22 Spring Dresses, Tops, Shorts, And Other Clothing We Absolutely Love

Shorts, dresses, jumpsuits, comfy jeans, loungewear sets...it's all fair game in the spring.

1. An adorable baby tee with a slightly frilled hem and sleeves so you can live out your '90s dream life. Wearing any other shirt for the foreseeable future? As if.

Sarah Lee / BuzzFeed

"Along with perfecting the denim, Madewell has an amazing selection of basic tees that are comfortable and offer a hint of chicness. My favorite is the Baby Tee that comes with lettuce-hem edges — perfect to pair with jeans, skirts, or even layer under dresses in the summer. It gives off a cool look while also looking clean and simple. My problem with most white tees are they always seem to be see-through but Madewell's Baby Tee is thick enough where your bra won't show! I love to dress this up with jeans or a skirt or wear it casually with leggings and shorts — the options are endless with this tee. It's super soft and I've found myself multiple times wearing it to sleep because I refused to take it off." —Sarah Lee

Get it from Madewell for $39.50 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and two colors)

2. A wildly adorable printed midi skirt and tank set that's the perfect combo of comfy and trendy. The "Best Dressed on Sunny Days" award is about to be yours.

Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed

"I love a matching set because it takes most of the work out of putting an outfit together. And this one is such a great deal! I love how comfy and easy it is to wear. I was concerned about it being see-through, but it wasn't! It has a stretchy waist and a cute tie detail in the front of the skirt. For spring days, I just throw a denim jacket over it. And, of course, I plan to wear it all summer as well. I would 100% buy more colors in this — and there are so many to choose from!" —Kayla Boyd

Get it from Amazon for $18+ (available in sizes XL–5XL and 36 colors and patterns).

3. A bike unitard – it's just really cool, if I do say so myself. It's super stretchy, easy to get into, and is shockingly supportive — so much more than I expected from a relatively niche piece of clothing! Yoga, jogging, and lil' picnics await you and this one-piece.

Girlfriend Collective, Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

Granted I'm the type of person who would salivate over owning a bike jumpsuit, but after having it for almost a year, I feel confident that this is a piece that could be beloved for almost anyone. It's made of Girlfriend Collective's signature compressive fabric, which hugs your body but doesn't feel suffocating or restrictive. But the most shocking feature is that it has a built-in bra that...actually works?! I'm a 34DD and this jumpsuit absolutely passes the "bounce test," and keeps my boobs in place really well when jumping and running. (It's not quite as supportive as my favorite Girlfriend Collective sports bra, the Dylan, but that thing goes above-and-beyond in terms of keeping you in place.) If you're tired of leggings and are looking for something new and fun to add to your collection of activewear that you can *actually* use, I highly recommend this!

Get it from Girlfriend Collective for $78 (available in sizes XXS–6X and six colors).

4. A patterned maxi dress for anyone who wants getting dressed to be easy and breezy without sacrificing style.

Heather Braga / BuzzFeed

"I wore this dress to my sister-in-law's socially distanced bridal shower — it was a hit! I'm about 5'1" and I didn't have to worry about hemming this dress at all. I'm *very* busty and went with the medium — it was a bit taught over my chest but the button loops were very forgiving so it didn't create that awkward this-top-is-too-tight look. Highly recommend!' —Heather Braga

Get it from Amazon for $30.99 (available in sizes S–XL and six patterns).

5. A pair of high-rise Levi's jeans, because finding a pair of jeans you can live in all year long is one of life's great journeys, and these just might be yours.

Melanie Aman / BuzzFeed

"These jeans! Where do I start? Well, first of all, they are surprisingly comfortable. They've been my go-to pair since pre-COVID times. I have a bad habit of eating to the point of being uncomfortably full (I just like food, OK?) and these pants never cut into my hips or stomach when I looked about three months pregnant with a baked mac 'n' cheese baby. Now that eating in restaurants isn't really a thing, I've still gravitated toward these jeans on days when I just want to feel...normal... I can sit at my desk while wearing them (sometimes I even sit cross legged) and I totally forget I'm wearing denim. And unrelated to their comfort, I love them because 1. they cup my butt nicely and don't make it look like a pancake and 2. they're the perfect length for my annoyingly short legs." —Melanie Aman

Get them from Levi's for $89.50 (available in sizes 23–32 and six washes).

