I’m a Fashion Expert—Here Are 35 Elevated Pieces Worth Buying This Spring

I've worked in the fashion industry as a stylist and editor for close to a decade, so I’d say by now I’m pretty confident in spotting a great wardrobe buy when I see one. Over the years, I’ve seen trends and cult items come and go, experimenting with some along the way. No doubt they were fun while they lasted, but these days, I’m much more about elevated pieces that I know will stand the test of time, whether that means pinpointing the most expensive-looking high-street finds or saving up for luxury pieces I truly love. Each season, I curate my ultimate wish list of classic items worth investing in and share it with you here. So, as we head into spring, keep scrolling to see my classic picks for the months (and years) ahead. 

I have to say I think spring is my favourite season of all. The crisp blue sky days, and the hopefulness that comes with every new sighting of daffodils. The air is suddenly warmer and we can start to shed those dark and heavy layers in favour of lighter, looser styles. I also find that classic items really shine in spring—whether it's a perfect breton knit, or timeless trench coat. You can really get creative with layering if you've got a capsule of tonal neutrals in different textures like linen and silks—with some some stripes thrown in there and the odd floral or pastel piece too. Even just adding one or two of these items can liven up your go-to outfits that may be feeling a little tired. 

This season, in particular, I'm looking for really useful and versatile items I can wear for lots of different outings. Dress weather is back, and I'm being drawn mostly to transitional styles that will take me though summer too—lighter knit styles (like this Raey number) and striped shirt dresses (COS has the perfect one) are top of my wish list.

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(Image credit: John Lewis; River Island; House of Dagmar; Net-A-Porter)

I'm also on the hunt for some key accessories this season as I find these can be a great way to elevate a simple spring outfit. I tend to live in some iteration of jeans and a T-shirt, probably with a blazer thrown over—so the addition of some modern flats, or classic leather sandals and a chic belt or pair of gold hoops can make all the difference. I find switching out my dark leather bags for something woven or raffia is another way to instantly bring an outfit into spring (it's especially useful now, while the weather is still playing catch up) so there's a couple of my favourite styles in the edit below, too.

Creating this list, I realised that actually most spring buys are super classic so I'm convinced I'll rewear them year after year, and in autumn as well. Which is why it’s often in spring that I end up investing the most in key wardrobe pieces—because I have confidence they're worth the money. Whether that means a great quality pair of more sustainable jeans, like Reformation's Liza style, or House of Dagmar's effortless tailored pants.

Keep scrolling to see everything that has my full attention this spring—and let me tell you we're being spoiled by both the high street and designers this year. Of course, I won’t be buying all of this myself, but rest assured even just one of these items will add timeless value to your existing wardrobe. Happy shopping!

Shop My Elevated Spring Edit:

Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.