Spring is almost in the air, and fashion expert Jess Cartner-Morley is celebrating with a curated selection of style essentials. From bouncy trainers to spring-ready jackets and a pop of red, these picks promise to refresh your wardrobe guilt-free. As magnolia buds appear and daylight lingers, it's time to embrace chic layers and thoughtful accessories.
Essential Knitwear and Haircare
Whistles Lacing Detail Crew Jumper: Priced at £135.20, this jumper offers more than your average woolly. With side-lacing that adds interest and tapers your silhouette, raglan sleeves for a flattering fit, and a ribbed cotton-knit that resists bobbling, it's a worthwhile investment. Available in ivory with black lacing, though care is needed to avoid colour bleeding in the wash.
Hair Syrup Grows-Mary Oil: Starting from £14.50 at Boots, this overnight rescue oil is a time-efficient solution for fragile hair. Massaged in overnight and washed out in the morning, it leaves hair shiny and soft, despite its rosemary scent reminiscent of a Sunday roast.
Statement T-Shirts and Layering Pieces
Bella Freud Give Me Some Good News T-shirt: At £95, this slogan T-shirt speaks to current times, reflecting the designer's influence as a podcaster and fashion icon.
Gather & See British Wool V-Neck Vest: Priced at £195, this sleeveless knit is more useful than it looks. It adds definition over shirts and trousers, works for layering, and is crafted from British wool sourced and made in England by small-batch brand Elwin.
Accessories and Sustainable Fashion
Anya Hindmarch Chilli Sauce Card Case: At £275, this tiny item encourages downsizing in the post-cash age. It's a daily touchpoint that adds humour to life, designed by the beloved Anya Hindmarch.
Akyn Tallie Jumper: Priced at £350, this piece from Amy Powney's sustainable brand features a signature "pearl shoulder" detail. Made from responsible wool blended with recycled nylon, it represents an investment in both wardrobe and planet.
Bags, Jackets, and Footwear
Cos Montmartre Bowling Bag: At £139, this bag combines ergonomics and aesthetics with a roomy yet polished design, long leather straps, and a double zip for optimal space.
Jaeger Checked Cord Collar Short Jacket: Priced at £125, this timeless jacket from the heritage British brand features a tobacco corduroy collar and metal chain, suitable for both formal and casual wear.
New Balance 530 Trainers: Starting from £100, these trainers strike a balance between cool and not try-hard, with neutral colours described as "angora, turtledove and mushroom."
Vintage Finds and Final Thoughts
Susan Caplan Vintage Elephant Brooch: At £295, this 1990s Swarovski brooch highlights the style flex of vintage accessories. For budget options, Susan Caplan offers brooches from £38, sourced from the past 80 years.
Embrace these spring essentials to update your look sustainably and stylishly. For more tips, explore how to care for your knitwear and make the most of the season's fashion trends.
