I will always love the ‘transitional’ seasons of spring and autumn more than than their more extreme neighbours when it comes to fashion. Without having to worry whether you will freeze without a jacket or roast in a simple slip there is the chance to have so much more fun with your wardrobe. You can pair different items together more easily and combine some of your favourite pieces from your winter and summer wardrobe to create entirely new looks. The newest trends are also released around this time and for me that serves as the perfect inspiration for the next few months.

Whilst I don’t tend to let every trend influence my wardrobe too much I do like to see them as fresh inspiration and I’ll cherry pick the ones that I think will either suit me the most or that I’m likely to wear in the future. I find this way I don’t impulse buy very much and instead I just add a few key pieces that will help to refresh things without spending too much or indulging in consumerism.

We’re more or less halfway through the spring so I’ve started to nail down exactly what those key pieces are in my wardrobe this season, which trends I’m going to incorporate and what some of my favourite pieces will likely still be come the summer. Given that the seasons are never too extreme in the UK I can be fairly confident that these items will see me through until the autumn, although I wouldn’t mind one or two warm days at some point.

White shirts, with a twist: White shirts and blouses are always big at this time of year, they’re spring’s equivilent to the cosy jumper. This year the blouses I’m seeing are keeping to classic styles but then adding in little details that make them a bit different to your standard white shirt. The giant puff-sleeves on this H&M white shirt are a perfect example of this. Paired with a slightly more exaggerated collar this shirt makes a real statement but the neutral white tone means it isn’t too in your face and you can still incorproate it easily into the rest of your wardrobe. Other details I’ve been loving are tie-sides, big buttons and ruffle sleeves.

Denim, updated: Denim is always a staple in any wardrobe but this is another type of item that I like to re-imagine slightly. Everyone needs a good pair of regular blue wash jeans (in my opinion) but denim can also be so much more than a basic that you just throw on. Denim skirts are great for this time of year as they’re still relativly warm, especially if you pick a midi length. Go for a raw hem on any denim and it instantly gives it a more contemporary look whilst different cuts like wide legs jeans or culottes also help to give a slightly more interesting twist to ‘jeans and a nice top’.

Accessorise: This is the perfect time of year to start accessorising. You don’t have to be putting pure practicalility first like in the depths of winter but you also don’t feel like avoiding anything that will increase your body temprature in the slightest like the height of summer. Accessories are part of such a broad category that they can literally be whatever you want. I like to go for a bag that will go with whatever I throw on and also update my shoes. Low block heels are always my go to, I can walk all day in them whilst still feeling elegant and finishing off my outfit. Heeled wedges are also a great option if you aren’t the best at walking in heels. Whilst the hair clip trend isn’t really for me, I do like to mix up my earrings and other jewellery. Whether they’re more trend-led gold hoops or my gorgeous Astrid & Miyu cuff I find earrings a quick and easy way to refresh a look in a matter of seconds.

Now we don’t have to worry quite so much about layering up thermals and sneaking our knee-high socks underneath or jeans every day (although it is a game-changer if you’re constantly cold like I am) it’s exciting to start thinking ahead to the next season. Spring and summer style is something I’ve always struggled a little more with but I feel like this year I’m finally starting to find my style a little more and these three things are certainly helping with that.

Shot on Huawei P20 Pro by Helena Bradbury