeans.

Funyyzo Wide-Leg High-Waisted Trousers

Shana Draugelis of The Mom Edit argued that she's swapping out her jeans for full-length and wide-leg trousers this season and is giving "bonus points for pleats." Your new go-to formula should be trousers, a T-shirt, and a low-profile pair of sneakers. She explained that it's "an easy outfit that's both effortless and cool."

A New Day A-Line Midi Slip Skirt

Would it be spring without an "effortlessly cool" slip skirt you can throw on with a basic tee? Founder and lead stylist of Wave + Woven, Amanda Vargus, would beg to differ. "It's the perfect formula to be comfortable and remain chic," she pointed out. Vargus also noted, "you'll find plenty of versatility in a neutral or black, but you also shouldn't shy away from a subtle print or pop of color this season."