"...when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade." -charles dickens
The sun shining, the ground thawing, the birds chirping... going from winter to spring has its magical effects. Magical for some, not-so-magical to me. I'm not afraid to admit this is my least favorite time of year. Specifically, the months of March and April. Being a winter girly, saying goodbye to the chance of snow (which we hardly get anymore), hanging up the faux fur and storing the boots is always bittersweet. Warm days always feel good after months of freeze, but spring hardly delivers in the Midwest. We'll get a sneak peek of it one day, the next we're turning the heater back on. So while I don't complain about winter lingering, the up and down isn't a ride I enjoy either.
And another thing... how are we supposed to get dressed?
If you're a little lost on what to pull out from your closet right now, know that I've been right there with you. This is, by far, my least favorite time of year to get dressed! Most days are still too cold to choose those light, airy fabrics, shorter sleeves and higher hemlines that we envision to be spring. And I'm still gazing at my favorite knit sweater knowing it would feel great and keep me warm. But at some point, typically after the calendar officially succumbs to spring, I get serious about forcing my outfits to follow suit. Let's dress for our reality, but make easy adjustments to feel fresh.
Helpful Styling Tips For Winter-to-Spring
1 >> ditch the truly winter pieces
Even if the temperatures don't agree, it is time to pack up (most) boots, overly fuzzy or thick sweaters and faux fur coats. Then, we'll make the switch to smart layering. Switch out the thick sweater for a lightweight cotton option or easy long sleeve. Layer underneath with a white button-down or base layer if needed for warmth. Or choose a sweater vest and layer on top with a jacket or blazer. If you still need boots, grab ankle boots or even try loafers with a sock. Warm, yet practical. Ditch your faux fur coat and grab a trench, denim jacket or quilted option.
2 >> show some skin
Choose a v-neck, square or boatneck vs a turtleneck. Mules or clogs vs boots. Cropped jeans vs wide leg. Showing off the ankles, collarbone, wrists or anything subtle & bearable can really lighten up a look even if you're still wearing heavier fabrics & layers. Bonus if you get a day to wear a sweater with shorts! The best... and maybe the only perk of spring dressing?
3 >> add pops of color
One outfit combo I find refreshing this time of year is an open cardigan with a graphic tee underneath. Or a pop of pattern if you'd rather. Use color to make the look stand out. Colors can remain subtle if you prefer neutrals. Think lavender, olive green, light blue... something light, but impactful. Accessories can be your source of color, too.
Keep these winter-to-spring style tips in mind while struggling to get dressed over the next few weeks... or however long the weather drags us along. Know you're not alone and the most important thing is to be comfortable and confident in what you're wearing. Sunshine days will be here soon enough!
Cheers!