Spring has officially sprung, and while the warmer weather might not be nationwide just yet, you can still get a head start on switching out your seasonal fashions. As the season gears up, we’ll be trading in our heavy coats, chunky sweaters and boots for flouncy spring dresses, lightweight blazers and sandals. But revamping your closet doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Luckily, if you’re in the market for spring’s biggest trends at budget-friendly prices, Nordstrom has you covered.
With thousands of incredible items to choose from, finding the season’s must-have items can be time-consuming, so we caught up with Nordstrom stylists to get some advice on what trends and styles to look for.
It’s likely your closet is already stocked with a mix of staple pieces that get regular wear and things that your style has outgrown or you just feel okay about. When you’re thinking about refreshing your wardrobe or investing in some updated pieces, Seattle-based Nordstrom stylist Helen Marion-Rowe says to purchase items that you absolutely love. “Moving forward, let’s hold out for what you will be excited to reach for,” Marion-Rowe says. “This often looks like going with a playful twist on a basic. Choose the tee that has a touch of sparkle or go for a chunky crochet style over a thinner knit.”
When it comes to actually styling together your spring separates, don’t panic. Linda Cui Zhang, associate fashion director at Nordstrom offers some surefire pairings you can reach for. “I find myself returning to three fuss-free outfit combinations every spring: a shirt and skirt, knit tee and jeans, and a one-and-done dress,” Cui Zhang says. “These outfits are anchored by lightweight knits, bold accessories and streamlined shoes so I usually look to re-up on these items to refresh my spring outfits.”
With all this in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the trendiest $150-and-under women’s clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories that we could find from Nordstrom that are sure to take you through the season in major style without breaking the bank.
Marion-Rowe says if you want truly endless styling potential, look no further than this breezy cotton set from Free People: “For a playful twist on tailored workwear, wear it as the complete set and layer a long-sleeve top underneath.”
And on the weekends, you break it up into separates. “Style the top with a sparkly miniskirt for a concert look, or style the pants with a classic striped tee for a chic, elevated casual look,”?Marion-Rowe says.
For something more festive than a classic white button-down, go for this cabana striped shirt from Nordstrom’s line, which is available in Olive Burnt, Rust and Blue Marmara.
For a more jazzy version of a basic tank, Marion-Rowe recommends this sparkly Mango tank to liven up your look. “Whether my customer goes with the black or the gray, we can style it with either olive or ecru pants and a denim jacket for an easy errands look that’s just a little special in case you meet someone you know,” Marion-Rowe says.
Hats are a great warm-weather accessory for keeping your head protected (or hiding a less than stellar hair day). But they can also add casually styled flair to something dressier like a lightweight blazer or button-down shirt.
Marion-Rowe says there are so many features to love about this Nordstrom sandal: “The beautiful simplicity giving it endless styling potential, the walkable block heel and platform, the comfortable insole and all for under $100.” Marion-Rowe recommends dressing it up for brunch with “a slip skirt and silky cami” or style it for casual errands by pairing them with “jean shorts, a graphic tee and a lightweight crochet cardigan.”
Part of Cui Zhang’s skirt-and-shirt combo model, this COS skirt has a straight, streamlined silhouette, which makes the perfect pair for a blousy button-down or looser fitting tee or tank, plus some glistening jewels too.
Some pieces are staples for a reason; they can easily be paired with a number of outfits to keep you looking your best. “Some of the spring staples I recommend to my customers are a denim jacket, crisp white sneaker, sunglasses with some personality and something that’ll take you from desk to dinner,” Marion-Rowe says. If you don’t have a pair in your closet already, grab a pair of these top-rated Vionic sneakers for your spring wear.
A style that’s always on-trend for spring? Florals. “I like to reassure my customers that there’s a floral for everyone,” Marion-Rowe says. “Whether realistic, bold abstract, a sprinkling of mini bouquets or dramatic and edgy on black, we can find a floral print that is true to you.” This Vero Moda shirt is a not-so-obvious way to do florals. Match it with other neutrals or try mixing it with bold-colored bottoms and accessories.
If you've already got a reliable pair of sandals and sneakers lined up for your more casual spring looks, try styling a pair of these Minnetonka driving shoes. Made of leather with a rubber sole, these are shoes are a nice blend of polished and casual that’s perfect for springtime wear.
One of the toughest parts about dressing for spring is the ever-changing weather. But Marion-Rowe says their secret weapon tip is to imagine how you can restyle outer layers if you end up shedding them. “For example, a striped cardigan can be restyled so many ways throughout the day,” Marion-Rowe says. “You can peel it off and drape it over your shoulders, wear it slouched back a bit so your shoulders are bare or even just plan to stash it away in your tote bag.”?
Denim skirts has been fashionable for decades at this point, and for good reason; they’re a great layering piece, work across seasons and can work for a variety of events. This Reformation skirt has a slightly higher cut to show off more leg, with the intent that you can easily wear it for day or night looks. This classic dark-blue wash will look great with a crisp white shirt or a bright, chunky sweater and tights on chilly spring mornings.
Sunglasses are a must for spring and summer, not only for protecting your eyes but for adding the finishing touch to any outfit. These Ray-Ban frames have a rounded, retro design that keeps them modern without committing too much to one style or vibe, which makes them a top contender to be your new go-to pair of sunnies.
