Katie’s Spring Style Finds Feel Like a Breath of Fresh Air

Plus, what she wears during the confusing in-between weather.

KC spring fashion picks

Graphic by KCM

As a season, spring has range — but not always in the best way. One minute it’s sun-on-your-face glorious, the next, it’s sideways rain and a wind tunnel waiting around the corner. Luckily, Katie is adaptable and always ready for a challenge, whether she's in the interviewer's chair or browsing her own closet. 

Mastering this in-between season isn’t about throwing on a trench and hoping for the best. It’s about pieces that are flexible: polished but unfussy, practical but still visually punchy.

To prep for the unpredictability, we asked Katie what pieces have actually earned a spot in her rotation this time of year. And we're loving her responses: Think sleek faux leather pants that'll make you feel like a rockstar, lightweight knits that won’t make you overheated by noon, and accessories that pull it all together without trying too hard.

If you want to step into the season looking as fresh as a daisy, these are the spring essentials Katie's wearing this year.

Cable-Knit Sweaters

J.Crew Cashmere Pullover

J.Crew

After years of customers begging for the brand to bring its rollneck sweaters back, J.Crew finally resurrected them. This cashmere one maintains the signature neckline that many remember from the catalog days, now refined in cable-knit. The 2025 version offers a relaxed fit that falls just below the hip, so it can be worn with tailored trousers or baggy jeans and still look amazing.

$228 at J.Crew

Cotton On Quarter Zip Cable Knit Sweater

ASOS

When the temperature dips after sunset, Katie reaches for a sweater that does two jobs: warm enough to cut the chill, breathable enough not to feel excessively bundled. This 100-percent cotton knit is the kind you can throw over your shoulders for dinner and slip on for a breezy beach walk.

$45 at ASOS

Faux Leather Pants

Pistola Faux Leather Pants

Nordstrom

It’s no secret that Katie is on the petite side, which is why cropped pants are her go-tos. This faux-leather pair is from Pistola, and the barrel leg ensures they won't cling to her should the temperature creeps up. Plus, the deep cabernet color is right on trend for spring. 

$131 at Nordstrom

J.Crew Nipped Straight Faux Leather Pants

J.Crew

Want another faux-leather option? Katie wore these during a recent interview with Kate Hudson, and they’ve since become one of her most-worn items. The mid-rise and straight-leg fit is universally flattering, and they go with everything from silk blouses to white T-shirts. 

$90 at J.Crew

Pointed-Toe Flats

Steve Madden Shay Flats in Black

Zappos

If it’s nice, you can bet Katie will buy it twice, which is what happened with these slingback gems. (She bought this model and the one below.) The pointed toe gives the illusion of a longer legline without having an uncomfortable heel, and the statement buckle adds a bit of glam to the otherwise understated design.

$59+ at Nordstrom

Steve Madden Shay Flats in Brown Suede

Zappos

$100 at Zappos

Leather Belt

Rag & Bone Audrey Belt

Rag & Bone

When it comes to belts, it’s worth investing in one that'll last for decades. Though they’re a seemingly small and unobtrusive accessory, they can pull an outfit together with minimal effort. The brown suede will only get better with age, and the gold buckle coordinates with most of Katie’s daily jewelry (but we're fans of mixing metals, too). 

$228 at Rag & Bone

Short-Sleeved Polo

Banana Republic Polo

Banana Republic Factory

More versatile than your average polo, this knit version can be worn as a top or as a short-sleeve cardigan. The interesting texture adds a fun bit of interest to any outfit, and it’s made from 100-percent cotton, so you won’t overheat in it. 

$54 at Banana Republic Factory

Buck Mason Knit Polo

Buck Mason

Made from Italian cotton and linen in a stunning pointelle knit, this polo pairs comfort with polish. It comes in black, cream, and navy, each with delicate mother-of-pearl buttons that add a dainty touch.

