I’m not typically someone who has “outfit formulas.” I’m “a wake-up and assess how I feel, then dress according to my mood” type of person. Creativity has to drive my wardrobe or I feel completely uninspired going about my day. 

But, of course, there are exceptions to every rule, and I have always lived by the phrase “Never say never.” Which, I guess, is how I found myself repeating the exact same outfit combination since spring arrived. 

And it’s all thanks to my favorite cardigan.

cardigan | tank | shorts | sandals | bag (similar)

An Unexpectedly Cool Spring Outfit: Cashmere Cardigan With Jeans Shorts & Sandals

I’m aware that my beloved Jenni Kayne cashmere cardigan is silly expensive, but dang it if I don’t get more wear out of it than nearly anything else in my entire closet. Cost-per-wear has paid off, especially since I’m still gravitating towards it as the weather warms up.

But there is an alternative Quince cardigan so similar I wrote a detailed breakdown comparing the two. And it works just as well for my spring outfit formula (actually, I’m rotating the two so as not to wear the exact same thing three times a week…gotta keep it fresh somehow?). 

cardigan | tank | shorts | bag

This outfit is equal parts simple, cozy, and understatedly chic. It checks all my boxes for How To Look The Most Put Together With The Least Amount Of Effort busy-mom-life.

cardigan | shorts | sandals | bag (similar)

All you need is a go-to stretchy tank top, a great pair of jeans shorts, some sandals to slip into, and of course, a drapey cardigan. Add some accessories if you’re feeling the spice of life.

Spring Outfit 1: Jenni Kayne Cocoon Cardigan With Mom Shorts & Comfort Sandals

cardigan | tank | shorts | sandals | bag (similar)

Cashmere has this wild ability to keep me warm in the winter, yet I don’t overheat when wearing it in spring and summer (at least not on the breezy coast of California). 

I’ve owned this Jenni Kayne cardi longer than my Quince version, and it has held up incredibly well in a toddler-mom world. Pilling is inevitable with well-worn cashmere, but I’ve found the Cocoon Cardigan to look even better with a little worn-in appeal… like your favorite summer romcom that just gets more romantic with time.

PS. This fabric shaver works wonders if you’re not as swooned by my worn-in-comfort look.

cardigan | tank | shorts | sandals | bag (similar)

These neutral slides from Reef are made with vegan leather.

Fit Notes: Both cardigans are intended for an oversized fit, but I still grab large for that extra drapey-blanket quality that I adore. Stick with your true size for a naturally oversized fit or even size down, depending on your preferences.

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Spring Outfit 2: Quince Boyfriend Cardigan With Agolde Parkers & Flip Flops

cardigan | tank | shorts | bag | sandals

Rocking a cashmere cardigan in spring and summer is easy to do when using it as a layering piece. If the sun ever scorches me too much while I’m out and about, I can take it off and throw it over my shoulders. But honestly, a little scrunch of the sleeves often does the trick.

Cashmere has the ability to keep your temperature regulated, as opposed to synthetic fibers that can leave you sweaty and uncomfortable. It’s also moisture-wicking (meaning if you do sweat a little, the fabric won’t absorb it or take on any, ahem, odor). Oh, and also: these Olukai flip-flops go with just about everything.

cardigan | tank | shorts | bag

So, it turns out, my favorite oversized cardigans are perfect to pair with jean shorts. I can keep the cool, drapey style up top, and pair it with shorts and sandals on the bottom for a summery look that feels aligned with the seasons. 

This outfit formula is kinda like the grown-up version of the sweatshirt and gym shorts of my youth. I can’t stop wearing it.

Xx,
Amy

Let’s be friends on Instagram! Sharing life from a California beach town, daily style & beauty faves, and never-ending Gilmore Girl binge-athons – all with a good dose of adorable toddler content, too.