6. A lightweight quilted jacket that allows for heavier layering when needed or for throwing it on as a light top layer for chilly evenings spent on the porch.

Z Supply

"This has been one of my main coats this season on days when it's 40+ degrees out and it keeps me just toasty enough without weighing me down. Its pockets are incredibly roomy and the snap closures mean it looks great buttoned or unbuttoned. Reviewers say to size down. I went with my regular size L and indeed could have sized down for closer fit but I wanted this to feel a bit boxy. I haven't fallen asleep in it, but it sorta feels like a blanket so it'll probably happen eventually." —Elizabeth Lilly

Get it from Z Supply for $110 (available in sizes XS–XL and three colors).

7. A pair of durable, snag-proof opaque tights that will be your go-to layering piece under dresses and skirts and will actually last for more than one season!

Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed

Snag is a woman-owned small business based in the UK.

"These are honestly the best tights I've ever owned! I'm a size 16/18 and it can be hard to find tights that are actually comfortable, not a struggle to put on, and don't rip before I've even stepped outside. These ones are dream come true!! I have been wearing dresses and skirts way more often this winter because I finally have tights I can feel comfy and confident in." —Kayla Boyd

Get them from Snag for $12 (available in seven sizing options and 11 colors).

8. A classic T-shirt dress, because having a go-to throw-on dress is *essential* to a spring and summer wardrobe and lifestyle as far as I'm concerned.

Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed, Everlane

This T-shirt dress was the base of, like, 50% of my outfits last spring and summer and I'm ready to do it all again this year! The fabric's the perfect thickness to feel sturdy and, most importantly to me, not clingy, but it still feels super light. I often pair it with a cardigan, denim jacket, chore coat, or even a button-up or flannel — the options are endless! The green pictured on me above sadly isn't available anymore, but they currently have a pink and black (!), and I'd be willing to wager more colors will be coming eventually. Never discontinue this dress, Everlane!

Get it from Everlane for $35 (available in sizes XXS–XL and two colors).

9. A pair of outdoor shorts with eight pockets (!!!!) for grand adventures the likes of which have never been seen...or for walking around your neighborhood in sweat-wicking comfort. Both work!

Alder

The shorts also come with a belt. Sweet!

"If you're someone who struggles with sweat in the spring and summer, these shorts are about to save your thighs' life. They are lightweight, easy to move around in (I'm talking comfortably sitting, squatting, or hiking up mountains) and they're the perfect article of clothing to don when you'd like to pretend you're really living the cottage core life you dream of. I don't think I could have gotten through another muggy Manhattan summer without these shorts. And I'll never have to again! Buying every color." —Mal Mower

Get them from Alder for $105 (available in sizes XS–4X and five colors).

10. A "Detroit City 'til I Die" sweatshirt from Not Sorry Goods to rep your favorite midwestern city with pride. Nobody does perfect spring nights like the Motor City! And Not Sorry Goods has tons of (often customizable) crewnecks and apparel to choose from if you're not lucky enough to be from or live in Detroit.

Skyler Murry / BuzzFeed

Not Sorry Goods is a Black and Latinx woman-owned brand based in Detroit that focusses on eco-friendly and upcycled apparel.

"I love being from Detroit (even in Brooklyn!) so recently I've been trying to start a rolodex of Detroit-based businesses that I love and want to shop from regularly. I don't remember how I found Not Sorry Goods, but it was a match made in heaven instantly! Like it literally checks all the boxes: Not Sorry is a an inclusive, sustainable, women-owned, Black and Latinx-owned, affordable brand that features the most badass apparel and accessories that are not only Michigan centric but speak to a whole slew of identities. This crewneck is so soft and warm and the embroidery is absolutely beautiful. Best believe I picked up a tote bag too and WILL be coming back for more!" —Skyler Murry

Get the "Detroit City 'til I Die" sweatshirt from Not Sorry Goods for $45 (available in sizes S–2XL, five colors, and 12 thread colors) and shop all of their apparel here.

