April showers bring May flowers, and also a serious case of the shopsies. AKA, that intense urge to eschew all your cozy, neutral-hued knitwear for brighter, bolder pieces in lightweight fabrics and vibrant floral prints. There’s just something about spring that makes me want to reinvent my whole wardrobe every year, and 2023 is thus far no different. There are just too many great trends to shop and wear, and with New York Fashion Week still fresh in my mind, I fear my credit card will be getting a lot of use in the coming months. So, what pieces am I most exited to add to cart? I’m glad you asked. Read on for my 20 most-wanted, spring-ready picks—from trendy wide-leg trousers to a Meredith Blake-inspired swimsuit, and even some Velcro sneakers (no, really)—that you may or may not see again very soon on my Instagram page.
fashion
I’m a Fashion Editor & Here’s What I’m Buying This Spring
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What are the top trends for spring 2023?
Not sure where to start with your own spring shopping list? Looking at this season’s trends will definitely help, especially as many are incredibly easy to wear and will still get use even when the next wave of fads hits TikTok. The biggest is definitely green. The hue is everywhere right now, in multiple shades, and is also really easy to incorporate into your existing wardrobe, whether you want to go all in with green dresses and suits or prefer smaller pops by way of a handbag or pair of flats. Speaking of, ballet flats are also having a major moment right now. My favorites are those with a pointed toe and dainty bow detail, but round styles and Mary Janes are just as chic, so go with what you like best. Oversize tote bags, cherry red, denim maxi skirts, knee-high boots, wide leg pants—there are so many more cool trends to invest in this year, so there is plenty out there to inspire your shopping wishlist. Including my top 20 items below.
- Pros: Made from eco-friendly materials, green color is super trendy (but also comes in neutral hues)
- Cons: The Petite and Plus sizes come in fewer color options
I’ve long been a fan of Reformation’s chic and eco-friendly designs, and these pants fit right in with one of the biggest trends of 2023, wide-leg silhouettes. And this green hue is just gorgeous and will look great with a wide variety of spring and summer pieces I already own. The linen flax material will definitely wrinkle more than a heavier cotton pant, but I think that just adds to the relaxed vibes for a warm-weather ‘fit. P.S. I tend to order up one size from my usual when shopping at Reformation, but you can always double check the size chart if you’re unsure.
2. Sam Edelman Bay Radiant Sandals
- Pros: Wear very well over time, no break-in period required, multiple color options
- Cons: Little to no arch support
I own two pairs of Sam Edelman Bay sandals already, but one definitely needs to be replaced after five-plus years of wear. I’m obsessed with the addition of the gold hardware to the top of these easy slides, which makes them look infinitely more expensive than they really are. The soft faux leather also requires little to no break-in period, so you can slip them on and strut about town as soon as you open the box.
- Pros: Inclusive size range, flattering wrap silhouette, works for a multitude of occasions
- Cons: Dry clean only
I’m a sucker for a versatile sundress, which is why this Tanya Taylor mini immediately grabbed my attention. The shirt collar and buttoned cuffs make it feel appropriate for the office, despite the mini length, and the gold hardware means it’s easy to dress up for dinner out on the town or even for a semi-formal wedding reception. The wrap detail is not adjustable—the dress comes on an off with a hidden side zipper—but the 100 percent cotton fabric does offer a tiny bit of stretch. I find Tanya Taylor’s designs tend to run true to size, but if you are unsure you may want to size up one.
Size range: 00 to 22
4. Madewell Boba Sweetheart Top
- Pros: Comfortable ribbed material, trendy neckline
- Cons: Limited size range
I’m excited to swap my usual crewneck black T-shirts for this slightly sexier silhouette to shake things up this spring. The sweetheart neckline has major Bridgerton vibes, without being too on the nose, and I appreciate that it’s long enough to be easily tucked into all my jeans and skirts. It also comes in a deep burgundy hue, but I think classic black will ultimately get the most use in my wardrobe.
Size range: XXS to XXL
- Pros: Machine washable, also comes in black and tan
- Cons: Limited size range
After green, cherry red is poised to be the second biggest color trend of the year. I love that this cardigan can be layered over dresses or worn under a denim jacket or blazer depending on the season. Plus, it’s made from a cotton-wool blend that’s wonderfully soft and cozy while still feeling breathable. I also appreciate the slightly cropped cut, which hits at just the right spot on the hips to maintain your figure without baring your stomach when you raise your arms. Reviews suggest it runs a bit big, so you may want to size down one from your usual.
