It's here—that awkward time of the year when it’s not hot and it’s not cold. These months can be hard to dress for, but you know what that means? It’s time to break out Spring fashion! Don’t put away your winter clothes yet. With some styling tips you just may get a little more use out of your cold weather wardrobe after all. Don’t let your closet go to waste; there are ways to utilize last season’s styles and integrate them into current trends without overheating.
Layers
As we move into Spring, the weather has a habit of being unpredictable. It may be brisk in the morning but by the time lunch rolls around, you’re sweating in your jacket. The best way to dress for this is by wearing layers. Layering gives you the functionality to move seamlessly from one look to another to accommodate comfortability. Too hot? Just remove the outer layer to reveal an equally sharp outfit underneath. Here are some tips to keep in mind when picking out pieces to layer with:
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Lightest layers go underneath. To avoid bunching, let the layer closest to your body be the lightest fabric and consider a short sleeve to avoid bulkiness in the arms. Note that this is a good time to bring out your lighter clothing like cottons and linens. Heavier fabrics like wool, flannel and sherpa should be your outermost layer if the extra warmth is needed.
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No more than three layers. Anymore than this will appear to add unwanted weight.
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Color Coordination is important. Your layers don’t have to match exactly. In fact, this is a fun way to add pops of color to a look. Just make sure the tones are analogous (this means they sit next to each other on the color wheel. For example, you could layer blues with greens) or monochromatic (different shades of the same color.) Neutral colors like black, white, and beige go with any color. You can add a patterned layer as well, but only one.
Speaking of colors, this is a great time to start breaking out the lighter tones. Retire your blacks, grays, navies, and maroons and opt for lighter shades of your favorite colors. If you’re really fashion forward, try some pastels. Some spring hues that look good on most people include sky blue and greens.
Accessories
Accessories are a must if you’re looking to get the most out of your wardrobe. Adding a belt, hat, or watch can elevate a very simple look into something totally different. Take your go-to outfit and try adding a patterned scarf for a fun pop. Draw inspiration from New York city street style and pair a nice coat with a hat and sunglasses for an instantly chic and modern style. Match your belt to your shoes for some understated flair. Add a scarf if the weather permits.
Spicing up your wardrobe doesn’t necessarily mean buying new clothes. Using your winter wardrobe to transition into Spring is a great way to get the most out of your clothing. The key is to make sure you’re buying quality pieces that can withstand the wear and tear of usage over a couple years so you can recycle and reimagine new looks from the same materials!
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