7 Chic and Trend-Proof Spring Outfits I'm Copying From Stylish Europeans

It's officially spring and stylish Europeans have been leading the outfit charge with their chic, put-together looks. See the ones I plan on re-creating myself this season and quite probably next.

A collage of stylish European women wearing chic spring outfits
(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

If there's one thing I know, it's that Europeans do spring style best. I am aware of the fact that I'm grouping together a large amount of people in that sentiment, but those who reside on the continent have a knack for embracing the change in season unlike many others. I think this is down to the excitement that follows the rise in temperatures and brighter skies—other countries which are treated to this year round won't be able to grasp the sheer elation shared by the people of Europe when you can leave the house without wearing a minimum of six layers, the day that you can slip into suede sandals for the first time or the realisation that, no, you don't need to wear a hat and gloves to run an errand.

As such, Europeans embrace spring in all its glory, thus starting with outfits. As soon as we're able, skin is exposed, but in ways that still feel seasonally appropriate (though there will always be that person who steps out in shorts and a tank top a little too soon and tries to act as nonchalant as possible about it. Often, layering is still advisable, but said layers become lighter and wafty. Hemlines will rise, but the savviest dressers will still ensure they have some coverage elsewhere in case of an unexpected spring downpour or celsius dip. It's this tact that Europeans employ onto their spring outfits that makes them so compelling, whether they reside in Paris, Stockholm or London (who, in their hearts, still consider themselves to be very much a part of Europe).

Now that the season is in full swing, I've charted some of the most recent spring looks I've seen on the European women I follow that have instilled me with newfound inspiration—and I believe they'll do the same for you, too. Scroll below to see them.

7 Stylish European Spring Outfits I'm Replicating This Season

1. Trench Coat + Striped Shirt + Capri Pants

@nnennaechem wears capri pants with a blue shirt and a trench coat

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Style Notes: It might be palatable enough to cast aside your bulky winter coats, but there's still merit in having a trench coat on hand for chillier spring days. Thrown over a look consisting of a breezy cotton shirt and cute capri pants, simply switch in different shoes depending on what the day holds (though, like Nnenna Echem, I can't wait to wear my heeled flip flops again).

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2. Breton Top + Pretty Skirt + Suede Tote

@iamsaraouardii wears a stripe top with a pink pencil skirt

(Image credit: @iamsaraouardii)

Style Notes: Breton stripes are the cornerstone of so many excellent European outfits, not just those worn by the French! Here, I enjoy how the staple piece is made to feel so fresh with the addition of a skirt in one of the spring's biggest colour trends, powder pink, and a rich chocolate brown suede tote.

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3. Draped Top + Wide-Leg Trousers + Sandals

@monamali_ wears an asymmetric top with navy wide-leg trousers and sandals

(Image credit: @monamali_)

Style Notes: The best part about spring dressing is not having to hide an excellent outfit underneath a coat or jacket (that is, unless, it is integral to your look). Take this top for example—the draped detail looks elevated and polished, even when paired with simple pieces such as wide-leg trousers and slider sandals. Also, the colour combination of pale yellow and navy blue showcased by Mona Mali is inspired.

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4. Lightweight Jacket + Knitted Shorts + Loafers

@divrav wears a pair of crochet shorts with loafers and a technical jacket

(Image credit: @divrav)

Style Notes: Is it me or are there so many lightweight beige jackets around at the moment? From the streets of London to the cobblestones of Paris, it's a piece I'm seeing crop up over and over. What I like about it most is how it allows for versatile styling—as evidenced by this crochet shorts look, which has been given a spring twist thanks to the jacket, as well as the addition of black leather loafers and white ankle socks.

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5. Throw-On Dress + Mary Janes + Shoulder Bag

@laylaabbey wears a two-part dress with gingham mary janes and a studded bag

(Image credit: @laylaabbey)

Style Notes: Nothing says spring like a throw-on dress and this style—dresses with a combined vest top and full cotton skirt—are perfect for now. Mary Janes are a natural choice where footwear is concerned, as is a chic leather shoulder bag. Tie a neutral knit around your waist and shoulders so you have something to fall back on if you get cold.

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6. Tie-Front Top + T-Shirt + Trousers

@ingridedvinsen wears a pair of white trousers with a white broderie blouse

(Image credit: @ingridedvinsen)

Style Notes: Looping back to layering, this look, which features a tie-front waistcoat, is reworked for spring by wearing a fitted T-shirt underneath. All-white outfits are always popular across Europe and this outfit presents the ideal way to wear one ahead of summer. PSA: braided Mary Janes will be a huge shoe trend over the next few months.

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7. Linen Top + Full Skirt + Chic Accessories

@leasy_inparis wears a white linen blouse with a brown linen skirt and gold jewellery

(Image credit: @leasy_inparis)

Style Notes: Linen is integral to spring and summer styling which is good news if you're like me and it's your favourite fabric to wear. For now, look to long-sleeve blouses and full midi skirts to ensure you're going to be warm enough. Sandals might even be an option on the days temperatures hit 15°C and above.

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Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.