Walk Into Spring: How to Build on What You Already Have By Jeannine Traynham | March 2026
Spring is almost here, Beauty and that means it's time to look at your closet with fresh eyes.
Not to start over. Not to throw everything out. But to build on what you already have and take your style to the next level this season.
At The Empire Collection, we put together pieces that are meant to work together, mix, match, layer, and style in multiple ways. So whether you've been shopping with us for years or just found us, here's how to use what's already in your wardrobe as the foundation and let our spring pieces be the finishing touch that ties it all together.
Step 1: Look at What You Already Own as a Starting Point
Before you shop, do a quick run-through of what you have. Pull out your sets, your tops, your kimonos, your dresses. Lay them out and ask yourself: What am I missing that would make this outfit complete?
That's the smart way to shop. You're not replacing, you're completing. Maybe you have a great bottom but need a fresh top to go with it. Maybe you have a kimono that just needs the right fitted set underneath it. This is how you build a wardrobe that actually works for you instead of a closet full of things that don't go together.
Step 2: Split Your Sets Up
If you've been wearing your matching sets as one full look, try breaking them apart this spring. Pair the top with white jeans, a flowy skirt, or linen trousers. Wear the bottoms with a bright new top from our spring collection. Suddenly one set becomes three or four outfits.
This is exactly why we invest in quality sets because they're not just one look, they're a wardrobe building block. And when you add one new Empire piece into the mix, the possibilities multiply even more.
Step 3: Layer in a Kimono or Ruana
A lightweight kimono is one of the most powerful transitional pieces you can own. If you already have one, it's about to carry you through every unpredictable spring day, warm in the afternoon, cool in the evening, and stylish the whole time.
Don't have one yet? This is the piece we'd tell you to add first. It layers over sets, dresses, jeans and a top, basically anything. It's the one item that makes everything else in your closet work harder.
Step 4: Reach for Color
Spring is the season to stop playing it safe. That lime green set you bought but haven't worn? Now is its moment. The magenta top sitting in the back of your drawer? Pull it out.
Color is the easiest, most affordable refresh your wardrobe can get. And if your closet is heavy on neutrals, this is where adding one bright Empire piece, a bold set, a colorful top, a printed kimono instantly modernizes everything you already own.
Step 5: Refresh With Accessories
You don't always need new clothes to look like you have a new outfit. Sometimes it's the accessories that make all the difference:
- Swap dark jewelry for gold tones, colorful beads, or layered delicate chains
- Trade the boots for white sneakers, mules, or strappy sandals
- Add a woven bag or bright crossbody to a look you've worn all winter
- Tie a silk scarf in your hair or around your bag handle for an instant spring pop
Same pieces. Brand new energy.
Step 6: Fill the Gaps Intentionally
Now that you know what you have and how it works together, this is the time to shop with purpose. Not trends for the sake of trends, but the specific pieces that complete your existing looks and open up new outfit combinations.
Think about what you reach for most. If you love sets, add one in a fresh spring color. If you wear dresses constantly, grab a lightweight option you can dress up or down. If you layer everything, a new kimono or open-front cardigan is your next move.
This is how a real wardrobe is built, intentionally, piece by piece. And we'll be right here with the pieces that make it all come together.
Your Wardrobe, Elevated.
Spring isn't about starting over, it's about stepping up. Take what you have, style it smarter, add the pieces that make it all click, and walk into this season feeling like the most confident version of yourself.
Because that's what The Empire Collection is all about. Not just clothes, but helping you show up, every single day, feeling unstoppable.
Ready to find your next building block? Sign up for our text messaging to be alerted when spring arrivals at https://bit.ly/4aYEbue
Show us how you're styling your Empire pieces this spring! Tag us on Instagram @shoptheempirecollection — we love seeing your looks!
