Early spring is in the air and the countdown to the official start of the season is on! Unpredictable weather can present challenges for getting dressed, especially if you live somewhere where the weather swings between cold and warm before fully crossing over.

One of the best ways I’ve found to prepare my wardrobe for any season is to start with the basics, so today I’m sharing a list of spring wardrobe essentials. Once you have the foundational pieces, you can work in any spring trends that resonate with you.

So, whether you’re unsure where to start with spring outfits or need to update spring wardrobe staples, these are 10 spring essentials every woman should have in her closet.

Spring Wardrobe Essentials

1. Short Sleeve T-Shirt

A classic white t-shirt is an essential year round. The feel, fit, and quality of this short sleeve white tee can’t be beat, but this is a classic alternative under $40. See below for more options.

2. Lightweight Jackets

I personally find a trench coat to be the most versatile spring outerwear—it looks just as good over leggings as it does over denim and dresses. The right lightweight jacket for you will depend on your preferences and local climate. I like to have a denim jacket, utility jacket, blazer, and leather jacket in rotation through May or so.

3. White Sneakers

You can’t go wrong with sneakers! Crisp, clean white sneaks go with everything in spring. I have a variety of pairs in my closet, but this clean-lined pair under $100 is my most worn lately. Veja, Golden Goose, Common Projects, and Tretorn are other great brands to check out for springtime sneakers.

4. Light Wash & White Jeans

This time of year, light and bright styles are at the top of my list, and that includes the denim category. I start shifting away from black jeans and bringing out light washes and cropped styles. I shared my favorite white jeans in this post, but Madewell, Everlane, and Levi’s are three denim brands to check out for a reasonable price tag and flattering fit.

5. Blouses & Button Downs

One of my staple looks throughout the year is a statement blouse and jeans, so it’s no surprise that one of my spring wardrobe essentials is a killer blouse. Go simple with a white button down, keep things comfy with a bodysuit, or go feminine with florals and smocking. A few in-season favorites below…

6. Maxi, Midi, and Shirt Dresses

Whether working from home, headed out for dinner, or exploring on vacation, a spring dress is an easy throw-on piece. Long sleeve maxi dresses (I love Reformation’s) are great for chillier days, and you can’t go wrong with a classic white dress. I’m dying at this one and keeping my eyes peeled for a markdown!

7. Spring Sweater or Cardigan

A cardigan, lightweight sweater, or duster is perfect for cool mornings and evenings. I always have something in my bag for working in coffee shops where the A/C is blasting. As for styling, wear a cropped v-neck cardigan solo over denim with sandals or layer a duster over a white tee and your favorite jeans—the options are endless!

8. Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits are polarizing, but for me, they’re a spring essential. One-and-done outfits are the best on busy days, and there are cotton, linen, utility styles perfect for spring temps.

9. Mules 

Mules are a spring style essential for me, especially when I’m tired of booties. These loafer mules are my top investment pick, but there are dozens of affordable options as well.

10. Neutral Handbag

Woven, neutral, textural pieces are to spring what velvet, sequins, and festive colors are to winter. For a bag you can pair with all your spring outfits, I recommend a large woven tote or neutral leather bag.