You know you have good fashion sense when your outfit looks straight out of a Pinterest board. Whether it’s the annual return of the widely-treasured maxi skirt or the classic pairing of jorts and a gingham button-up, we see the vision. What’s the secret behind your “spring outfit inspo” Pinterest board that these fashion gurus don’t tell you? Their outfits are probably thrifted or crafted using items they already own. As college students who consider themselves expert stylists with a keen eye for spring fashion, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to add some life to your wardrobe and spring into style this season!
Not today, Easter Bunny
When you think of spring fashion, your mind might immediately jump to pastels. While we love a good pale pink or baby blue, spring is about splashes of color, not looking like an Easter egg. Don’t shy away from deep turquoise, lime green, hot pink, or bright orange — these shades deliver a fun, eye-catching pop of color.
If you can’t completely part ways with pastels, we get it. Blend them in to really shake things up! If you’re a fan of monochrome, incorporate different shades of the same color to bring even more fun to your outfit. If you prefer smaller accents, your accessories can steal the show! Opt for colored tights: A funky bright green or a tangerine orange is sure to add the lively accent your outfit has been asking for.
April showers bring May flowers … and gingham and polka dots and …
As we shake the dreary winter season off our shoulders, baby buds begin to bloom, and it’s time for your outfits to do the same. Floral patterns are the best way to liven up your mood. After all, who can be sad when they’re decked out in flowers? But florals aren’t the only pattern fit for spring — take this year as the chance to try something new! Polka dots and stripes feel perky in a way that suits the longer days and warmer weather, while gingham can remind you of picnic parties with friends. If adding intense designs to your wardrobe intimidates you, let the pattern speak for itself. Paired with a solid-colored tank or T-shirt, a gingham button-up shirt or striped linen shorts work to add an extra layer of depth — all without drowning you in the statement piece.
From pumpkin patches to flower fields
Instagram pumpkin patch photo dumps have officially died down. It’s time to say hello to its springtime equivalent: flower field pictures. What pops up in both of these seasons? Denim. This time, we’re switching out moody dark washes for airy, sun-kissed blues. We’ll make an exception for, at most, light medium wash, but nothing too bleak.
And since it’s spring, we obviously have to kick it up a notch with denim capris! The magic of capris is that they simply are the outfit. What’s more, you can easily DIY these from an old pair of jeans. Forget making your top the centerpiece — your cute jeans will happily do all the talking. Take the opportunity to tap into your creative side and pick up your abandoned embroidery thread — sew on some cute flowers, swirl patterns, or even ladybugs for the perfect spring touch.
Ol’ reliable — the trusty tank top
We know you have it. Hidden in the back of everyone’s closet lies the handy-dandy tank top. It might feel simple, but it still saves you when you have zero clue what to wear. We can hear your cries now, “How can a Plain Jane tank be fun?” Don’t doubt us, dear reader, we have the answers!
Spring fashion is all about elevation — layer a vibrant cropped tee over your tank, criss-cross the straps for a halter effect, or even flip it upside down and tuck the straps in to create a tube top. To add your own personal flair, try bleach painting your favorite pattern or ironing a graphic onto those tank tops. Because San Diego’s spring weather never seems to decide on a consistent temperature, you can always pair it with a light cardigan or layer a long-sleeve tee underneath. While tank tops are the whole outfit in the summer, they make the perfect base in the spring.
Goodbye winter sweat stains, hello flowy, fun, and fresh!
Spring is all about letting loose, feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair. Emulate that vibe in your style! From button-up shirts to puff-sleeved babydoll tops, blouses that are flowy and breathable are perfect for springtime adventures.
The best part about these pieces is how easy they are to style. For long-sleeved button-ups, opt for an oversized fit paired with a white or patterned tank underneath. Whether you tie your button-up around your waist, keep it open, or tuck it in, this look is surely a no-brainer. Babydoll tops bring the same kind of charm. From square neck to scoop neck, these breezy spring staples aren’t going anywhere. If you want to add a hint of flair, layer a white lace tank underneath! You can complete the look with your favorite pair of bootcut jeans or match your blouse with your new DIY capris for the ultimate 2000s throwback.
Putting a spring in your step
It’s time for you to put away your winter boots and start defrosting the real funky footwear. The first signs of spring should bring back some key memories — remember those ballet flats you bought for that one formal event and then never wore again? You better dig them out because they’ll add a spring spark to any fit that will make you look ready for a picnic. The same is true for kitten heels or oxfords, which look just as good dressed up with linen pants as they do dressed down with jeans. Another versatile choice is the chunky sandal. Cute and casual, it’s the best choice for braving the outdoors and enjoying gardening and farmers markets. You can find unique variations of any of these at your local thrift store. A new season means new ways to style shoes!
When you’re scrolling through fashion inspo, it feels impossible not to immediately purchase an entirely new wardrobe. But remember, spring also means spring cleaning — for you, that might mean donating old pieces to make room for new ones from the thrift store, or simply repurposing what you already have.
We hope our guide helps as you outfit yourself for the new season. Whether you’re skipping through a flower field of daisies or locking in for Spring Quarter, you’re bound to do it in style!
