Put a spring in your step and warm up to new season trends

SPRING IS THE TRICKIEST TIME to dress for. Not only do we crave better weather but we yearn to shake off the shackles of wintry oversized knits and layers – only to realise that the best sartorial answer for a cool spring breeze is your favourite woolly jumper. This week though, I feel like it’s finally time to embrace warmer weather. Fashion is weather-restrictive and whether we like it or not, we stick to dark colours and chunky outerwear when it’s cold – even if our calendar has different expectations.

A few key players for SS17 dominated the catwalk and are now making their way on to the high street. The first is inspired by designers’ obsession with the 1980s – big shoulders and sleeves in even bigger proportions. You will need to overcome any lingering unease about all things associated with the era but actually the ‘big blazer’ is spring’s alternative to the trench coat. Long and generously tailored with moulded shoulders, it’s a surprisingly comfortable and flattering alternative to its shorter, fussier sister. Fling it on over a jumper and jeans combo for everyday wear, with a silky slip dress and heels for evening, or with a shirt dress and you’re office-ready. The length depends on how tall you are but it should skim over the bottom and thighs, especially if you’re wearing tight trousers.

Cuts tend to be straight up and down, think of it as a tailored alternative to the coatigan. It should be big enough to allow for a slinky jumper and neat enough to work over a dress or a blouse. Light wool and tweed versions from Mango, Zara and & Other Stories will offset a chic polished look. If you prefer a heavier, more creased look, Siopaella and Harlequin on Castle Drury Street stock no-nonsense vintage styles.

The second player this season comes courtesy of the street style set. The corset belt/shirt hybrid has subsequently taken off and is spring’s answer to layering. A thick leather belt or an obi belt fashioned as a cinching corset over a blouse – go for big statement fluted sleeves – or a shirt dress is the new trick. My advice: stick to black with white or navy.

Nailing a practical spring wardrobe is never complete without the right shoes either. It’s still chilly and far too early for an open toe but don’t rule out a backless shoe if your feet are naturally getting tired of boots. Slingbacks in flatter proportions are a good option – Marks & Spencer and Topshop have some really cute styles. They’re not really made for wearing with tights so go bare-legged if you are wearing dresses. The other alternative to trousers is micro-fine fishnets, which should be relatively painless from here on in.

The ‘big blazer’ is spring’s alternative to the trench coat