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According to the calendar it’s officially spring – the equinox was last Friday – and Daylight Saving Time starts today (don’t forget to put your watch forward an hour!). While we’re all hungry for blue skies and sunshine, your wardrobe may not feel quite as in sync with the big seasonal shift. Heavy coats and denim won’t do as the mercury rises – but there’s no need to revamp your whole look. These five easy style swaps are all you need to kick-start the new season.
THE FUNNEL NECK JACKET
Shelve the shearling and wool city coats. Whether it’s a bomber, biker or windbreaker, if you invest in one new jacket this year make sure it has a funnel neck. The sculptural style was first spotted on Phoebe Philo’s runway; her leather trench had a collar so big it was practically eye-skimming. Now Philo-inspired outerwear is everywhere. And this piece is not just for young shoppers. You could say it’s anti-ageing apparel – its stiff high collar is excellent for hiding crepey skin.
A model struts in a funnel-neck jacket at the Nanushka Spring/Summer 26 runway in September
THE PLEATED TROUSERS
Breathe new life into your wardrobe by alternating your denim with a lighter option. At the latest fashion month, editors, It girls and influencers had already swapped their jeans for breezy, ankle-swinging tailored trousers. Wide-leg cuts were the most popular, as they are universally flattering, but classic straight legs abounded too. And almost all had pleats from the hip. If you’re petite, don’t shy away from the trend. Reiss and Whistles both stock brilliant offerings for smaller frames.
THE LRB (LITTLE RED BAG)
Fashion’s love affair with scarlet continues. Last year it came for your knitwear and this time it’s coming for your arm candy. Cue the LRB (little red bag). Spotted as the go-to accessory of Fashion Week dwellers in February and on the Baftas red carpet, this uplifting piece will instantly boost your look. Still drenched in black? Just slip this bag over your shoulder. Are you one of the beige brigade? Let this swing from the crook of your arm. It’s the ultimate one-buy wonder that will edge your existing outfit formulas into the new season.
THE SNEAKERINAS
Meet the hybrid shoe of the season: a ballet flat combined with a sneaker. Smart and dainty, these are a far cry from your usual trainers, but they’re just as comfy, stable and supportive underfoot when clocking up steps. Plus, the lace-up feature provides a customisable fit and they have better arch and ankle support than bog-standard slip-ons. Consider it orthopaedic, yet elegant. John Lewis’s Eagle suede sneakerinas are a bestseller for good reason.
THE QUARTER-ZIP KNIT
Yes, it’s getting milder, but let’s be clear, it’s not tropical. Enter the quarter-zip knit – the perfect piece for brisk mornings and chilly evenings. Back in January, against the backdrop of a New York subway station, designer Matthieu Blazy opened Chanel’s pre-fall Métiers d’Art show with a beige jersey version – and ever since the fashion pack have been buying up these borrowed-from-the-finance-bros jumpers in bulk. Its relaxed business aesthetic makes it an excellent elevated basic to keep cosy in. Just don’t wear yours over a tie and a shirt.
