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Tips for Styling Spring Dresses from Personal Stylists

Post by Morgan Panzenhagen   |   February 22, 2024

Get ready to revamp your spring wardrobe with expert advice! We’re about to spill tips for styling spring dresses straight from personal stylists. From mastering the art of layering to accessorizing like a pro, read on to discover how to make your spring outfits shine as bright as you.

As chilly winter days gradually fade, it’s time to embrace the freshness and vibrancy of spring fashion. Spring is the season of renewal, and there’s no better way to welcome it than by updating your wardrobe with cute spring dresses. In this blog post, we’ve rounded up tips for styling spring dresses from expert personal stylists so you know exactly what to wear for spring. Get the deets on popular spring dress styles, how to layer a dress, outerwear to pair with dresses and how to dress up for spring.

Whether you’re attending a garden party, heading to work or spending a sunny long weekend away, spring dresses bring colors, prints, feminine details and endless style to your closet.

Popular Spring Dress Styles

Spring dress styles are lighting up our feeds, and we’re about to break down the most popular ones so you can get to rocking them like a pro. From ultra-feminine to dressed down (but still stylish), there’s a spring dress length and silhouette that will feel like it was made for you.

Fit-and-Flare Dress

First up, we’ve got a universally flattering pick – the women’s fit-and-flare dress. It’s got a silhouette that hugs you in all the right places before gracefully flaring out into a twirl-worthy skirt. Try delicate florals for a romantic picnic in the park or sleek solids for a rooftop soirée! It’s the ultimate confidence booster.

An up-close image of a Wantable model wearing a mini-length fit-and-flare dress with a floral print. Example of spring dresses.
A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a mini-length fit-and-flare dress with a floral print. Example of spring dresses.

The Midi Dress

Next on our spring dress list is the midi dress — casual, versatile and oh-so-chic. Falling elegantly below the knee and above the ankle, it’s not too short, not too long, but just right. You can rock it in any color or print your heart desires, whether you’re channeling soft pastels, bold florals or classic solids. It’s like having a whole wardrobe of possibilities in one spring dress style! Brunching with your besties or hitting up an outdoor concert, a midi dress is your go-to for nailing a laid-back feminine vibe.

A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a midi-length spring dress with a floral print and a leg slit.
An up-close photo showing a Wantable model and the top of a midi dress with a V-neck and a floral print.

The Shirt Dress

Tips for styling spring dresses wouldn’t be complete without a shoutout to the shirt dress – it’s like borrowing your boyfriend’s favorite button-up but with a flirty twist. Cinch it at the waist with a belt for a figure-flattering look, or leave it loose and flowy for a carefree vibe. When you’re running errands or heading to the farmer’s market, the shirt dress is your trusty spring dress sidekick. Just throw on some sneakers or sandals and you’re ready to take on the day (or night).

An up-close photo showing a Wantable model wearing a shirt dress. It shows the dress's breast pockets and button-up front.
A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a denim shirt dress that is maxi length and features ombre detailing.

The Wrap Dress

We can’t talk about cute spring dress outfits without mentioning the wrap dress. It’s like the wardrobe BFF you never knew you needed—flattering, comfortable and oh-so-stylish. With its universally flattering V-neck silhouette and adjustable waist tie, the wrap dress is a go-to for those days when you want to look effortlessly stylish without sacrificing comfort. Wear it with heels and statement earrings for date night, or keep it casual with sneakers and a denim jacket for a weekend stroll.

An up-close photo of a Wantable model wearing a black wrap dress with a bold floral print.
A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a black wrap dress that is midi length and has a bold, colorful floral print.

The Maxi Dress

Last but not least, we have the maxi dress — the queen of laid-back glam. Thanks to its sweeping floor-length hem and airy silhouette, you’ll float through the days in style. Pair it with some statement jewelry and your favorite sandals and you’re ready to conquer the world (or at least brunch).

An up-close photo of a striped maxi dress laying across a black chair. Next to it is a tropical print maxi dress hanging from a wooden hanger.
An up-close photo of a striped maxi dress laying across a black chair.

With these spring dress styles in your rotation, you’ll be slaying the fashion game all season long. No matter which silhouette you like best, one thing’s for sure — spring has never looked so good! To bring your spring style to the next level, we’ve got tips on layering dresses so you can stay warm while you embrace your feminine side.

How to Layer a Dress

Layering dresses is like unlocking a whole new level of style possibilities, especially when it comes to navigating those transitional spring days. Whether you’re adding dimension to a silky midi dress or adding a touch of edge to a flirty mini, mastering the art of layering can take your outfit from cute to next-level chic. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks for creating the perfect layered dress outfit that’s sure to turn heads and keep you cozy all season long.

A photo of a Wantable model wearing a striped midi dress with an orange sweater draped over her shoulders.
A photo of a Wantable model smiling while turned to the side, wearing a striped dress with an orange sweater draped over her shoulders.

