Everyone in Copenhagen and Paris Is Wearing These Cute Spring Outfits

All I do is think about clothes—and it's literally my job. I keep one eye on the internet and TikTok fashion discourse, the next Substack voice to subscribe to, and the other on the season's current and upcoming runways. And yet here I am struggling with style burnout. I want to wear cute spring fashion and tick off this season’s trends, but I can’t engineer an idea beyond basic blue jeans and whatever button-down, trench coat, or shacket is in reach.

So, I’m doing what I always do when I’m stuck in a style rut: taking pointers from women worldwide whose style inspired me. I’ve found that Parisiennes have a knack for seamlessly transitioning their winter pieces into spring with a thoughtful pop of pastel amongst their year-round Breton stripes. Meanwhile, the street style trends from Milan Fashion Week highlight the staying power of a timeless silhouette, with the mindset that a well-made blazer always works, no matter what hyper-niche aesthetic is gaining traction online. As usual, Copenhagen—the hub of eclectic Scandi style—has also given me much to consider, like the chic potential of a theoretically ugly color combination and even clashing floral prints.

If you, like me, are still struggling to find that renewed sense of creativity, my spring outfit round-up is here for you to borrow. Keep scrolling to discover 14 outfits that will break the seasonal stalemate with your closet.

Uncomplicated Florals

Unlike predictable shocking pinks or sky blues, a natural-toned floral print offers a more minimal and unexpected interpretation. The Marimekko button-down shirt below closely matches this Copenhagen Fashion Week guest's breezy ensemble in black and tan.

Barn Jackets Forever

Take it from this Paris Fashion Week street styler: last fall's barn jackets continue to be the outerwear trend that keeps on giving. Look for one with leather accents or pops of plaid for a refreshing change from the rugged Carhartt option you purchased last October.

Preppy With a Twist

You already have your best blazers—those uncomplicated, most likely black or white professional jackets that don't ruffle feathers in the office. But one detailed with exciting embroidery or a crystal decal or two is a simple way to energize preppy style with some personal flair.

Simplistic Blooms

Another clever twist on floral prints that is less conventional than a traditional bouquet of red rosettes: a single, simple bud. It's a classic case of less is more, as the solitary flower still signals spring in a more understated—and thus refreshing—way.

Tie It All Together

Don't underestimate the one-and-done magic of a high-quality designer belt. At New York Fashion Week, this attendee used a Bottega Veneta wrap belt to elevate an ivory denim skirt and asymmetrical black top. Pair it with your white skirt outfits and marvel at how a simple leather cord can transform an ordinary look into something spectacular.

A Maligned Color Combo

I am a fervent defender of pink and red—just like this New York Fashion Week guest adorned in an oh-so-sweet Sandy Liang look. In my opinion, this color combination is successful because it's controversial. There's nothing like a little outrage to make an outfit feel even more special.

Summer Manifesting

We haven't yet reached sunny weather in NYC (I woke up today to a "feels like 42 degrees" warning on my weather app). But once we do, I'm breaking out my wrap-around sandals and styling them with a summery maxi skirt and a breezy linen blouse.

No-Thoughts, Head-Empty Neutrals

I love color—several times, I've been told my closet looks like a crayon box. But on mornings when I don't have the capacity to follow color theory, I will be following this Scandi street style star's lead and rely on the simple shade of sand. It's minimal, yes, but that's actually what makes it stand out.

Track and Field

I have not shied away from expressing my love for track pants. This NYFW guest's cherry red Adidas zip-up serves as a reminder not to overlook the top half of the sporty look. But, instead of opting for the matching bottoms, consider a maxi in white cotton poplin for a girly-girl-meets-track-star combination.

Strategic Sheers

Once more, we haven't yet reached the summer lovin' phase of the calendar. But a sheer bottom strategically paired with a longer tunic captures the dopamine rush that warmer weather brings, while still being suitable for springtime.

Spring Shorts

For the uninitiated, fashion girls have taken Bermuda shorts from middle-aged dads on vacation. Now, the long-line bottoms are stylish, especially when paired with leather knee-high boots to combat breezy weather and highlight the leading spring shoe trend.

Pop of Pink

Here is a classic example of how the right color pop—baby pink, in this case—adds complexity to an otherwise neutral look. Bonus points if you also incorporate tactile textures like suede or a woven knit for added visual intrigue.

Ugly Shoe Magic

At Marie Claire, we embody the philosophy that a controversial shoe trend can enhance a look (others refer to this as the 'wrong shoe theory'). Notice how this NYFW attendee's Maison Margiela split-toe Tabi flats, perfectly complemented by split-hem pants, add a quirky touch to tie together her masterfully layered outfit?