The Spring Capsule Edit (#023)
While Sydney is settling into autumn (hello cosy knits!), the northern hemisphere is shaking off the last of winter and stepping into spring. And we all know that the transitional seasons are arguably the most versatile for dressing. Where we can mix up the seasonal ingredients - so to speak - for a melting pot of texturally rich, and uniquely layered looks.
Rather than waiting until May to drop this spring capsule, I thought it might be more useful to serve up some northern hemisphere looks now. Next month, I’m planning a work-to-weekend for those of you keen to get more bang for your buck out of your workwear essentials.
For April, we’re going to lean into that transition: a mix of breathable fabrics, relaxed silhouettes, and effortless pieces that work across shifting temperatures. I’ve played around with this idea of fluidity, using textural contrast and layering to create visual interest.
If you happened to miss my last capsule - the autumn edit - and wanted to read through that instead, you’ll find it HERE. Structured around the same principles of versatility and ease, but with a focus on warmth and layering.
Now, onto the ten pieces that make up this spring wardrobe...
4x tops (in a mix of sleeve lengths & textures)
1x knit (a crew, a cardigan, or v-neck etc)
3x bottoms (a trouser, a full length skirt & a fun pant)
1x dress (in a maxi length)
1x shoes (something polished with a low heel)
At the bottom of this letter, you’ll find style notes for this capsule and accessories details (including the bag!).
One last word before we get into the capsule… If you have enjoyed receiving my letters and want to support my work, you might like to consider upgrading to paid to get access to the full archive plus all addendums; the monthly plan works out to $1.25 per week (less than the price of a coffee!). If you’re just here for the monthly capsules, they will always be accessible for all subscribers. You can review your subscription options via the button below.
the ten items
Textured short sleeve top | Something with an interesting tactile quality, which could be in a simplistic, or maximalist silhouette. The texture adds a point of interest without requiring additional styling effort, whether it’s a lightweight knit, seersucker, or a woven fabric with a bit of dimension. Pictured: DISSH
Alternatives: Kowtow | Marks & Spencer | J.Crew
Sleeveless top | Fitted or loose. Textured or smooth. A foundational piece that shifts seamlessly between layers. Worn solo on warmer days or styled under a knit on days where the temperature drops. A ribbed tank can lean more casual, while a silk camisole introduces a refined contrast to structured separates. Pictured: 525 America (code Jamie25 for 25% off)
Alternatives: Everlane | Grana | Reformation
A versatile long-sleeve top | Think of this as a workhorse in your wardrobe. It could be a classic shirt, a fitted ribbed knit, or even a top with draped or ruched details that add a little something extra. The idea here is adaptability; something you can tuck into tailored trousers for polish, or layer under a vest for added depth. Pictured: Co.
Alternatives: UNIQLO | COS (25% off with COSFRIEND) | Tuckernuck | Arket
A relaxed tee | A casual, effortless piece to ground this capsule. A monochrome option will feel streamlined, while a vintage-inspired graphic tee can add a subtle punch of personality. Pictured: OZMA
Alternatives: UNIQLO | Madewell | Free People
Chic maxi-length dress | Long hemlines have an ability to convey a sense of formality and refinement. The key is choosing a silhouette that you can dial up or dial down with simple styling; a sleek slip or a longer column dress both being perfect candidates. Pictured: Faithfull the Brand
Alternatives: Reformation | Toteme | H&M | Arket
Relaxed knit sweater or cardigan | Something that will function both in the place of outerwear or as an easy transitional piece. A cardigan with an open drape leans more effortless, while a crewneck knit with an oversized fit gives off a cosy, undone feel. Pictured: Quince
Alternatives: Sezane | H&M | Tradlands (15% off with JAMIEL15)
Neutral coloured trouser | This “essential” styling piece acts to ground our capsule, creating the start of an effortless foundation for countless outfits. In any fabrication or cut. Instead, think about the formality level you desire for your capsule and choose accordingly. An elasticated waist wide leg pant will read more relaxed, while a tailored pleat front trouser has an air of formality to it. Pictured: LILYSILK (20% off with 'JL20')
Alternatives: Madewell | Deiji Studios | Everlane
The statement pant | A great way to bring in some personality to a neutral wardrobe, and just get a little playful with your style. This could be a printed trouser, jean, or something in a bold hue. It’s about having that one piece that breaks up the uniformity and injects a sense of fun. Pictured: Sezane
Alternatives: Ganni (20% off) | Tuckernuck | Sezane
A midi or maxi skirt | Something with a bit of length to it; a reflection of the hemlines we’re seeing popularised at the minute which to me tend to carry a bit more drama than a mini. Pictured: Quince
Alternatives: Posse | Helsa | Mango
The low heeled shoe | The lift might be as subtle as a stacked heel, the idea here being that it can amplify a polished look, but is just as suitable when worn with something more casual. Depending on your climate, you might like to opt for an open toe. I chose a ballerina for its refined silhouette and closed toe (in case of spring showers!). Pictured: About Arianne
Alternatives: Bared Footwear | Veronica Beard | Flattered
the outfits
You can watch this capsule in video format above! :D
style notes
Use unexpected layers. The transitional season is the perfect time to take advantage of this. Shirts worn as tops, or wrapped across the body and belted; scarves worn as little capes; tees over dresses.
Spring doesn’t mean pastels have to take over. You could add in these traditional seasonal shades through your accessories, or just buck this notion entirely, reaching for the colours that feel most intriguing.
Lean into the contrast between structure and fluidity. Pair a crisp, tailored trouser with breezy blouses for an effortlessly balanced look.
Instead of reaching for prints or bright colours, consider letting texture do the work. A ribbed knit, crinkled cotton, or matte silk can add dimension to a neutral palette in a subtle way.
Play with interesting proportions. A thin, wrap belt can be a styling boon; unassuming, but immensely impactful. I love how this can create a peplum effect when worn with a tee, or define the waist by giving an oversized shirt some cinch.
Wrapping up with a couple of notes about the accessories I featured…
SILK SCARF | As usual, my Arket silk scarf doing a lot of heavy lifting, in adding some warmth and a graphic sharpness to a neutral look.
ROPE BELT | Highly underrated, this turned out to be my favourite styling piece to lean on. Creating shape and visual interest, and leaving lots of space for proportion play. Mine is from a coat but this one looks great (and comes in a few colours). Also included my usual go to for denim, this leather belt I’m always quick to recommend from Andersons.
SCULPTURAL SUNGLASSES | Thinking about how to play around with soft and sharp elements, a pair of sunglasses - like these from Miu Miu - can help to shift the balance.
TEXTURED BAG | A great way to bring in a final touch of tactile interest to your look. For years I couldn’t quite figure out why I never reached for a woven bag - something in a straw or raffia - as it felt like a solid wardrobe staple. I’ve been applying the view for years that wardrobe essentials are centred more around function than the actual form, yet neglected to see this from a handbag perspective until late last year. A less obvious way of incorporating that traditionally woven raffia sensibility into your look. Mine is Dragon Diffusion and for me it’s been worth the splurge, but you can find similar styles on Etsy for a fraction of the price.
BEADED NECKLACE | Currently trending, and I think a great way to play around with concepts of big and slim in your outfit. You could also use this to integrate a pop of colour, or create a sense of harmony within your colour palette. The one I included is this one from Sezane - comes in a few other gorgeous shades, too!