By Jackie Condura
As the long winter is slowly winding down, we’re beginning to look ahead towards
spring fashion! For many, this time of year is welcomed with new trends and
moving into a refresh for our style and wardrobe. That in between time when it’s
not quite warm yet, but the worst of the coldest weather has past, and we once
again feel the sun’s rays shining down, can leave us wondering how to dress for the
fluctuating temperatures and the season ahead. I’ve got some tips for you on how
to do just that!
The key to dressing for transitioning seasons is all about using color, fabrics, print, texture and layers in your outfit. Each of these elements can help bridge your fashion from one season to another.
Color
Color is one of the easiest ways you can transition your wardrobe. Start mixing
your winter colors with a dash of lighter and brighter colors for spring. Pair the darker winter shades we’ve been wearing for the last few months with some of the lighter and brighter colors that are coming into season.
A great way to find out what colors are going to be trending for spring is to check out Pantone’s seasonal color palette for some inspiration. If you’re all about neutrals, you can opt for lighter versions of those colors too. This also applies to wearing denim, where you can even lighten up your washes for spring.
Fabric
As the weather begins to warm, we can start to wear lighter fabrics. Moving away from wools and other heavier textiles, we can begin by adding in some materials like cotton and linen. They’re a lighter weight and more breathable to wear as the temps thaw out again. Mixing the fabrics of your outfit makes for a chic juxtaposition in your look with elevated styling. For example, pairing leather with linen or Chambray not only meshes the two seasons, but also strikes a balance
between hard and soft fabrications. This ties it together in more ways than one while still keeping you dressed seasonally appropriate.
Wearing prints is a fun way to show some of your personal style and this is another element we can use to transition our wardrobe. Spring brings the reintroduction of bountiful florals along with polka dots, stripes and gingham. Though some of these are classic prints that we see worn throughout the year, they tend to be featured often in the warmer months.
Look to do pattern mixing by combining your cozy paisleys with a classic stripe. You’ll want to stick with just pairing two prints or patterns together to avoid it becoming too chaotic. This can also be done with the scale of prints. Larger and bolder prints are typically present during the colder months, while we find smaller, more delicate prints in the warmer weather.
Texture
Texture goes hand in hand with fabric. Textured pieces also add interest and dimension to your look. Adding some soft and delicate textures like lace, seersucker and crochet with richer ones like corduroy or suede play well with each other and provide a blending of tactile experiences.
Layers
We love living in layers, but it can be tricky when the weather can be changeable from day to day. Dressing in layers that are removable is a great way to be prepared for the shifting seasons. There’s no better time to wear your blazers and cardigans. You can complement them with a short sleeve or sleeveless top in case things start to heat up. Additionally, a scarf is good for fashion and function because it’s a stylish accessory that’s easily removable.
With the need for outerwear almost gone, our entire outfit will be seen more soon. Don’t forget to dress in a complete look. Our outfits are a focal point when there’s nothing hiding them, so dress from head to toe and include accessories as part of your look to pull it all together. Use fashion scarves or jewelry and belts to finish off your looks.
Following these styling tips will help to seamlessly transition your wardrobe with the weather and keep you looking stylish all year long!
For more from Jackie Condura, check out her website and follow her on Mys Tyler @stylingsbyjackie.