Now that spring has sprung, it’s time to invest in those essential pieces that will cover off all of the season’s major trends. Update your wardrobe for the coming months of sun-soaked days and warm, balmy nights. The good news is that wearability is the key word for the season. You'll find yourself wearing these pieces over and over; a boldly patterned wrap dress, a white shirt dress, a pair of flats and a silky robe being the top four items that should be on your shopping list. Candy-coloured stripes and khaki utility pieces are other must-haves to transform your look for the warmer weather.


The White Shirt Dress

The classic white shirt dress receives a contemporary makeover this season thanks to interesting cuts, asymmetrical hemlines and extended sleeves. This is one wardrobe investment you will wear season after season, and can be adapted easily for work, weekend or evening wear with simple changes of shoes, accessories and jackets. It will also do double duty for winter months; simply pair with a turtleneck, boots and long-line coat.


The Robe

Don’t feel like getting dressed in the morning? Then don’t. Throw on a silky, slouchy robe with everything from a LBD to a little black bathing suit for Insta-appeal. This update on the recent pyjama trend is flattering, comfortable and captivating, and comes in everything from tartan, spots and stripes to bold jewel-toned block colours and neutrals. If leaving the house in your dressing gown is a little confronting, start with a beach robe or kaftan.

Flats

Slip into a pair of slides to set the footwear tone for spring. Wear them with denim jeans at the weekend, or with a cocktail dress at a spring wedding – the beauty of the slide is its versatility. Opt for an eye-catching embroidered or embellished pair, or keep it sleek and simple with understated tan or black leather. And if you love the height but hate the heels, you’re in luck because this season is also all about flatforms. Choose from a plethora of styles that will enable you to walk tall in comfort, and don’t forget to look for fun features such as metallic materials, embroidered flowers and glitter.


Something Stripey

If you have fond memories of beach holidays surrounded by striped umbrellas, bathers and beach towels, prepare to relive the moment with stripes in every shape, size and colour combination. From Day-Glo and candy stripe combinations on palazzo pants and shift dresses, to more restrained navy-and-white sailor-chic Breton classics, the stripe is your new best friend to sail through spring into summer. 


Utility Chic

Utilitarian khaki garments were reporting for duty at almost every spring/summer show, as designers channelled military and safari influences to create clothes ranging from sophisticated corporate outfits to edgy street wear. Look for cargo pockets, drawstring cords and toggles on jackets and dresses, and choose paperbag or belted trousers to ensure you are fit for any adventure or occasion.