Spring Outfit Formulas

Five go-to formulas for an elegant, effortless season

Mar 25, 2024

Every season, in addition to updating my wardrobe staples list, I come up with five outfit formulas to make getting dressed simple, quick, and practical. I love to get dressed, and I love clothes, but often it’s really helpful to have a formula to work from, and add visual appeal and an interesting touch that’s unique and specific to that day’s outfit.

My spring season tends to require the following five outfit formulas. I’m sharing them below, and sharing links to pieces I love to recreate the outfit if you’re so inclined.

The business casual outfit

Most of my days in the city don’t require the level of formality expected in previous years, and although I do often wear jeans, I’ve been tending more towards wearing at least business casual clothes (i.e. chinos or slim trousers instead of jeans). I feel better and more confident, and look better too.

Chinos OR slim trousers / popover shirt / loafers or smoking slippers / cashmere tee / structured bag

The “mom” outfit

AKA Elizabeth James in The Parent Trap when she’s made it to Napa. I have always loved this look and, despite its 90s-era provenance, it’s a great one. I generally wear a variation of this outfit for the school run.

Oversized boxy oxford / light jeans / tote bag / striped sweater / quilted jacket / smoking slippers

The participant outfit

This is my go-to when I’m doing something a little more active than my usual routine: a walk with a friend, a tennis lesson with my little one, or an activity where standing on the sidelines by necessity also means being a participant and not an observer.

Classic cardigan / cotton tee / jeans / canvas tennis shoes / tote bag

The “ladies who lunch” outfit

I have a number of formal daytime events in the spring that all seem to be set to this classic Sondheim showpiece.

Lady jacket / slim OR wide-leg trousers, depending on your preference / loafers / thick cotton tee OR silk blouse / small structured handbag / trench coat / pearl studs / pearl necklace

Cocktail attire

I also have a number of standing spring cocktail parties. I have one go-to outfit for this season, and it’s a good one. I vary the look with different accessories.