I don’t know about you but I love it when there’s a feel of Spring in the air after the long Winter months.

Here in the northern hemisphere it is that time.  But along with slightly warmer weather and slightly longer days, comes a dilemma…what to wear?

One of the questions I am asked most often is what to wear for that transition time!

And I understand how tricky it can be.  Although it can be quite warm in the middle of the day, it can still be quite chilly in the morning and evening and so dressing for the whole day can be difficult.

I’ve put together my top five tips for transitional dressing to help you through the next few weeks.

1. The Magic of Layering

Layering really is your best friend through this time of transition.

This will enable you to easily take a layer or two off as we get to the warmest part of the day…usually just before lunch until mid to late afternoon…and then add them back on as the day cools down again.

Nobody likes to be cold, but equally, it can be uncomfortable being too hot.  So. your best bet for a full day is to dress for the warmest part of the day, and then add maybe a cardigan, sweater or jacket, and an outer coat, so that you are warm enough first and last thing.

2. Wear Some Brighter Colours

By the end of a long winter, I think we’re all a bit over the dark colours that we wear for what seems like an eternity!

So one of the quickest ways to instantly feel more spring-like, is to switch to a brighter colour palette.

It may not feel appropriate to go straight into a full outfit of brighter colours, so maybe just add one or two of the elements of your outfit in a lighter colour.

Colour is one of the quickest ways to instantly feel lighter and more optimistic, so have fun and experiment with which colours make you feel more energised and ready for the warmer weather.

Of course the most important thing to think about when adding colour, is that the colour suits your skin tone.  Have a look at the first in my series of blog articles about how to make sure you are wearing your most flattering colours:

3. Switch Up Your Accessories

Heavy, dark bags, or thick woollen scarves are a definite giveaway that you’re still in full winter clothing.

If you’re going to start adding in some brighter colours, and perhaps lighter fabrics, you’ll want to make sure your whole look is cohesive.

So swap your black, navy or brown bag for a lighter colour.  It’s too early yet to go for cream, white or a basket style bag.  But try a light green, pink or red, or even a bag with a floral design.

As far as scarves are concerned, you may still need a scarf for your commute to and from work.  But try switching the woollen scarf or pashmina for a cotton or silk scarf.

You could also wear a statement necklace as well, so that when you take your scarf off in the warmest part of the day, you have a new and different look altogether.

4. Ditch The Long Boots

Knee-length boots really do make an outfit look very wintery.

However, that doesn’t mean you have to put all of your boots away.

Ankle boots can be a great way to transition your footwear, but not have your toes freezing and uncomfortable all day!

You could try ankle boots with leggings or tights under a lighter dress.

Other footwear styles that are great for this time of year, are loafers, mocassins, or pumps for work. Or you could try converse or trainers for more casual wear.

5. Re-Style Your Winter Pieces

Many of your winter pieces will still work for a few more weeks, if you style them slightly differently.

Here are some ideas you could try:

• Wear white or cream jeans with your winter tops or jackets.
• A floral dress can look great with ankle boots and a leather or tailored jacket.
• Wear your normal jeans with a silky top and cardy instead of a heavy sweater.
• Wear some of your dresses with leggings and canvas shoes or trainers, instead of opaque tights and boots.
• Try wearing trousers with a patterned blouse and jacket, and with loafers or macassins instead of boots and socks.

Click on the catalogue link below to see my selection of the current transitional items that are in the shops at the moment.

If you would like some help with adapting your wardrobe so that it is not only ready for the new season but also is full of items you love that look amazing, schedule a time to chat here and I’ll see what I can do to help.