Size range: XS to XL
- Pros: Bra-friendly, made from super-comfy, sustainable materials
- Cons: Might be too long for petites, hand wash recommended
I was first introduced to this eco-friendly, sustainable Australian brand last year when they sent me a dress and top to test out. But it has swiftly become my new favorite place to shop for ‘90s minimalist wardrobe staples and I’ve bought multiple additional pieces over the past few months. This dress in particular is made from a lightweight pleated fabric that glides beautifully over curves and is purportedly incredibly soft and comfortable. Again, I’m torn between all four of the chic color options, but I think this light beige is likely to win out as the most versatile hue to mix into my existing wardrobe.
Size range: XS to XXL
- Pros: Made from sustainably sourced leather, comes with removable crossbody strap
- Cons: Petite size doesn’t fit much more than the essentials
I first spotted this cute bag in store, but have been thinking about it ever since. Originally I thought I wanted a classic caramel brown version, but now I’m leaning toward this chic pistachio hue. Actually, there are seven fabulous colors to choose from, all made from incredibly soft, sustainable leather. And I love that it can be worn either as a crossbody or carried with the top handle.
8. Abercrombie & Fitch Faux-Leather Pants
- Pros: Lots of colors to choose from, come in multiple inseam lengths
- Cons: Faux leather tends to stretch (so you might want to order one size down)
I’ve had my eye on these cuties for a few months now and think it’s finally time I just buy them already. The leather trouser trend is still going strong and I don’t think it will lose steam any time soon, and this ‘90s-inpsired straight-leg silhouette has a timeless appeal that doesn’t feel too fashion-forward (unlike some wide-leg or cargo designs) meaning I’m more likely to wear them even after leather gives way to another trendy material. According to reviews, they run true to size and are incredibly comfortable. The site also suggests they are machine-washable, but I suggest being very careful before you toss them in with your regular load—put them into a mesh bag to protect them from stray zippers or bra hooks that can damage the material and be sure to use a gentle cycle and cool or cold water.
Size range: 23 to 37, also Extra Short, Short, Long and Extra Long inseams
- Pros: Machine washable, lots of color options
- Cons: Not a ton of arch support
Ballet flats are thus far the biggest shoe trend of 2023, and PureWow’s own Rachel Bowie, director of special projects and co-host of Royally Obsessed, says these flats are 100 percent worth the splurge. The fabric uppers are very comfortable and require a very short break-in period, but the thing that impressed Bowie most is how well these shoes hold up over time—even after years’ worth of washes and wears. “They come with a special wash bag and come out looking as good as they day I bought them,” she says. The site does suggest this style runs small, so you are likely best off ordering a half-size larger than your usual.
10. Sif Jakobs Capizzi X-Grande Earrings
- Pros: Can be worn for day or night, come with a 2-year warranty, timeless design
- Con: Free shipping only within the EU
Fun fact, I didn’t get my ears pierced until I was 28 years old. So now I’m having an absolute blast expanding my earring collection with all sorts of chic hoops, huggies and statement studs. I love that these hoops are more of an oval shape than your typical circular design, and that the white zirconia gems are placed for maximum shine along the front and inside of the hoop. I plan to wear them with everything from a plain white tee and jeans to black tie wedding guest dresses.
11. Banana Republic Harper Ruffle Shirt
- Pros: Comes in Petite and Tall sizes, machine washable
- Cons: Reviews suggest it runs large
I’ll be honest, the last thing I need is another button-up shirt. But the ruffles on the collar and cuffs of this Banana Republic design are unlike anything I already own, and will look so gorgeous poking out from under my favorite sweaters and jackets. The 100 percent cotton fabrication means it’s also breathable and easy to care for. For those who want something with a bit more edge, this blouse also comes in black with matching black buttons.
Size range: XXS to XXL, also Petite and Tall
12. Andie Swim Bells Top and Bikini Bottom
- Pros: Adjustable straps,removable cups, made from recycled materials
- Cons: Hand-wash only
The Parent Trap’s Meredith Blake is not one to look up to for moral guidance, but damn could that woman dress. This retro-inspired bikini immediately made me think of Blake’s hiking getup (in all the best ways), bringing a smile to my face. It also comes in a beautiful marigold yellow with major ‘70s vibes, and for those who prefer more coverage there’s a strappy-back one-piece version of the same suit (that comes in regular and long torso lengths).
Size range: XS to XXXL
- Pros: Made from organic cotton, machine washable, very trendy for 2023
- Cons: Pricey, limited size range
I’ve been wanting to try out the cargo pant trend but have yet to find a pair I felt truly excited about. That is, until I saw these straight-leg jeans. I love that they borrow classic cargo details, like having pockets mid-leg and stand-out seaming, but with a decidedly upscale twist. I can see myself wearing these even after the cargo craze dies down in favor of a different throwback style. And Agolde is well known for its impeccable fit and high-quality denim, so even though these don’t come cheap, I feel confident they’ll fit well and last through multiple wears and washes without stretching out or sagging.
