Spring is the season of revival and renewal – and there’s no reason why your wardrobe shouldn’t follow suit. I caught up with Fashion Expert Lynne McKenna, who shares why the answer to a fresh start isn’t about buying more – it’s doing a clear out
Words: Amy Dowrick | Images: Shutterstock & various brands
Believe it or not, there is a science behind spring cleaning. With longer, brighter days comes more exposure to sunlight (in between every few minutes of showers, of course), and our winter sluggishness is finally being kicked out – and replaced with lots of springtime buzz. So, what better time for a wardrobe reset?
Klass’ Fashion Expert Lynne McKenna swears by springtime wardrobe clear-outs this season – and the perks are more than worth it.
“With one honest clear-out, you instantly save time, money and that daily ‘what do I wear?’ fatigue,” she says. “The aim isn’t an empty wardrobe – it’s a focused one. When you can see what you own, styling becomes quicker, sharper and far more enjoyable.”
“A streamlined wardrobe reduces decision fatigue,” she adds. “You’re not rummaging; you’re selecting. Everything fits. Everything works. Everything earns its place.”
From being honest about your pieces to her capsule must-haves, Lynne shares her wardrobe reset tips to take you through to the summer months in style.
Lynne’s two-step wardrobe reset
Step one: The honest clear-out
Lynne suggests starting with three piles: the ‘Love’ pile, the ‘Maybe’ pile, and the ‘No’ pile (you get the gist):
Love: For pieces you can style in multiple ways, you reach for on repeat or that are constantly in the laundry.
Maybe: For pieces you like but rarely wear because they’re tricky to style or outfit build with the rest of your wardrobe.
No: For pieces you haven’t worn in a year, don’t fit comfortably, or don’t make you feel great.
Step two: Identify the gaps
“Once you’ve stripped things back, the gaps become obvious,” says Lynne, who suggests you start building up the foundations instead of heading straight for the trends.
“Think of this as building a capsule that works hard from Monday meetings to weekend lunches,” she says.
“Think about the staples you can wear on repeat, the pieces you can style multiple ways and make outfit-building easy,” she adds. “Wherever you’re missing those versatile go-to items, that’s where the gaps are.”
Stuck on how to dress this spring? Try these transitional layering ideas – and get the look
5 key wardrobe staples for a capsule wardrobe this summer
Now that you can see what you’re working with, it’s time to build your capsule wardrobe. These are the key staples that go with everything, earn their place, and make getting dressed feel easy again – without adding clutter. Here are some of Lynne’s favourites:
The statement white top
Klass crochet lace button jacket
Lynne’s verdict
A fresh white top like this crochet lace jacket will instantly lift your look and make everything else in your wardrobe feel more polished! It’s a stylish touch to see you through the seasons.- Polished finish
- Faux pearl and gold buttons add a vintage feel
The dark-wash jean
M&S wide-leg jeans
Lynne’s verdict
Wide-leg dark denim jeans like these are easier to wear than you think and will update your wardrobe in an instant – flattering, easy to dress up or down, and an instant update on skinny styles.- Distinctive flare look with added comfort
- Flattering high waist
- Authentic stretch denim for a relaxed palazzo feel
- Easy-to-wear wardrobe staple
The navy jacket
M&S flight bomber jacket
Lynne’s verdict
A navy jacket is the ultimate ‘smartner’ – it adds instant polish over a simple tee and works across seasons as a layering piece.- Timeless piece for your wardrobe
- Relaxed fit
- Ribbed hem and cuffs create an authentic look
A pop of colour
H&M broderie-anglaise cotton shirt dress
Lynne’s verdict
Spring needs colour, but wearable colour. A single hero colour piece can transform a wardrobe, especially if you tend to default to neutrals – it brings energy, freshness and personality!- Detachable, bead-ended tie belt at the waist for flair
- Concealed buttons down the front for comfort
The wear-with-everything jacket
Klass boucle zip up jacket
Lynne’s verdict
A light jacket you can throw on and go is essential for spring – it bridges the gap between coat weather and cardigan weather, and instantly makes casual outfits look intentional.- An instant update for any outfit
- Lined for comfort
- A wear-on-repeat piece
“Spring dressing shouldn’t feel complicated – and with a considered edit and a handful of well-chosen additions, you can refresh your wardrobe without replacing it entirely,” adds Lynne.
The result? Fewer clothes, better outfits – and mornings that feel far more straightforward (all while you walk out of the door feeling fabulous!)
Lynne McKenna is a fashion expert and Klass’ resident stylist with over 15 years of experience. To view her work, visit www.lynnemckenna.com, or follow her on Instagram @lynnemckennastyles.
