These two wardrobe staples are about to become your spring uniform

It’s officially spring, which means we’ve stepped into my favorite outfit weather of the year: shorts and sweater season.

I’m a huge proponent of an outfit formula. You know, that go-to look that you love, can mix-and-match pieces into, and comes together in as little as five minutes. And, as much as I try to not leave my house in glorified pajamas, ease of wear is definitely key with an on-the-go lifestyle. So, when it’s just warm enough to show some skin, but you still want to remain cozy on top, try the shorts-and-sweater combo.

Shop the below outfit ideas for my favorite kinds of shorts-and-sweater looks.

Elevated sporty

When you want to keep it sporty, but not look like you’re actually coming from a workout, consider styling athletic-inspired shorts with a cashmere sweater. This season, Sandy Liang has debuted a pair of running shorts with a twist that I can’t wait to style with this thin cashmere knit from Raey.

Shop the look: Raey V-Neck Fine-Knit Cashmere Sweater, $241; Sandy Liang Lace-Trimmed Shell Shorts, $295

Cycling chic

Bike shorts are undeniably one of this year’s biggest fashion trends—and, perhaps, the most confusing to style. Try pairing them with a sweater that’s just oversized enough to make you feel more dressed than someone who is actually out for a bike ride, but not so baggy that it totally covers the shorts underneath.

Shop the look:& Other Stories Cotton Blend Sweater, $49; Topshop Lace Trim Cycling Shorts, $20

The classic

Denim and stripes are timeless, and there’s no better time to indulge in them than spring. My two go-tos when it comes to denim and stripes are Re/Done and La Ligne, respectively, so check them out in every wash and color under the sun.

Shop the look:Re/Done Originals The Short Mid-Rise Denim Shorts, $172; La Ligne Mini Marin Striped Wool and Cashmere-blend Sweater, $250

Fashionably whimsical

Now that you’re emerging from the bleak season that was winter, it’s time to have a little fun with color. Instead of a classic-wash denim short, consider a little bit of color, whether that means a pastel pink or a brighter blue. On top, reach for tie-dye—yet another huge trend that’s about to explode this spring.

Shop the look:The Elder Statesman Tie-Dyed Cashmere Sweater, $945; Alexander Wang Bite Frayed Denim Shorts, $245

The chunky knit

When it comes to those still holding onto the more covered wardrobe of spring, it’s a great opportunity to keep those chunky knits in rotation, while beginning to slowly pair down on the bottom. Trade those full-length jeans for bright white jean shorts, but style them with your favorite heavier sweater on top.

Shop the look:Ganni Striped Mohair and Wool-Blend Sweater, $490; Levi’s Denim Shorts, $74

Shorts, sweater… and flip-flops? Here’s why one writer says never to that type of shoe—and don’t miss this guide to this season’s coolest sneaker styles.