Monday, 9 March 2026

Barrel jeans, elegant shawls and more transitional pieces to ease into spring

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Bomber Jackets, Under-$10 Basics and More Transitional Pieces to Step Into Spring in Style

Anrabess Rib-Knit Basic Tee →

An expert once told us that the trick to transitional dressing is "to plan your base layers and build onto your outfit from there." This rib-knit tee (a No. 1 bestseller on Amazon) is a great basic to start with. Reviewers commend its fitted design and soft material, plus the long sleeves offer extra coverage you might want on early spring days.

Amazon Essentials Jean Jacket →

Feel free to pack away the puffers and heavy parkas; springtime's official coat, the jean jacket, will take it from here. The denim essential is a staple this time of year, typically chosen for throwing on over dresses, T-shirts or even lightweight sweaters on particularly chilly days.

Halara Flex DayStretch Flare Pants →

"It was love at first ... wear," raves associate editor Shannon Garlin about these viral Halara pants. She insists that the pant's buttery-soft material has a coziness equivalent to your favorite pajama bottoms. Yet, they still look chic enough to wear to the office, where Garlin says she's constantly showered with compliments whenever she wears them.

Puli Shawl Wrap →

A shawl might be one of the most underrated pieces in a spring wardrobe. It's the garment you didn't know you needed — until it becomes your go-to wrap to pair with wedding guest dresses or as a chic cover-up in chilly office spaces or as a better replacement for a throw blanket during evenings spent outside. Plus, it's so easy to dress up or down!

Old Navy High-Waisted Barrel Ankle Jeans →

The barrel jean trend isn't going anywhere; in fact, with retailers coming out with so many versions of the style, it will probably become a summer sleeper hit. We found an affordable way to try it out, with this high-waisted Old Navy pair. It comes in a variety of washes, three fits and a size range of 00 to 30.

Kizik Women's Siena →

A new season is a great excuse for a sneaker upgrade. Associate editor Kamari Stewart-Jackson was a little nervous to try the slim silhouette of this Kizik shoe but was pleasantly surprised with how good it looked as well as how comfortable it felt. "They've quickly become my go-to shoe when I'm running out the door and know that I have a busy day because they look sleek and stylish, but I can still do everything I need to do comfortably," she says.

Naadam Lightweight Cashmere Short Sleeve Sweater →

Deputy managing editor Jess Bender reports that she's found several ways to style this lightweight piece, "from rocking it under an oversized blazer or cardigan to wearing it on its own with a chain necklace to bring the whole look together." It features the softness of your favorite winter material but also a short sleeve to help you gently transition into a new season.

Universal Thread Cropped Bomber Jacket →

According to fashion stylist Lindsey Bernay, a bomber jacket is a piece to consider when you want any outfit "to look complete." This unique take on the style features a high neck collar, slightly puffed shoulders and rolled cuffs to create the illusion of a balloon sleeve. We love how it crops at the waist and creates a silhouette that helps to give the wearer a beautiful shape.

Universal Thread Essential Belt Crossbody Bag →

With sunnier days ahead, we're prepping for more outdoor adventures — or just any excuse to get out of the house. A belt bag is the perfect throw-on-and-go accessory to grab when you just need the essentials (phone, keys, credit card, etc.) before running out the door. We love this option because it offers plenty of storage space, has an adjustable strap and comes in multiple colors.

Old Navy Fit & Flare Linen-Blend Midi Dress →

Who says you can't rock a daytime LBD in spring? This midi number is all things chic and cozy, from its seamed bodice down to its loose skirt and linen-blend material. And since it's not summer yet, you can easily pair this with a denim jacket or oversized cardigan to keep the late-winter breeze at bay.