11. The Platonic ideal of a V-neck tee so you always have just the right top to throw on under a cardigan or solo and still look mighty put-together.

Heather Braga / Madewell

"Do you ever find a staple item that just *works* with everything you own so you stock up on it in every single color? That's me with Madewell's Whisper Cotton tee. I have both the V-neck and scoop neck styles, solid colors and stripes — honestly, if it's a basic tee from Madewell it's probably in my closet. They pair nicely with high-waisted jeans and a belt but also look great under oversized cardigans, so they're useful all year long not just in one season!" —Heather Braga

Get it from Madewell for $9.99+ (originally $19.99, available in sizes XXS–XXL and nine colors).

12. An Outdoor Voices exercise dress with built-in shorts that let you move freely and stay covered while running, dancing, hiking or embarking on any other adventures.

Outdoor Voices, Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

I wore the exercise dress on a camping trip and absolutely loved it. It's tight enough that you feel agile but not SO tight that it's restricting. It was great for hiking, too! I even scaled some big ole' rocks and exposed mountain faces, and it fared really well. Despite me literally sliding down a giant rock on my butt, the dress never got caught, ripped, or showed wear. It's a trooper.

Get it from Outdoor Voices for $100 (available in sizes XS–XL and seven colors).

13. A pair of Wolven crossover pocket leggings, because leggings are an all-year event and you can get these in classic colors *or* some springtime pastels. Too cute!

Ali Faccenda / BuzzFeed, Wolven

"I've seen crossover style leggings all over my For You Page on TikTok and they look so CUTE on everyone who wears them. These mayyyyy just be my new fave leggings. They're high-waisted (legit the only kind I like) and have pockets on both sides which is perfect if I'm taking my dogs for a walk or running an errand and want to keep my phone on me at all times. I love where these hit me on my waist and honestly, these make me want to throw all my old leggings in the trash. If you're in the market for new leggings, I HIGHLY recommend you give these a whirl." —Allison Faccenda

Get them from Wolven for $98 (available in sizes XS–XXL and seven colors).

14. A two-tone collared jumpsuit from perhaps my favorite clothing brand of all time Fashion Brand Company. It never fails to make me feel like the king of my little world. It's a well-constructed, eye-catching investment piece whose thick fabric and sleeveless top makes it inherently perfect for spring and fall.

Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed, Fashion Brand Company

Fashion Brand Company is a woman-owned small business based in LA and founded by artist Penelope Gazin. Apologies that the photo of me that showed off the jumpsuit best (above on the left) is also me proudly holding a keg of cheeseballs.

This is my favorite piece of clothing, period. I've had it for about two years and there's never been a time I put it on and didn't feel like the world was my oyster. It's the garment I reach for when I know I wanna feel and look good — my big presentation outfit, my scary meeting outfit, my date outfit, my feeling awful and need to turn it around quick outfit. It washes shockingly well (much like everything I've ever purchased from FBC) and has retained it's perfect, structured fit over many, many runs through the washer. Most FBC garments are limited runs, but lucky for you this is a brand staple, so it's not too late. If you have the means, get this jumpsuit! I, for one, have never regretted it.

Get it from Fashion Brand Company for $165 (available in sizes XS–6X).

15. A two-piece linen lounge set for anyone looking to retire their cold-weather sweatsuit and transition to a new home-all-day fit.

Piglet, Danielle Healy / BuzzFeed

Piglet is a United Kingdom-based small business founded by Jessica Mason that creates beautiful and comfy home essentials like sleepwear, bedding, table linens, curtains, and more!