Layer with Tights

First up, let’s talk about wearing tights under your dress. Tights aren’t just for winter—they’re a year-round staple that can add playful personality to your spring dresses. Choose sheer or opaque tights for a seamless look that elongates your legs. Feeling daring? Statement hosiery is a trend that’s making waves this year. Colored tights, especially red tights, bring a bold, edgy element to a feminine spring dress. Don’t be afraid to mix and match — experimenting with different colored tights can bring you from classic to trendsetter with (almost) zero effort.

Layer Over Your Favorite Top

The tips for styling spring dresses don’t stop at tights – turtlenecks, long-sleeve tops and fitted tees or baby tees are on-trend options that work overtime under your favorite dresses, keeping your looks dressed down yet still ultra-chic. Pair a fitted baby tee under a silky midi dress, or go for a tee in a contrasting color or pattern to make your outfit pop. The key is to choose a tee that fits snugly to avoid any bulkiness under your dress.

If you’re craving a bit more coverage, layer with a fitted long-sleeve shirt or turtleneck. Perfect for those brisk mornings and cool evenings! Choose a breathable fabric for your underlayer to ensure you stay warm but comfortable throughout the day. Play around with different colors and textures to create a dynamic layered look – whether you opt for a classic white tee or a trendy ribbed turtleneck, you’ll be layering like a pro all spring and beyond.

Or Layer Under Your Favorite Top

Now, let’s flip the script and talk about layering tops over a dress. Say you’ve got a flirty mini dress that’s stealing hearts left and right, but you want to give it an extra dose of edge and warmth. Throw a graphic sweatshirt on over your dress for an instant style upgrade that’s equal parts trendy and cozy. Choose bold prints or witty slogans to put something special into your look – bonus points for pairing it with chunky sneakers. This layering trick adds warmth on chillier days and transforms a single dress into a versatile piece that you can use to create multiple outfits.

In essence, layering over a dress isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about adding depth, dimension and personality to your outfit. Whether you’re playing with tights, tees, turtlenecks or sweatshirts, the key is to experiment, have fun and let your creativity shine! After all, spring is all about new beginnings, so why not start with a perfectly layered look?

A photo of a Wantable model wearing a black Miller High Life sweatshirt layered over a printed ruffled mini dress. Shows styling spring dresses with a graphic sweatshirt.
A photo of a Wantable model smiling and wearing a black Miller High Life sweatshirt layered over a printed ruffled mini dress. Shows styling spring dresses with a graphic sweatshirt.

What to Wear Over a Dress – Outerwear

Spring dresses play well with all kinds of outerwear. From lightweight jackets to cozy sweaters and stylish cardigans, there are endless options for adding that extra oomph and warmth to your look. Here are some of the most popular outerwear styles to wear over a spring dress and how to style them to perfection:

The Denim Jacket

Let’s start with how to style a classic staple—the denim jacket. Cool and endlessly versatile, a denim jacket is the perfect layering piece for almost any dress in your wardrobe. Whether you’re rocking floral sundresses or sleek midis, throwing on a denim jacket keeps things laid back and comfy. Plus, it’s great for those cooler spring evenings when you need an extra layer of warmth.

An up-close photo of a light wash denim jacket laying on a deck next to a pink floral dress.
A zoomed-out photo of a light wash denim jacket laying on wooden slats next to a pink ruffled maxi dress with a floral print and a straw hat.

The Utility Jacket

Combat your style rut by layering your dress with a utility jacket. With cargo pockets and a structured silhouette, a utility jacket adds a low-key masculine element to a pretty spring dress. Pair it with a flowy maxi for stunning juxtaposition or throw it over a bodycon dress for daring street style. To add an even bigger dose of attitude to your layered dress outfit, look no further than a leather jacket. Whether it’s a classic moto style or a sleek bomber, a leather jacket instantly elevates any spring dress from basic to baddie. Try pairing it with a flirty floral dress for a tough-meets-sweet look, or throw it over a slip dress for a touch of ’90s-inspired grunge. Trust us, you’ll feel like a total rockstar.

The Classic Trench or Blazer

When extra polished is the vibe, grab a trench coat. Timeless and eye-catching, a trench coat adds instant texture and professionalism to simple dresses. Belt it at the waist for a cinched silhouette or leave it open for a more relaxed vibe. A blazer kicks all your spring dresses up a notch, too. Pair one with a classic LBD for a zero-stress date night outfit or throw it over a floral maxi for a modern and oh-so-charming combo.

A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a white and purple bodycon midi dress with a white blazer draped over her shoulders.
A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a white and purple bodycon midi dress with a white blazer draped over her shoulders. Her arms are crossed.

The Cozy Sweater or Cardigan

Finally, if comfort is the name of your style game, sweaters and cardigans work well with spring dresses to add texture and so-soft warmth. Whether it’s a chunky knit or lightweight and breezy, cardigans pair nicely with midi dresses for instant boho style! You can’t go wrong with a pullover sweater layered over a fit-and-flare mini dress – just add your favorite sneakers for an off-duty look.

