Spring in the UK is an unpredictable time. One day you might be battling rain showers and a chilling breeze en route to work, then 24 hours later the clouds part and suddenly you’re wearing two layers too many. Torn between the desperation for sunshine and the fear of winding up wishing you'd worn a coat, not a jacket, dressing for this time of year can be a challenge.
Thankfully, the fashion gods have blessed us with one item that makes building an outfit so much easier. You guessed it, dresses. Each week, a drop of fresh frocks lands in every store on the high street (and online); All you need to do is slip one on and your look is 90% complete.
Now that boot season is almost behind us, you might be wondering which shoes to wear with all those dresses on your wish list. Is it too soon for sandals? Do trainers work with every silhouette? From voluminous minis to denim midis, we've figured out exactly the right footwear route to go down for different dress styles.
The beauty of the looks we've gathered is that they can be easily tailored to colder weather with the simple addition of a chunky knit, bomber jacket or trench coat. See for yourself—scroll on for 10 dress-and-shoe outfits worth trying this spring.
1. Black Midi + Loafers
Style Notes: You might not get away with wearing top-to-toe black in the balmy Mediterranean, but here in the UK, we enjoy the luxury of rocking this staple shade year-round.
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Available in a few floral prints too—perfect for holidays.
There isn't an outfit in the world this streamlined loafer wouldn't work with.
2. Pastel Dress + White Trainers
Style Notes: Once spring finally arrives, we can't resist the temptation of pastels. I'll be wearing ice-cream hues with casual trainers, like Candice.
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Exactly the kind of light-as-air dress you'll want to live in on your holidays. Or, add a denim or khaki shacket if you're sticking around the UK this season.
Neutral trainers are an ideal pairing with patterned dresses.
3. Slip Dress + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Slinky slip dresses scream summer, but while we wait for it to arrive, chuck a fluffy cardigan on top. Ballet flats are an elegant choice for this look.
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The epitome of luxury.
This is one of Aeyde's most popular styles right now, and we can see why.
4. Cotton Dress + Slides
Style Notes: Give me a structured cotton dress with puff sleeves, and I'm happy. I'll also be stepping into slides at the first sign of warmth, or if I decide to book a weekend getaway somewhere sunny. In the meantime, I'll be pairing a similar-style dress with trainers and a trench.
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How divine is this earthy orange shade!?
Hands up if you're excited to let your toes breathe.
5. Slip Dress + Slingback Heels
Style Notes: It doesn't get more classic than a slip dress with slingback heels. Spring weather often calls for an extra layer, a look Thandi executes perfectly. Whether it's a sleek, tailored blazer or a more casual denim jacket, there's no better dress for pairing underneath than this straight-cut style.
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Satin midi dresses are spring-summer staples. Wear alone or layered with a blazer.
A classic silhouette that'll have a permanent spot in your closet.
6. Cotton Dress + Mary Jane Flats
Style Notes: Long-sleeve cotton dresses were made for the early days of spring. Effortless and lightweight without straying into strapless summer territory, this modern-day staple will meet your needs.
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A dress this classic will go with any shoes, jumpers or jackets you want to pair it with.
A chic way to partake in a shoe trend that's not going anywhere.
7. Denim Dress + Loafers
Style Notes: You've probably noticed we can't get enough of denim lately. Use sleek black loafers to smarten up this casual fabrication.
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We love how Franny wore a simple white tee underneath her denim dress like this.
I love the subtle cinching on these loafers.
8. Floral Dress + Converse
Style Notes: Florals are to spring what stripes are to French girls. Classic converse will keep this timeless print feeling cool and down-to-earth.
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Every time I go on Instagram, I spot someone wearing a Réalisation dress.
These will never get old.
9. Side-Split Dress + Mary Janes
Style Notes: With brighter evenings come more opportunities to go out-out. Take advantage and wear something eye-catching, paired with platform heels.
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Compliments guaranteed.
A more glamorous take on classic Mary Janes—perfect for nights out.
10. Monochrome Mini + Clogs
Style Notes: It's never too early to start working on that tan. Choose a leg-baring mini and comfy clogs for a laid-back weekend look.
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So pretty.
If you want to try out the clog trend without breaking the bank, this is a great option.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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