"This set is very comfortable, washes up well, and doesn't make me feel like a total slob when lounging around the house. I'm usually a medium, but I followed the Piglet sizing guide and opted for a small, which was definitely the right move. The top is a little big under the arms (a common problem for me). It's nothing egregious, but something to keep in mind if you're smaller-chested. As the weather warms I can totally see myself wearing this out of the house for some roof reading or errands and will feel cute and comfortable doing so!' —Danielle Healy

Get it from Piglet for $99 ( available in sizes XS—XL and in blush, midnight stripe, and white).

16. Some black denim shorts, because those little leggies want to see the sun! And do ya know what? I think the sun wants to see them too after being apart for so long.

Madewell, Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

I'm not really a shorts person, but leave it to Madewell to make a pair I actually like! I trust them for all of my denim needs and these do not disappoint. They're just the right amount of high-rise without being over-the-top and look great with shirts tucked in or left out. They don't ride up nearly as much as some other shorts I've tried and they wash up well. (I also dry mine and they survive every time, but I don't really recommend it. Do as I say, not as I do!) These are an all-around great pair of shorts — if you're like me and only need one or two pairs, these are a great contender.

Get them from Madewell for $69.50 (available in sizes 23–33) and check out the same shorts in a Curvy fit for $69.50 (available in sizes 23–33).

17. A Taylor Swift sweatshirt (or tee! or hoodie!) for anyone who knows *ahem* All Too Well they're not gonna stop blasting the new Fearless recordings now that they're finally out. :')

Heather Braga / BuzzFeed, Three-Thirteen

"A handful of us have ordered pieces from Three Thirteen and have nothing but positive things to say about this woman-owned small business. My fellow BuzzFeed editor Emma Lord didn't have to do much convincing to get me to add one of these beauties into my cart shortly after hers arrived. The Fearless one is the second to join my collection. The best part about this shop is that you can have the embroidery done on an array of items — sweatshirts, tees, hoodies, or a long sleeve. The quality is fantastic and I'll be living in mine while scream-singing Mr. Perfectly Fine." —Heather Braga

Get Fearless (Taylor's Version) sweatshirt from Three-Thirteen for $40 (available in sizes S–3XL) and shop the rest of their apparel (including Folklore and Evermore–specific threads here).

18. A pair of seamless bike shorts that are perfect for wearing under your favorite spring dresses, lounging around the apartment with the windows open, or running your little errands about town.

Emma Lord/BuzzFeed, Free People

"These shorts come in a bazillion rotating colors because they sell out so quickly you might blink and miss them. I own a pair in pink (that is me being v cheeky above) and can confirm that they are so comfortable that I genuinely had to look down and make sure I wasn't naked a few times, but still opaque enough to venture out into the world without worrying about everyone seeing your booty. I probably own 10 pairs of bike shorts now (don't look at me), and these are the comfiest by far." —Emma Lord

Get them from Free People for $20 (available in women's sizes XS–L and 22 colors).

19. A Bulbasaur apron dress for anyone who saw everything in BlackMilk Clothing's perfect Pokemon collection and knew they needed to catch 'em all.

Katy Herman / BuzzFeed

"I (along with many a stylish geek/half the people I meet at conventions) have long been a devotee of Australian brand Blackmilk. Their fandom-inspired collections are, to put it mildly, everything, and their other quirky clothes are fabulous too. They are known for their signature stretchy fabric, which is durable, comfy, and super cute on. It also makes pieces like this skirtall (and the pair of bunny-print overalls I purchased from them a couple years back) wayyyy easier to adjust than most other overalls. No fabric sticking in or coming loose from the buckles — it's easy to get a perfect fit.

Now, you may be saying, that's all well and good, but are we gonna talk about BULBASAUR?!? Why yes, we are. I could not resist trying several pieces from the brand's Pokémon collection (which they have been kind enough to restock fairly frequently since it launched last summer). This spring-tastic overall skirt printed with the evolutions of the best starter Pokémon (don't @ me) is comfy and easy, but seriously OMG-worthy. It's super cute for a quarantimes walk outside with a tee and sneakers, but I am also gonna toss it on with a blazer and combat boots when I actually have somewhere to go. And the fact that the top folds down to reveal a graphic of a snoozing Bulba bb??? I cannot. I saw that and hit 'add to cart' immediately, and all aspiring Pokémon masters should too. Just be sure to use the sizing tool on the site; it's super helpful!" —Katy Herman

Get it from BlackMilk Clothing for $90.73 (available in sizes XXS–L, sold out in sizes XL–XXL, but you can sign up for restocks).

