6 Favorite Spring Outfit Formulas Illustrated

In yesterday’s blog post I shared my absolute favorite elevated spring outfit formula, but I couldn’t resist the opportunity to share more great spring outfit formulas today. The cool days of spring sometimes seem to drag on forever. But before we know it, we’ll no longer be adding those completer pieces and our outfits will be decidedly lighter for those hotter days of summer. So before spring slips past us, I’m rounding up 6 favorite spring outfit formulas for us to wear now.

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Today I’m illustrating 6 “looser” spring outfit formulas. These are really just style formulas that you can work within other equations that you enjoy wearing. You’ll see what I mean as we get going. You can shop current looks through the links in the captions of the photo. Some photos are from previous seasons, so those items are not available. You can check out the details of all outfits in the original blog post through the link in the caption.

Bookend Your Outfit

I often forget about the opportunity to bookend my outfits by wearing the same color up top and in my shoes. But this is such a great way to pull together a look.

During the winter bookending your look can sometimes look a little heavy because shoes are heavier. So drawing that much attention to a shoe with a contrasting color can in your pants or skirt makes the shoe look heavy. But during the spring and summer when our shoes are smaller or more strappy, this formula works beautifully.

Double Up Your Color Up Top

I’m a big proponent of doubling up the color in your top and your jacket, cardigan or button-up shirt. I never would have thought to do this just 5 years ago, but I wear this formula on repeat since I learned it. And I always get great results.

Because this formula works so well, I always try to purchase a tank in the same color as my button-up shirts. And I often purchase a tee or tank in the same color as my blazers, cardigans or jackets, too. Here’s an example from last year below.

Go Monochromatic

A monochromatic or tonal outfit is always chic, really any time of the year. But during the spring we don’t have to include as many elements to work this equation.

A tonal outfit doesn’t have to be comprised of garments in the exact same color. And you can also wear elements in a print to create a beautiful monochromatic outfit, like I did below.

Combine Black and White with Cognac Accessories

I love the combination of black and white with cognac accessories year round. But during the spring and summer those accessories play a bigger part in the equation. My first thought might be to wear black belt, shoes and handbag with a black and white outfit. And that would be okay. But cognac leather accessories add richness and depth to this outfit formula.

At the top of the post you did see me wear ivory and black with black accessories. And I definitely think the black looks more cohesive there. But there’s just something about adding cognac (caramel, saddle leather, rich brown) accessories to black and true white.

This isn’t a rule, by the way. None of these formulas are rules. But they do yield great results, so keep them in mind as you’re putting together outfits for the spring and into summer.

Dress with Sandals

Of course wearing a dress with sandals is also perfect for summer, but now is the time to start working this formula when the weather allows.

I tend to choose sandals in a flesh tone or, my favorite with dresses, gold. But, if you choose a strappy sandal that doesn’t add a lot of “visual weight,” you could also opt for a black, cognac or colored sandal.

This formula works beautifully for vacation dresses or casual outings. But it can also work for dressier occasions if you choose the sandal carefully.

That’s why it’s smart to have some more casual sandals and some that are a little dressier, maybe with a heel.

Trending Polo Top with Ankle Pants/Jeans

Keep your classic outfits looking current by wearing modern elements. One of the most current looking garments that’s also a classic is a polo top.

So this spring opt for a colored top like a polo or Johnny collar instead of a basic t-shirt whenever possible. Wear one over ankle length jeans or pants and add stylish shoes – you’ve got a great spring outfit!

Thanks so much for stopping in for a little style inspiration today. If you are a regular here you know that I’ve been reusing photos from older blog posts, and you may have seen all of these before. Keep in mind that I spent a week and a half away from my photographer (my husband!). I’ll have fresh outfits for you next week. Have a great weekend!

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