Here’s what I’d be buying from the pre-spring collections if I wasn’t so pregnant. I’ve accepted that 30 weeks pregnant is not the best time to go shopping for a spring wardrobe, but I can still dream. Right? Right?
It’s hard to know where my body will be at post-baby. At the moment, I’m always half thinking ‘could I breastfeed in that?’ or ‘ I don’t want to spend that much on a dress when I’ll be going nowhere.’
But, just because I can’t perfect my capsule wardrobe, doesn’t mean you can’t. So, please do me a favour and buy some of these wonderful pieces so at least I can see somebody wearing them.
Let’s go.
Everlane
Everlane’s new in section is a collage of everything I love about minimalist fashion. The half-zip sweater is back for SS23. First made famous in the UK by high-street store, Arket, this sweater has been popular for the past two years with no sign of disappearing.
But, the real stars of Everlane’s show are the The Tencel Way-High® Taper Pant. These are the ultimate French chic trousers and the khaki/black combo (below) are giving me major Betty Draper vibes.
Something I can actually buy, though, are The Rain Boots. Available in six colours, my favourites being Golden Oak, Surplus and Stone, these are the type of boots that will see you through year after year. A chicer welly, if you will.
My favourites from Everlane:
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H&M
H&M’s new in range is a real mix. On one hand, you’ve got the ‘I only wear Adanola’ style, with the oversized sweatshirts and leggings. On the other hand, you’ve got the ‘I just got back from the Californian desert’ look with fringed hems and baggy sleeves. It certainly gives Free People a run for its money.
My top picks veer away from both of those styles and into a more timeless style. Having a capsule wardrobe means I only go for a trend if I’m obsessed with it (hello, vests).
My winner, though, is this oversized hole-knit jumper. I *think* it’s available in H&M’s maternity line, as well.
My favourites from H&M:
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Zara
There’s only one thing I truly wish for from Zara at the moment. I’ve gone back and forth on whether to invest in a pair of the CLARKS x ZARA leather ankle boots. Clarks’ collaborations are so good right now, and I arrived late to the CLARKS ORIGINALS X SALEHE BEMBURY collaboration and never managed to get my hands on a pair.
I think the reality is that I preferred the Salehe Bembury lugger boots, but the Zara ones are great, too.
Cos
Cos’ pre-spring collection is – unsurprisingly – perfect. Like Everlane, Cos’ transition from winter to spring is all about the timeless, minimalist look.
I’ve been looking for a pair of wide-leg jeans for some time, and since Cos is the home of my favourite pair of culottes, I think the jeans will be equally as fantastic. Available in cream or a very light-wash denim, I think I’d go for the cream, but I’m still looking for something a little darker.
Next up is this leather cross-body bag. Entire articles have been written about this viral bag. It was out of stock for ages after every influencer worth their Cos commission jumped on it. Personally, I still love it.
And finally, this cropped wool cardigan is a bit of me. Mums; if you want to look more fashionable at soft play (ha), then invest in something structured like this cardigan. It’s available in both grey and black and will elevate any jean and trainer combo.
My favourites from Cos:
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Matches Fashion
Last but not least, I had to mention Matches. Matches is one of my go-to places when I’m really in the mood to buy something that’ll last – or do a bit of window shopping.
I usually refrain, but I’ve had to save a couple of items onto my notes app for post-pregnancy because I love them so much.
Alémais pre-spring collection is glorious and the Winnie floral-print linen dress is too much. I need it. Need. I think I’m going to buy it for myself as a push present.
I’m also completely in love with Le Monde Beryl’s Mary Jane ballet flats. I shared how to wear ballet flats in 2023 in my latest TikTok video, my ballet flats are from Zara but if you’ve got a little more to spend, you can’t go wrong with these.
And finally, on the subject of shoes, these Hereu Pesca cutout leather sandals are so elegant. I love the way they’ve been matched with the Palmer/Harding shirt dress, too. Such a great spring holiday look.
Hi, I’m Caroline Allen - I’m a lifestyle journalist and author writing about everything from interiors to parenting, from mental health to travelling. I’ve written for The Guardian, Mail On Sunday, Stylist and Yahoo among others. I hope you find my little place on the internet as enjoyable as I do.
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