20. A two-piece loungewear set with a breezy wrap top and comfy capris to elevate your loungewear game and stay cool all season.

Oddbird Co.

Oddbird Co. is a woman-founded small business based in LA and started by Turkish native Ceren Alkaç-Lee in an effort to offer a counter to fast fashion with consciously chosen, sustainable Turkish fabrics. Their goods are made of 100% natural and mostly raw fibers and they offer complimentary repairs on all items.

"This 'loungewear' set is quickly becoming the only outfit I'll wear out of my house. It looks equal parts effortless and chic, which is my forever fashion goal. The brand is amazing and the outfit even comes with a tote! My entire spring and summer wardrobe might just be this set in every color. Can't wait to find out." —Mal Mower

Get it from Oddbird Co. for $210 (available in sizes XS–XL).

21. A pair of curvy-fit skinny jeans with a narrower waist and more room in the hips and thighs to reduce any gapping you normally experience. Owning jeans that are cute, comfortable, well-fitted, *and* match everything is finally possible — we really can have it all.

AnaMaria Glavan / BuzzFeed, Madewell

"Now, if you share my problem of finding quality jeans that fit both your waist and thighs, then Madewell's curvy jeans line *is* the solution — they're specifically designed for hourglass figures that scoff at the idea of a belt. I own four pairs of denim from this line and I wear them, um, religiously. They're on the pricier side, but I cannot stress enough how worth it they are. I've washed all of my Madewell curvy jeans about 1,000 times each and they still fit *and* look exactly as they did when I first got 'em. No fading." —AnaMaria Glavan

For more info, check out AnaMaria's full Curvy Madewell jeans review!

Get for the Curvy High-Rise Skinny Jeans from Madewell for $128 for the Curvy High-Rise Skinny Jeans (available in sizes 23–37, as well as tall, taller, and petite sizes) or explore Madewell's entire Curvy collection to find your perfect cut.

22. And finally — I know this is a little unconventional — a box top sewing pattern from All Well Workshop for anyone who wants to make their spring wardrobe with their own two hands. I'm learning to sew myself and this pattern is one of the first things I sewed! It even comes with a "hacking guide" so you can customize your box top in myriad ways and use it over and over.

All Well Workshop, Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

All Well Workshop is a woman-owned small business from artists and collaborators Amy Bornman and Amelia Greenhall. This is a listing for a digital pattern that can be printed on standard paper at home, or on big paper at the print shop.

My partner and I were recently gifted a sewing machine from his parents and, having never really sewed before but with too much time on my hands, I've started off on the journey of sewing my own clothes. The All Well box top was my second ever project and, reader, I loved every second of making it. The instructions are *much* clearer than the ones you get with patterns from big companies, but the best best best part is how customizable it is. All Well has managed to strike the balance of being very instructional while also giving you the tools you need to be extremely creative. Being new to sewing, I was dreading the potential years of being beholden to pattern instructions before I knew enough to flex my creativity, but this pattern gives beginners and experienced sewists alike the ability to make the garments their own. I love every garment I've made from this base.

The pattern comes with four base variations: the sleeveless box top, the long sleeve box top, the ruffle top, and the box dress. But these variations can be distinguished even further using the "Hacking Guide" that's included with the pattern. The guide advises you how to make patch pockets, split hems, use color blocking, and so much more. So far I've made a sleeveless box top, a long-sleeve box top, and I'm almost done with a ruffle box dress in two-tone plaid color blocking — can't find that on the rack!

Get it from All Well Workshop on Etsy for $14 (the pattern comes with in six sizes ranging in bust sizes from 32"–62").

My spring self to my winter self:

Nickelodeon

The reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.