Natasha Crowley

It’s finally happened - spring has sprung!

Yes, it’s true that one day it's quite warm while the next day could see a couple of downpours but by and large I am feeling ever more confident about shedding some extra layers.

Farewell puffer coats and thick heavy boots and hello light trenchcoats and dare I say it, a shoe worn without a sock. That might be slightly getting ahead of myself but hey a girl can dream.

Now one look that always feels like spring is a cardigan and jeans situation.

I actually bought myself a new pair of jeans the other day, a high waist straight leg pair with a rip in the knee.

For some unknown reason, I found myself incredibly attracted to a distressed pair even though I fear my knee will break free of the strategically placed rip and cause it to fray even further.

I’ve just obviously lost the run of myself during lockdown with my penchant for knee rips. Cardigan wise, I have recently invested in a pink full-length Hayley Menzies and while it is definitely a bit more than I would normally spend, I’ve already worn it loads.

I’ve worn it over simple jeans and sweatshirts and I’ve also worn it over a hoodie and joggers and come the summer, I’d pair it with a t-shirt and cut-off jeans.

I’ve also been much more inclined since lockdown to save my money and buy myself more investment pieces rather than just buying random bits.

One or two new investment pieces have actually breathed new life into my wardrobe and I’ve started wearing older pieces that I had forgotten about. Such is the joy of the new season when you can pull out all of last season’s items and see what you have. It’s like a shopping spree in your own wardrobe.

If you do fancy a new cardie to freshen up your look and don’t fancy paying a fortune then & Other Stories is the place for you. It’s my go to for knitwear and floral blouses this season.

I’ve also been tempted to get a bit dressier, and you can also use your cardigan to create that perfect balance of smart and casual. I’ve been wearing my more cropped or waist length cardigans and pairing them with midi slip skirts and my knee-high boots.

While the slip skirt is light, wearing it with the boots and a knit will ensure you keep warm on those chillier days. Just pop a trenchcoat over the top and you are good to go.

Now is the time to keep an eye out for trenchcoats. I bought an oversized one about four years ago in H&M for €20 and I have worn it so much that the cost per wear is probably about zero!

There’s still a lot more seasons left in it and I like to switch up the vibe of it with some brooches that were gifts from my mam. If you are looking for a new trench, I’ve seen a particularly lovely one in River Island at the moment that is such a classic you could wear it forever.

Lastly, I will be mostly rocking a boiler suit for the next few months as it’s the perfect piece for spring and it can be layered up or down depending on the weather and if you want to dress it up or down. Hopefully, we will be doing the former ASAP!