$138 at Buck Mason

Yellow V-Neck Sweater

Mango Contrast Trim Sweater

Mango

Butter yellow has proven that it’s more than a fleeting fad, settling comfortably into the seasonal palette. Katie chose this under-$70 sweater to pair with her burgundy faux leather pants for a look that’s both refined and refreshingly modern.

$60 at Mango

Cream V-Neck Blouse

Favorite Daughter Date Blouse

Favorite Daughter

Sexy without feeling overdone, this drapey blouse can be worn with jeans for an intimate yet informal gathering, or with trousers for a meeting. Reviewers say the neckline can dip rather low, but it’s nothing a little wardrobe tape can’t fix. Best part? It’s a bodysuit, so it stays tucked into your pants and won’t ride up. Pro tip: You can leave it unsnapped at the bottom if you find bodysuits restricting.

$198 at Favorite Daughter

Tie-Neck Button-Up

TWP Clothing Next Ex Blouse

TWP

For those with classic taste but an urge to shake things up a little, take a cue from Katie and try a button-down with a tie-neck instead of a traditional collar. You can wear it on its own or under a sweater or blazer, allowing the tie to peek out.

$395 at TWP

J.Crew Jules Tie-Neck Top

J.Crew

Not entirely sold on the tie-neck detail? This one has a classic collar and a removable tie, so you can wear it either way. The heavyweight cotton fabric makes it crisp, but not stiff, and it has that oversized “boyfriend” fit that Katie loves. 

$118 at J.Crew

Green Heart Necklace

Kendra Scott Ari Heart Gold Necklace

Kendra Scott

During her winter trip to Costa Rica, Katie picked up a small heart necklace that she’s been wearing often since. This one is nearly identical, and at only $60, it’s a low-stakes addition to your jewelry collection.

$60 at Kendra Scott

Julie Vos Catalina Demi Link Necklace

Julie Vos

Never underestimate the power of a gold chain: It’s Katie’s go-to accessory for elevating an outfit. The hammered finish on this gold-plated necklace adds texture, and the toggle even has pearl endcaps, so you can wear it forward or backward depending on your mood.

$325 at Julie Vos

Pointed-Toe Leather Boots

French Connection Kitten Heels

Nordstrom

Until it’s warm enough to show our toes, we’ll be donning boots. Katie’s been pairing these with faux leather pants, but they could easily be styled with jeans, skirts, or dresses, too. The heel adds just a little bit of height, but it’s not tall enough to cause any discomfort or awkward teetering. 

$77 at Nordstrom

Ariat Cream Heritage Boots

Ariat

Katie's had the same pair of cream-colored cowboy boots for years, and she isn't planning on tossing them out any time soon. The pointed toe has the same leg-lengthening effect as more formal boots, but with this pair, you get the comfort of a lower, chunky heel and the casual feel of a Western style.

$190 at Cavender's

Chain Drop Earrings

V.BELLAN Vermeil Chain Drop Earrings

Bergdorf Goodman

When it comes to the jewelry she wears daily, Katie tends to stick to gold. Her latest earring addition features a chain silhouette. Despite the chunky style, they're lightweight and won’t tug on your ears, and the gold vermeil is a durable yet affordable option if you don’t want to splurge on solid gold.

$175 at Bergdorf Goodman

Striped Button-Ups

J.Crew Étienne Shirt

J.Crew

A striped button-up is perhaps one of Katie’s most-worn pieces once the weather gets warmer. She typically goes for one with a slightly oversized fit, rolling up the sleeves to give it a lived-in look. The offset stripes on this one add a funky twist to an otherwise classic silhouette.

$63 at J.Crew

Frank & Eileen Eileen Button-Up Shirt

Frank & Eileen

Those with larger busts know that wearing button-ups can be a challenge, but somehow Frank & Eileen have perfected the placket to help prevent gaping at the buttons. Don’t ask us what kind of witchcraft they used, but it’s a big part of the reason the brand’s shirts are beloved by Katie and so many others. 

$155+ at Nordstrom

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