Shopping·11 min read

How to Build an In-Between-Seasons Wardrobe That’s *Just* Right

in-between-seasons
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Reformation, Abercrombie & Fitch, Everlane
March 21, 2025

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It’s officially “Not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket” season (we know you get that reference). And while we’re quite literally jumping at the chance to get outside for daily walks and al fresco brunch, we also have trouble deciding what to wear when it’s not quite warm enough to bare it all. So we’re sharing everything we’re buying for this in-between season, from jeans you’ll keep wearing through the summer to versatile light layers.

For more spring fashion, shop our fashion week guides here.

crewneck-sweater
Reformation

Our favorite cashmere crewneck sweater…

Our editors can’t get enough of this sweater. The fit is roomy enough to layer over a tee (a look we love), but isn’t too slouchy. The cashmere is soft and will keep you warm, without overheating you as temperatures rise. In our opinion, the perfect spring outfit is a light sweater and shorts. ($168, Reformation)

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rain-boots
Free People

Rain boots for spring showers…

We’re calling it now: Hunter boots are about to be back in a big way. These short wellies are more wearable than the taller version that was popular years ago, but they’re no less splash-proof. Your jeans will tuck easily into them, and the colors are fun, especially the blush pink. ($115, Free People)

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cropped-cardigan
Quince

An affordable cropped cardigan…

This cardigan hates to see you coming when you’re headed to the office. It’s slightly cropped so it’ll hit right at your waistline, has tortoise buttons, and is made of airy cotton. The definition of a light layer, you’ll want to grab a few colors to have in rotation. ($49.90, Quince)

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boxers
Comme Si

A pair of boxers you can wear outside the house…

We’re buying into the boxers-as-real-shorts trend, and you should, too. These are substantial, so you won’t feel exposed or like you’re not supposed to be wearing them to run errands or grab a coffee. They’re made of soft Italian cotton poplin and come in the prettiest colors. Grab the set of three once you fall in love with them. ($95, Comme Si)

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sandal
Loeffler Randall

A sandal to show off your fresh pedicure…

It’s time for the first pedicure of the season, if only so you can wear your new sandals. These are *chef’s kiss*, from the nude color that’ll elongate your legs to the silver ball detail. While it’s still chilly, wear them with jeans, then pair them with dresses once summer hits. ($325, Loeffler Randall)

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maxi-dress
Anthropologie

Anthropologie’s bestselling maxi dress…

From the flattering V-neck to the cinched waist, we can see why this cotton dress has so many fans. It’s comfortable, pairs well with almost any shoe, and goes from the office to an after-work happy hour with ease. The lemon print is the addition your spring dress collection needs. ($168, Anthropologie)

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trousers
Abercrombie & Fitch

A pair of trousers that are a workwear necessity…

When it’s early spring and we’re not sure what to wear to work, the answer is always: trousers. They look polished and professional, but are comfortable and pair with pretty much any top. The high-rise, straight-leg style is flattering, and we even wear them on the weekend to brunch with a cropped sweater. ($90, Abercrombie & Fitch)

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trench-jacket
Abercrombie & Fitch

A cropped trench we just added to cart…

When we imagine the perfect spring jacket, this is what comes to mind. It has the chicness of a classic trench coat, without the added bulk of the longer length. It looks great with a simple white tee underneath, and it’s water-resistant if you get caught in a shower. ($120, Abercrombie & Fitch)

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tanks
Aritzia

A tank top you’ll wear with everything…

Another can’t-miss spring outfit? A classic tank with jeans. The fit of this one is ’90s-inspired — think Rachel from Friends — and the scoop neck means you might not have to wear a bra (if you really want to go ’90s). Grab the black and white to keep all your bases covered. ($25, Aritzia)

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glove-boots
Everlane

A pair of glove boots for a sleek and sophisticated look…

Under trousers, over tights, with jeans — these are super versatile and a solid addition to your shoe closet. With just the right amount of stretch to maximize comfort, these ribbed, sock-like boots are great for anyone who has to be on their feet during the day, but still wants to feel dressed up thanks to the heel. ($150, Everlane)

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jumpsuit
Free People

A jumpsuit that’s a one-and-done outfit…

You can layer a long sleeve underneath or a jacket on top if the temperatures dip. The fit is very roomy, so you’ll have breathing space when it gets a little warmer out. For a surprising way to style it, throw on a pair of trendy boat shoes. ($128, Free People)

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trench-coat
J.Crew

A chic water-repellent trench coat for rainy days…

This is an investment piece that’s worth it. J.Crew revived their classic trench and added a hood for sudden rain showers. It comes in three classic colors, as well as both classic and petite sizing, so you can find your just-right fit and wear it forever. ($249.99+, J.Crew)

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straight-leg-pant
Everlane

A straight-leg pant in a perfect spring color…

White pants are synonymous with spring and summer, and the off-white shade of these is somehow even chicer. Made from breathable organic cotton, these are high-rise and feel like they’re already broken in. They also come in seven other colors. ($98, Everlane)

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button-up
Old Navy

A button-up that’ll add polish to any outfit…

The Risky Business look will always be in. This cotton version has a cool oversized fit. Wear it over bike shorts if you’re going for something more casual, or under a blazer if you’re heading to the office. Since it does have a very generous fit, consider sizing down. ($18.47+, Old Navy)

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ankle-socks
Aritzia

A three-pack of ankle socks we wear every day…

We don’t say this lightly, but these are the best socks we’ve ever worn. They look just as good peeking out of our New Balances with leggings as they do worn with loafers and a skirt. They’re also soft and won’t overheat your feet. ($20, Aritzia)

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exercise-dress
Old Navy

An exercise dress that’s more versatile than you think…

It’s breathable, sweat-wicking, and will look good paired with a jacket or sweater tied around your shoulders. The compression shorts underneath will keep you covered, whether you’re playing pickleball or running errands. ($23.99, Old Navy)

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baseball-cap
Anthropologie

A baseball cap to shield your face from the sun…

This cap will add an extra layer of protection on top of your SPF, while serving as a fashion statement. There’s nothing more classic than a navy Yankees cap, but we love that this one comes in fun colors like red and tan. It looks good with jeans or athleisure. ($42, Anthropologie)

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90s-jeans
Revolve

A pair of slouchy ’90s jeans we love…

These are the just-right, not-too-skinny jeans you’ve been looking for. We have these and can confidently say they’re one of our favorite pairs ever. Plus, the light wash will transition seamlessly from spring to summer. They don’t have much stretch, so if you want that effortlessly cool baggier fit, we suggest sizing up. ($228, Revolve)

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claw-clips
Amazon

A multipack of colorful claw clips…

This handy (and cheap) multipack of hair clips comes with two styles and several matte colors, ranging from neutrals to candy brights, so you can mix and match to suit your mood. We recommend keeping one of these in every bag. ($7.99, Amazon)

$7.99 at Amazon
denim-jacket
Quince

A denim jacket that will become a wardrobe staple…

When the weather gets warmer and your winter jacket feels too heavy, it’s time for a jean jacket. The medium wash is perfect, and the denim feels soft and worn-in. It’s a versatile piece you can layer over a lighter sweater or wear with your summer dresses. ($59.90, Quince)

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