It always feels as though spring will never arrive and we are destined to remain buried under winter layers forever.
But then the mornings slowly grow brighter, blossoms begin to appear and the air feels just that bit warmer. And then comes the biggest sign of all: the nation’s tights and socks are gleefully flung aside.
At that moment you think: Oh finally – there you are!
I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited to pack away my winter coats and chunky knitwear and step out instead in lighter, brighter spring favourites.
If you’re on the hunt for something fresh for the season ahead, you’re in exactly the right place. As a fashion expert I’ve compiled a tight edit of pieces that will instantly put spring in your step.
Joanne Hegarty has scoured the High Street and little-known brands to compile the ultimate shopping guide
These pieces are the perfect morale booster after a long winter – ready and waiting to meet the sunshine.
Every season brings a few reliable heroes – and, naturally, a handful of newcomers eager to steal the spotlight.
I’ve scoured the High Street brands and the ones to watch – high and lower-end – to compile the ultimate shopping guide, and save you time and money.
Enjoy!
The best jackets
Right now the fashion set are obsessed with technical jackets – and it’s easy to see why. They strike that elusive balance between form and function. Surprisingly versatile, they lend everything from tailoring to dresses and denim an instant shot of cool.
You’d never guess that The White Company have produced the best of the bunch – but here it is. It’s a cotton-rich blend with a flattering drawcord, and reasonably priced too for the quality.
Always top of my list for spring is the ever-chic trench coat – perfect for navigating sudden showers while channelling effortless French-girl polish. A trench is timeless, ageless and oh so very useful.
Joanne wears the Toteme Signature Trench Coat which has a relaxed, modern shape
However, not all trenches are created equal. There are countless options out there, but my ultimate favourite has to be the Toteme Signature Trench Coat. Its effortlessly cool silhouette and relaxed, modern shape feel completely unrivalled. I bought mine two years ago and, if anything, I love it more every time I put it on.
If you fancy something brighter, Toteme has also introduced a striking red trench which has been very popular. It looks extremely chic for spring styled with simple white jeans.
Funnel-neck jackets are one of the fashion hits of the season. COS has a show-stopping short leather trench alternative with its stylish, on-trend funnel neck in a flattering relaxed shape./
If you prefer something more classic, Sézane’s Clyde trench – with its attractive checked lining and in this season’s popular olive – is a reliably chic option.
The ultimate jeans
Buying jeans is so intimidating for so many – the choice is endless, and the fits are not always flattering. Don’t worry though – I’ve made it easy for you by winnowing the High Street into the only four styles you need to worry about this spring.
Kick-flare jeans
With so many people obsessing over Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s ’90s style – thanks in part to Ryan Murphy’s series Love Story – it was only a matter of time before these returned to fashion.
The beauty of this flattering silhouette is that it looks just as good with a simple T-shirt as it does with a blazer. The kick-flare shape does all the work.
The straight leg
Thankfully, the much-debated skinny jean has remained firmly out of favour. Instead, the classic straight leg is having a well-deserved moment, and this light-blue high-street pair is an excellent choice. They look especially chic styled with ballet flats or polished loafers.
The classic straight leg is having a moment, try the Reprise pair from Cos
Indigo jeans are on trend, such as the Temple Plush from Palome in dark washed blue
Dark blue
Indigo – a deeper shade often associated with winter – is now a strong spring contender. The beauty of this hue is its leg-lengthening, slimming effect.
A vintage feel
Nothing in my style book rivals a pair of Levi’s 501s – especially vintage ones with that coveted lived-in look. I’m always on the hunt for the perfect pair.
My go-to places for finding them are Merci and the Le Marais district in Paris, or vintage stores along Portobello Road. I always recommend trying them on in person rather than buying online – the fit and character can vary enormously from pair to pair.
Dopamine colours
Buttery yellow is the star of the season, including this cardigan from Cos
Bright, joyful and ready for brighter days – it’s time for a little dopamine dressing again.
Colour-wise, buttery yellow is the star of the season, looking especially chic when paired with creamy whites. Icy and royal blues, along with every shade of green, are also having a moment – bringing a fresh, nature-inspired energy that keeps the new season feeling vibrant yet grounded. Try this gorgeous, light jumper from &Daughter – or this butter yellow one from Cos.
Why you need suede
This soft, luxurious texture – the kind that almost makes you want to stroke the fabric – is back again. And when it comes to the high street, nobody does it better than the Spanish chain Massimo Dutti – just look at this gorgeous skirt and leather jacket.
The accessories every woman will want
Tassel details are this season’s playful twist on accessories, adding a dollop of glamour to any outfit. I especially love a tassel necklace or belt draped over a T-shirt or dress to add instant personality to spring style.
Joanne wears a black tassel necklace over a white shirt, adding a dollop of glamour
Shoes
The classic ballet flat is one of the leading shoe trends this spring, but it has evolved stylishly for SS26.
The lace-up ballerina blends the shoe’s slender silhouette with inspiration from jazz and driving shoes. Favoured by fashion insiders like Lily-Rose Depp and spotted on the runways of Celine and Ganni, these flats are a versatile wardrobe essential as the weather warms.
The Adidas Samba Janes is the ultimate spring trend, a sneaker-flat hybrid
Another interesting trend is the sneaker–flat hybrid – think trainers that resemble ballet shoes or Mary Janes.
Thong sandals and flip-flops are officially fashionable again, but in refined materials such as leather or satin. Designers such as Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta showed them on the catwalk in both flat and heeled versions.
The best phone cases
Most of us have our phones surgically attached to us, so why not make them stylish too? Cases with cords are proving particularly popular this spring.
Here are two more of my favourite cases with a strong fashion sense.
3D Bubble Phone Case – Free People and the Tortoiseshell Phone Case – L’Artiste.
The most stylish skirts
The pencil skirt is back – but softer and more relaxed than the office version we remember. Think fluid fabrics, lighter colours and subtle slits. Styled with sandals or trainers and worn with oversized shirts or cardigans, it suddenly feels fresh again.
The pencil skirt is back – but softer and more relaxed than the office version
Full, swishy skirts are one of the biggest silhouettes this season. Lean into movement and drama with midi and maxi styles that flare from the waist.
Style with a simple white T-shirt, a fitted knit or a crisp shirt, and accessorise with ballet flats or kitten heels.
Bias pants
For evening wear, I love satin trousers teamed with a blazer, heels and a clutch. Simple but very sophisticated and effective.
Almada Bias Satin Pants in pearl, a simple but very sophisticated piece
LABELS TO WATCH
Palome
Elizabeth Morling founded her label with a focus on responsibly crafted ready-to-wear. She partners with the same ateliers behind fashion’s most renowned houses, using surplus materials to create her pieces. It’s being called the new Sezane.
Laura Pitharas
Laura is inspired by bringing femininity to traditionally masculine silhouettes. She often refers to her brand as ‘menswear for womenswear’, with the aim of making women feel their best through understated elegance.
Aya by Chelsy Davy
Aya was founded by Chelsy Davy – yes, Prince Harry’s former girlfriend – a lawyer turned gemologist with a fascination for coloured gemstones and fine jewellery.
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