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I haven’t shopped Madewell in years, mainly because the designs in the past felt a little too cottagecore for my personal style. After cleaning out my closet this past month, I decided to take a quick peek inside and I was shocked. It felt like a completely different brand. If you have yet to rediscover Madewell or are a longtime fan, here are all the elevated basics that’ll make putting together outfits this spring a breeze.
For more spring fashion, shop our fashion week guides here.

I’ll keep screaming it from the rooftops, but my most needed item post closet cleanout is tops that aren’t T-shirts. Madewell 2.0 is one of the best spots for trendy pieces that’ll carry through seasons. This khaki button-down has bubble sleeves and modern pleating that pairs well with everything from denim to trousers. ($98, Madewell)

Our Affiliate Manager told me about this top and when I featured it in our Skimm Shopping newsletter, Skimm’rs couldn’t get enough of it. You’ll be seeing denim everything this spring, and this vest top is a nonintimidating way to try the trend. I love the V-shaped silhouette with high-waisted pants or skirts. ($95, Madewell)

Another huge trend for spring: all things green. This bouclé-knit sweater tee is versatile enough to wear on its own or layered underneath a warmer jacket. The bright green color is eye-catching already, so you don’t have to go crazy with adding more color. PS: I also love sweater tees if your office thermostat has a mind of its own (👋). ($65, Madewell)

This one isn’t too boxy or cropped. It sits right at the waist for effortless tucking and has a slightly oversized fit that drapes nicely. While $42 is steeper for a tee, it will last for years to come. I have some Madewell T-shirts from nearly 10 years ago that are still going strong. ($42, Madewell)

Madewell’s Kick Out Crop Jeans are some of my favorites of all time. I get the petite length, but if you’re also short, you can get away with wearing the regular length sans alterations. They’re high-waisted, stretchy, and get softer with every wash. If you’re looking for a pair of jeans that aren’t too skinny, but aren’t too straight-legged, get these. ($138, Madewell)

These baggy jeans have the silhouette of sweatpants, but they’re made of a lightweight denim you can wear in warm temperatures. I’m eyeing these for spring and summer on the days I want extra coverage. ($148, Madewell)

I have yet to try out the barrel-leg pants trend, but if I were to try it, I know I’d be going to Madewell. This version isn’t overly exaggerated, so it feels like an approachable way to try the trend. The fact that this style comes in petite and tall versions is an added bonus. ($148, Madewell)

Sometimes you want the feel of denim without the look of it. I have these Emmett Wide-Leg pants in a now sold-out chocolate brown color, but they currently come in khaki, black, and blue. I usually pair mine with some sneakers and a T-shirt for a casual weekend look. ($118, Madewell)

This dress has a drop waist and wide cuffed sleeves. It’s made of 100% linen, so it’ll keep you cool during upcoming vacations and warm office commutes. Wear it with a bright statement necklace and you’ll have a cute summer uniform in seconds. ($148, Madewell)

I’d throw a blazer on top of this for a casual work look, or wear it on its own but change up the shoes to dress it up or down. The gingham print screams spring, but because it’s black and white it’ll be easy to add to your rotation. ($148, Madewell)

You can’t go wrong with a classic floral midi dress. This one is also aligning with this season’s green trend and has a ruched bodice for added support. Add this straw bag for a summer date night look. ($158, Madewell)

You might have to do some extra digging, but you can always find a good wedding guest dress at Madewell. This square neck midi dress comes in both black and khaki, but I’d suggest grabbing the black and using accessories to dress it up. It has a fitted bodice and a skirt with lots of volume, so it’ll easily pass for a nice-enough dress for your upcoming event. The best part: You aren’t spending a ton on a wedding guest dress you’ll never wear again. ($158, Madewell)

I’ve been on a wild chase for the green version of this bag for weeks now, and it keeps selling out. Its woven detailing makes it look expensive, and its medium size means you can fit a ton without having to lug around a whole tote bag. I love that it comfortably fits under the crook of your arm. Whether the green comes back in stock or not, I will be buying this bag before it sells out again. ($148, Madewell)

This belt is one of those magic pieces that always makes me look put together. It’s made of leather and has chunky metal detailing that nicely peeks through when worn under a jacket. My go-to way to wear it is with jeans and a sweater. And yes, it’s a dupe for this Khaite belt. ($88, Madewell)

I’ve been wearing Madewell’s basic sandals for years. I love how inexpensive they are, but they’re so high-quality that they last. This year’s basic pair are these woven slides, which are perfect for throwing on with dresses when you don’t know what shoe to wear. ($88, Madewell)

If you’re looking for a comfortable shoe that isn’t a sneaker, might I suggest these Mary Janes? At $128, they’re an attainable way to try out the trend and they have a cloud-like insole that won’t pinch your feet. Pick from eight different styles. ($128, Madewell)

This dome cuff looks almost exactly like Elsa Peretti’s Bone Cuff at Tiffany’s but at a fraction of the cost. It’s made of recycled factory scrap metal and is safe for those with nickel allergies. ($58, Madewell)

My mom just bought this necklace, so obviously I will be copying her. This is another stackable option that looks way more expensive than it is. If you’re looking to incorporate more color into your wardrobe, this semiprecious beaded choker is a great starting point. ($44, Madewell)

Hoop loyalists, we’ve found a unique pair to add to your collection. These chunky hoops have a light-catching twisted detailing in the middle. Their sleek latch closure makes them easy to put on, and because they don’t have a back, you can sleep in them without any discomfort. They’re made of 100% gold-plated brass and are safe for those with sensitive skin. ($34, Madewell)

Madewell’s done it again. This time, with a linked ring that’s meant to be a riff on the nearly $3,000 ring from Spinelli Kilcollin. My favorite detail: Since the links are moveable, you can treat this ring like a subtle fidget toy. ($48, Madewell)
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