Spring hasn't ~sprung~ quite yet but if you're anything like us, you're already excited to tuck away your warmest winter coats and swap in some sunnies and swimsuits. As you're waiting for the temperatures to heat up, you even might find yourself doing some pre-spring break shopping — but what should you buy? If you need a fresh dose of inspiration, we suggest browsing some spring fashion trends for 2023.
Some of the trends below are inspired by celebs, like wearing silky PJs and slips as fashion moments a la Florence Pugh and Olivia Rodrigo. Other trends are inspired by straight-off-the-runway looks, like bold polka dots and fringe detailing favored by Jean Paul Gauthier, Roberto Cavalli, and Proenza Schouler. And of course, we can't forget the fashion trends that took off thanks to viral TikTok and Instagram moments like the gothic aesthetic seen in Wednesday — Jenna Ortega's Alaïa prom dress was a cultural reset if we do say so ourselves. 💅
But as much as we love a good trend, remember that there's never (ever!) any pressure to wear things that you dislike or feel uncomfortable in. These trends below are meant to help you to figure out what vibes and styles justtttt might end up being your new faves of the season. Below, our favorite spring fashion trends of 2023.
Maxi Skirts
Mini skirts (especially micro-minis) will always have a special place in our hearts, but consider venturing into floor-skimming territory with a sleek maxi skirt. You can find these bottoms in straight, streamlined silhouettes in denim, knit, or silky varieties. Pair with platform sandals or tall boots.
JING Light Blue Slit Hem Denim Midi Skirt
Verdusa High Waist Side Split Maxi Skirt
Western Y2K
If you've exhausted the girly, Paris Hilton-inspired Y2K clothes and bling-y, mermaid-core looks, why not test out Old Western fashion with an early aughts twist? From medium-wash bootcut jeans with leather belts to Harley Davidson tanks, henley shirts, and double denim, there are plenty of laid-back styles to experiment with. Don't forget the cowboy boots.
AOSPHIRAYLIAN Retro Pointed Toe Sparkly Metallic Cowboy Boots
Free People Jolene Cotton Denim Trucker Jacket
ARIAT Basic Stitch Edged Belt, Brown
PJs as Fashion
Any trend that lets you get away with pajamas all day long is a trend that we can get behind. Celebrities have been showing major love to the slip dress recently. Case in point: Kendall Jenner's see-through gown, Florence Pugh's tulle-and-silk Rodarte ensemble, and Hailey Bieber who straight-up wore a nightie to Doja Cat's birthday party so clearly nightgowns aren't just for catching extra stylish zzz's anymore. Corset tops with romantic lace detailing can also be incorporated into your looks — balance out more delicate pieces with heavier fabrics like thick knits or 100% cotton denim.
Out From Under Modern Love Corset
Florals (Groundbreaking!)
Fans of The Devil Wears Prada know that florals do, indeed, come back around each spring — the positive vibes of a good flower print are perfect for ushering in warmer, brighter days. But if you're tired of the same ol' floral each year, there are plenty of varied options for you to play around with. Teeny-tiny ditsy flowers, vintage floral prints straight out of an art museum, and rose buds that would make your grandma proud are all trending — so take your pick for this spring.
Reformation Noha Dress
Sugarlips Magdalena Floral Ruffle Trim Milo Midi Dress
Bright Baubles
Ready to step out of your comfort zone? Mix and match your trusty gold jewelry (those are classic "forever" pieces for a reason) with bright jewels for spring. Whether that means colorful stones and vintage-inspired pieces or super bold rings, there's a piece of statement jewelry out there that'll elevate literally *every single one* of your spring lewks.
Kendra Scott Elisa Gold Pendant Necklace
Balletcore
We're talking about that "omw-to-dance-rehearsal" look that's inexplicably cool (and loved by Sydney Sweeney). Important items include leg warmers, sheer tights in black and pink, bodysuits, boleros, and ribbon detailing. Don't forget your ballet flats with the little bows on top! Leave the pointe shoes at home, though, and stick with square-toe flats to get the same look in a ballerina-approved way.
Find Me Now Paloma Bolero
Low-Waisted and Folded-Waist Jeans
Fair warning: this Bella Hadid-approved trend might have your grandma kindly informing you that you forgot to button your jeans. Whether it's rolling down the waistband of your sweats or unbuttoning and folding your high-rise jeans into an undone low-rise fit, this trend screams "relaxed cool." If you're feeling adventurous, layer them over a pair of briefs like Kylie Jenner.
Edikted Raquel Folded Jeans
ASOS Design Dad Jeans in Mid Blue
H&M 90s Baggy High Cargo Jeans
Dots for Days
Yes, polka dots are totally here to stay, so get ready to pull out the joyful print and fully embrace the dot life. You can thank lovers of the twee aesthetic (epitomized by Zooey Deschanel and the character she plays on the show New Girl, Jessica Day) for resurrecting the preppy, quirky look. Your polka dots don't have to be in-your-face, either — they can be subtle, neutral, tiny, or graphic dots that feel asymmetrical, minimal, or even futuristic.
Gothic Style
Okay, so all-black isn't your typical spring vibe, but it's definitely trending right now thanks to Jenna Ortega's portrayal of Wednesday Addams in Netflix's Wednesday. If you're wondering how to style the gothic look for (slightly) warmer weather, focus on using little details like black lace and sheer paneling to add edge to a softer outfit. Try pairing your chunky platform boots with a sundress, or wearing a black corset top over a sheer, colorful long-sleeve top.
Dr. Martens Leona Vintage Smooth Leather Heeled Boots
By Anthropologie Lace Bustier Top
Fringed Details
Swish, swish! If you love feather-trimmed mini dresses and feather boas, the fringe trend is going to be right up your alley. Soft, colorful fringe serves that breezy energy that's perfect to channel as we move into brighter spring days. Try a fringe-trimmed clutch for prom, or dive head-first into the trend with a fringe dress that has a 1920s feel to it.
Forever21 Faux Suede Fringe Trucker Jacket
Trendeology Fringed Soft PU Leather Cross Body
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