Size range: 24 to 32
- Pros: Trendy silhouette, made from a cotton-cashmere blend
- Cons: Limited size range, hand wash
Collared knits have become one of my favorite trends of the past few years. They are the perfect way to feel dressed up while remaining comfy, making this striped polo sweater a total no-brainer in my book. Once again, that green hue feels right on trend for 2023 and the cotton-cashmere material is both wonderfully soft and breathable. I plan to wear this cutie with jeans and over trousers for weekends and in-office days alike.
Size range: XS to XL
15. Terez Hi-Shine Sports Bra and Bike Shorts
- Pros: High-waist offers great core support, squat-proof material won’t go sheer, machine washable (lay flat to dry)
- Cons: Shorts are not offered in as many sizes as the sports bra
Terez makes some of the most fun workout gear and its latest spring drop is just too fun to pass on. There are lots of White Lotus season 2-inspired patterns, but it was this cheerfully floral that really grabbed my attention. I love that the sports bra has a slightly higher cut so I don’t feel like I’m flashing folks at a cycling class. Plus, for every item purchased, Terez donates one item to Win (Women In Need), the largest provider of family shelter and supportive housing in New York City. I do wish the shorts had pockets on the hips for my phone while I run, but I can always use my belt bag instead.
Size range: XXS to 3X
Size range: XXS to XL
16. Veja Sable Recife Sneakers
- Pros: Made from sustainable, eco-friendly materials, sole is supportive enough for all day wear
- Cons: Only available in whole sizes
I’ve been looking for a simple sneaker that feels slightly more interesting than a plain white style, but is just as versatile. This Veja pair checks all my boxes—including the fact that it’s made from sustainable materials—but the Velcro straps are the icing on the cake. They don’t look juvenile, but have a nostalgic appeal I really love and make it easy to slip in and out of these sneakers. Plus, there’s no need to worry about laces coming undone and tripping you up.
- Pros: Inclusive size range, right on trend for 2023
- Cons: Pricey
In case you haven’t heard, green is the trend of the year, and this gorgeous faux-leather jacket is almost exactly the same shade as the Bottega Green that launched this color to the forefront of our wardrobes. I love that Wray offers all of its designs in sizes XXS through 6XL so a greater number of women can wear its trend-driven pieces. But more than that, the quality of the clothes is incredibly high. I know this faux-leather jacket doesn’t come cheap, but I do think it has the potential to work for multiple seasons, making it worth the splurge in my opinion.
Size range: XXS to 6XL
- Pros: Timeless design, can be worn as a shoulder bag or crossbody
- Cons: Pricey,magnetic closure
The odds of me actually cracking and splurging on this gorgeous shoulder bag are slim, but I have had my eye on it for weeks now, so never say never. It is made from buttery soft Spanish leather and is the perfect size to carry all my essentials, plus a few extras. And the combo of black and brown makes it stand out from other monochrome designs. Loewe’s Luna bag silhouette may be trendy right now, but I also feel confident it will look just as chic in five, ten and even 20 years time.
19. NUUDS Pajama Set
- Pros: Cooling material is great for hot sleepers, machine washable and dryer safe
- Cons: The tag in the pants can be irritating (but is also easily removable)
Full disclosure, I already own a pair of these PJs, but they are so incredible I feel compelled to include them in this list anyway. They are incredibly soft and the rayon-spandex blend is breathable to keep you feeling cool and comfortable all night long. I’m a hot sleeper so that cooling effect is key for me, and these truly live up to the hype. I also love that the pants are actually long enough for my 5’9” frame and that the T-shirt could easily be worn outside the house without anyone knowing it’s sleepwear. I did find that the tag at the back of the waistband irritated me, but it was easy enough to remove. (P.S. NUUDS tends to sell out often, but they restock just as frequently, so if your size is currently out of stock it should be replenished soon.)
Size range: XS to XXXL
20. Farm Rio Black Blooming Garden Midi Dress
- Pros: Made from eco-friendly materials, bra-friendly silhouette
- Cons: Limited size range
Oh, so you also have 45 weddings to attend this year? What fun. Rather than spend my entire budget on new frocks for every special occasion, I plan to invest in this one midi by Farm Rio. The dark floral pattern works for all seasons, and I love that it’s bra-friendly, despite those cut-outs at the waist. It can also be dressed up for more formal affairs with some dainty heels and statement jewelry. Or dressed down with flat sandals and a colorful headband for something more casual. A true Jane of all trades, if you will.
Size range: XXS to XL
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