When deciding what to wear with a dress, don’t be afraid to experiment with different outerwear styles and silhouettes. Whether you’re opting for a classic denim jacket, a sleek leather moto or a bright blazer, your spring dress game is about to get so good.

A photo of a pastel-colored silky dress lying on a white background next to a folded yellow cardigan.
A photo of a pastel-colored silky dress lying on a white background next to a folded yellow cardigan.

How to Dress Up for Spring

Along with flowers and sunshine, spring brings a host of celebrations and events like weddings, graduation, Mother’s Day, garden parties and more. Spring events offer the perfect opportunity for you to showcase your style and let your outfits reflect the spirit of the season. Dressing up for spring is all about embracing this vibrant energy!

A full-body photo of a Wantable model wearing a paisley print midi dress, a tee that says "EXTRA SPICY" and a pair of sunglasses. She is holding a cocktail and smiling.
A photo of a Wantable model smiling while wearing a printed midi dress and a t-shirt that says "EXTRA SPICY." She is holding a cucumber cocktail.

Find Your Perfect Fit

Before you can get to experimenting with other tips for styling spring dresses, finding the right one is the first step. Opt for fits that strike the perfect balance between professionalism and style, such as a tailored sheath dress or a sleek wrap dress. Look for classic silhouettes in sophisticated prints or muted tones that play well with outerwear and accessories.

Mix Colors, Textures and Prints

Mix and match textures, colors and prints for a playful yet polished look. A pastel dress or layering piece is a stunning way to incorporate seasonal colors and light, bright florals keep you feeling and looking fresh while you hustle through the workweek or celebrate big. Breathable fabrics like linen, rayon, chambray and cotton are perfect choices for spring dresses and layering pieces since they stay cool and composed long after you throw them on. 

Don’t Forget Shoes and Accessories

Lastly, bring your ensemble to life with accessories that reflect the season’s colors and details. Think vibrant beaded necklaces, bold enamel earrings or chunky bracelets that pop against the soft hues of your dress. Eye-catching accessories are guaranteed to infuse your look with energy and personality.

A flat-lay photo showing an example of styling spring dresses. It is a white maxi dress with a floral print next to a medium-wash denim jacket, a pink handbag and a pair of beaded earrings.
An up-close flat-lay photo showing a pink handbag next to a section of a white dress that has pink and yellow flowers printed on it. Shows an accessory to pair with spring dresses.

A lightweight scarf or shawl can keep you warm and accessorized, too. Choose a scarf in a bright color or floral pattern to add dimension to your look. Draping it over your shoulders or tying it around your waist can add a flattering shape and visual interest to a simpler spring dress.

There are so many spring footwear options that are both stylish and comfortable for all day. Classic flats, espadrilles or block-heeled sandals are perfect choices to pair with your spring dresses since they feel feminine but keep your feet comfy while you eat, drink and dance the night away. If your dress is neutral or solid, bold shoes are a subtle yet polished way to add a pop of print or color and pull your spring dress looks together.  

Don’t forget to complete your outfit with the perfect handbag! A structured tote or crossbody bag will keep your essentials organized while adding a polished finish to your ensemble. Bags are one of the trendiest ways to add spring colors to outfits, so play around with bold, vibrant hues and soft pastels. Alternatively, a woven straw bag or floral clutch can add a touch of whimsy and texture to your outfit, perfect for those outdoor spring gatherings.

A flat-lay photo showing a bodycon midi dress in pastel colors layered under a white linen long-sleeve shirt. There is also a straw bag and a pair of black sunglasses. Shows how to style spring dresses.
An up-close photo showing the intricate detail on a woven crossbody bag. Shows how to style spring dresses with a textured bag.

Experiment with different combinations of jewelry, scarves, shoes and handbags to create a look that’s uniquely yours and celebrates the beauty of spring. Whether you’re attending a garden party or simply enjoying a sunny day out, let your accessories be the final flourish that brings your spring dress styles to life.

In Conclusion: Dress for Success

Now that you’re armed with tips for styling spring dresses from personal stylists, it’s time to hit the spring scene and let your favorite dresses shine. You’re ready to tackle the season’s to-dos with a fresh burst of style and confidence.

From the classic fit-and-flare to the laid-back midi, you’ve got the lowdown on the hottest spring dress styles that’ll have you turning heads wherever you go. And let’s not forget the power of layering—because who said you can’t rock your favorite dresses all year round? You’ll be accessorizing like a pro with statement jewelry, lightweight scarves, shoes and the perfect handbag.

Whether you’re brunching with friends, hitting up a rooftop party or just soaking up some sunshine, your outfit will be on point and ready for any occasion. Here’s to embracing the season with open arms and gorgeous dresses!

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