Great shoes for bridging the season transitional at the office or special events, these elegant, pointed-toe Sam Edelman pumps come in 12 colors and finishes for whatever best matches your spring wardrobe.
This satin skirt by Madewell comes in yellow, blue, gray and black, so whether you’re looking for a elevated basic or a skirt to add some personality to your favorite plain tees, this draped skirt is just what you need.
Marion-Rowe says this midi dress by Nordstrom Made brand Caslon is making its way into just about every fitting room they put together. “The cut is universally flattering on every figure, it comes in an extended range of sizes and the sporty stripes are perfectly on-trend,” Marion-Rowe explains. “It’s the piece you need for an upcoming spring vacation especially once paired with a raffia bag, espadrille sandals and an oversized packable hat.”
If the currently trendy ultra-baggy, low-rise jeans aren’t your style, you can still nail the relaxed denim look with the help of these ’90s inspired jeans from Levi’s.
A basic white tee is a versatile staple in any wardrobe, and spring is a great time to make sure your go-to tee is in good shape. If your white tees are looking dingy and worn, consider getting a new one, like this body-hugging Skims T-shirt, which also comes in black, blue, gray and off-white.
Texture plays are always on-trend for spring. “We see techniques like woven raffia, crochet cottons, knotted jersey and quilted denims show up in spring collections year after year, and this season’s iterations feel extra special,” Cui Zhang says. “The techniques are applied across pieces from head-to-toe, from raffia handbags and shoes, to crochet skirts and tops, to quilted jackets and bags.” Like, for instance, this woven tote bag from Claire V., which comes in black and natural color options.
Sambas have been having a real moment as of late, so odds are this isn’t the first time you’re seeing them. Top-rated and available at Nordstrom in eight color combinations, these sneakers are beloved for not only giving some casual street style to your look but being comfortable all day long.
More exciting than just simple studs, these shell-shaped Lili Claspe earrings might be just the accessory you need for your next coastal getaway, or at least coastal getaway-inspired outfit.
These wide-leg jeans will help you nail that effortless, relaxed look. Style them with a light sweater, sandals and a bold earring for a more elevated look or go more casual with a sneaker and tee or denim-on-denim combo.
If you’re still struggling to find ways to update your wardrobe for spring, grab your favorite basics and start playing with small accessories. “A great pair of shoes and a bold accessory go a long way,” Cui Zhang says. Grab these slingbacks in bright orange, azul and metallic shades, or opt for a more neutral black.
Spring doesn’t mean it’s time to ditch the sweaters just yet. Instead of bulky layers, you can start rocking more lightweight options like this wool and cashmere sweater that can fit under your favorite denim jacket or over a tank or tee.
“Accessories like a bold earring or a pendant necklace bring light to the look,” Cui Zhang says. This pearl pendant necklace is perfect for layering with your other gold pieces, amping up a basic jeans-and-tee look or adding to your favorite flowing dress.
Known for their line of denim, Madewell is the place to shop if you want tons of styles and fits for everyday wear. These white high-waist jeans will help brighten up your outfit and maybe inspire you to break the monotone of black outfits you’ve been sporting during winter.
What are stylists looking to snag for this spring season? “A high-utility piece like a cropped jacket tops my shopping list and is an item I look forward to investing in this season,” Cui Zhang says. Great for day-to-day casual looks, this Madewell jacket also has large cargo pockets for storing all your on-the-go essentials.
If you have outfit or styling fatigue, reach for a simple dress. “The one-and-done dress exudes springtime ease,” Cui Zhang says. Add a sweater or jacket for a top layer, some earrings, a trusty bag and some sneakers, sandals or slides and you’re good to go.
In search of that ideal, take-everywhere bag that just goes with everything? Look no further than this leather crossbody sling. From weekend errands to spring holidays to daily commutes, this bag will keep all your essentials secure and your hands free.
The end of winter means leaving behind heavy coats, outerwear and scarves that help us round out our outfits. “In spring dressing, I’m opting for light cropped jackets and layering knits (like tanks over tees!) and minidresses over breezy pants to outfit build,” Cui Zhang says. This linen Reformation dress works as a layering piece for your spring wardrobe and as a standalone outfit for your summer one too.
A straw hat reads as total vacation vibes, but this one will also look stylish during springtime picnics in the park or evening walks at dusk.
“This cropped top with the delicately embroidered scalloped edges perfectly walks the line of playful and breezy yet polished and put together,” Marion-Rowe says. “The natural linen colorway with pops of green is a delightful opportunity to coordinate with shoes or accessories.” For a boho-inspired farmer’s market look, Marion-Rowe recommends styling this top with some wide-leg jeans, green slide sandals and, of course, some matching sunglasses.
Available in gold and silver, these simple hoops are a timeless piece that work in any season and will instantly make your look feel more polished.
Easy off and easy on, these Birkenstock clogs will help you nail the effortless spring look. You can grab them in women’s shoe styles and men’s too so your whole crew can be cohesive.
If you prefer bracelets over necklaces and earrings, or just love to be doused head-to-toe in bling, grab this cuff, which works by itself or as part of a stack.
A pair of cute flats are a great option for when you don’t want heels but want something a little more feminine than sneakers. These Mary Jane-style flats come in black or white and can be styled with some fun textured or printed socks if it’s not quite open-toed season yet.
