Spring has arrived – and with it, the perfect excuse to give your wardrobe a fresh update. Soft tones like sky blue, off-white and beige are very much in season. They’re crisp, they’re calm, and they ooze the kind of understated elegance we want at this time of year. But pulling off light colours without veering into overly preppy or try-hard territory requires a touch of finesse. And that’s exactly where we come in. In this style guide for women and men, we’ll show you how to combine bright colours for spring looks that feel fresh, refined, and effortlessly put together.
Gone are the days of grey-on-grey and the moody hues of winter. Spring is about showing a bit of colour, even if it’s in subtle, understated tones. While summer might be the time for a more punchy palette, spring leans into lighter shades that bring clarity and calm to everyday dressing. So how exactly do you wear bright colours for spring? We’ve got three timeless outfit ideas for both women and men that go beyond this season.
Spring Looks for Women
Quiet Luxury
Few looks say quiet luxury like a crisp, all-white ensemble. Start with a white ribbed tank top, layered with an open white Oxford shirt worn loose for a touch of structure (and protection from that not-quite-summer breeze). Add high-waisted pleated linen trousers for a dose of minimalist refinement. Round things off with white slide sandals, a matching white belt with a gold buckle, and a touch of gold jewellery for a subtle luxe statement. Add a black oversized pair of sunglasses and a classic black leather tote for contrast, and you’ll get an airy, elegant, and confident look. Sophistication, distilled.
Preppy Beach Look
If you’re after a beach-ready look with a nod to prep, try a light blue Oxford shirt worn open over a bikini top, paired with beige chino shorts. Add a grey sweatshirt – whether pulled on or just draped over the shoulders – to keep things relaxed without losing structure. The muted, sun-washed palette is timeless and polished, and it works just as well strolling along the shore as it does wandering through town. Throw on some sunglasses, and you’re ready for the beach club.
A Dream in Taupe
In the Mood for clean lines, neutral tones and effortless cool? Then pair a relaxed-fit dust grey t-shirt, neatly tucked into beige shorts with a crisp silhouette, to bring subtle tonal depth into a natural colour palette. The earthy combination keeps things grounded, while feeling elevated and easy. Add a bold accent with a chunky silver chain necklace – an urban statement piece that lifts the look from simple to stand out without trying too hard. Finish with brown slide sandals and a bucket bag for a functional yet refined finish. With just a few key pieces, you’ve nailed a laid-back, well-balanced look that’s modern and timeless. This is your go-to spring outfit for spring days when you want maximum style with minimum effort whether you're city strolling, café-hopping or jetting off for the weekend.
Bright Colour Looks for Men
French Flair
For an easy spring look with a french magazine flair, pair a striped heavyweight t-shirt with ivory chino shorts and classic espadrilles. Add a minimalist pair of sunglasses, and voilà – you’ve got a bright spring ensemble that looks straight out of a style editorial. Whether you’re heading to a barbecue in the park, exploring the city, or sipping your espresso on a sunny café terrace, this look with iconic Breton stripes brings that unmistakable je ne sais quoi – no beret required.
Mediterranean Vibes
Let’s keep the southern energy going. Nothing brings sunshine into your daily grind quite like that southern state of mind. And if you’re up north dreaming of coastal cafés and slow summer days, here’s how to bring a little Mediterranean ease into your everyday life. Pair a lightweight off white t-shirt with loose-fitting beige linen trousers and espadrilles. For a subtle pop of colour, throw on an open lightblue Oxford shirt and add a pair of sunglasses and a shell necklace to complete the look. The light layering adds structure and lets you adapt the outfit to the mood or the weather. And if you want to dial it up a notch, half-button the shirt and tuck it in with the tee for a more refined vibe. Feeling the midday heat? Drape the shirt over your shoulders and lean into the relaxed, sun-drenched attitude. This is an effortless style with a sea breeze twist – versatile, modern, and relaxed.
Tone-on-Tone
Prefer to keep it minimalist? A tonal look in light shades delivers maximum style with minimal fuss. Try a classic white t-shirt with ivory chinos and white sneakers. That’s it. Done. It’s a look that’s equal parts timeless and modern. No gimmicks, no accessories, no noise – just clean design and cool confidence. If the evening gets chilly, throw on a beige sweatshirt and keep the tone-on-tone look intact. This outfit is for men who know exactly what they want.
How to Combine Bright Colours for Spring: Conclusion
We’ve all had our fill of black and grey over the long winter months. What we need now is light, and a bit of colour in our everyday style. Dressing in bright colours doesn’t just brighten your look, it brightens your mood. These soft, neutral shades bring a refined calm to your wardrobe, without falling into the trap of trend-chasing. This bright colour palette is timeless, versatile, and always modern. So, are you ready to bring a little light into your life? Explore SANVT’s sustainable essentials for your fresh spring looks.