How to Transition Your Wardrobe from Winter to Spring
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As the season changes from winter to spring, our wardrobes should adapt as well. Although it’s not quite warm enough to bring out sleeveless dresses, tailored shorts, and open-toed sandals, our bulky winter wardrobes are too warm for the changing weather. Adding a few essential pieces to your capsule wardrobe is the perfect way to dress during the in-between seasons and shift your closet from one season to another. In this post, I’m sharing 8 transitional spring outfit ideas to help you stylishly adapt your wardrobe from winter to spring.
Each outfit features a wardrobe basic that will help you prepare your wardrobe for the warmer weather and begin experimenting with your spring style. These winter-to-spring transitional wardrobe must-haves can be worn year-round but will be especially useful when the weather is variable. They’re versatile and can serve as timeless capsule wardrobe basics. In fact, you probably already have some of these pieces in your closet.
You can create several different outfits just by using these transitional essentials, but they’re also easy to pair with pieces from your winter wardrobe. For example, a trench coat can be worn with a pair of jeans and loafers on a warmer spring day or with a pair of chunky leather boots and a cashmere sweater on a cooler day. Wear a pair of white jeans with your favorite winter knit and a pair of loafers with thick socks or try it with a lightweight sweatshirt and a pair of comfortable sneakers. The options are endless with these winter-to-spring wardrobe basics.
How to Transition Your Wardrobe from Winter to Spring
1. Assess Your Current Wardrobe
Before beginning your spring shopping, take stock of your existing winter wardrobe. Identify versatile pieces that can seamlessly transition from winter to spring. Classic items like lightweight sweaters, ankle boots, and neutral-colored coats often serve as perfect transition pieces. Then, bring out your spring wardrobe. Decide on which items you want to keep, donate or store.
2. Layer, Layer, Layer
Spring weather can be unpredictable, with chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. Layering is your best friend during this transitional period. Pair a chunky sweater with a lighter jacket or cardigan that you can easily remove as the day warms up. Mixing and matching layers not only adds dimension to your outfit but also ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day.
3. Play with Colors and Patterns
Spring is synonymous with vibrant hues and playful patterns. Incorporate pops of color into your wardrobe to reflect the new season. Experiment with pastel tones like soft blues, pinks, and yellows, or opt for bold floral prints that scream springtime. Don't be afraid to mix different patterns or try wearing the 2024 Color of the Year.
Read More: How to Wear ‘Peach Fuzz’, Pantone’s Color of the Year 2024
4. Introduce Lighter Pieces
Swap out your heavy winter boots for lighter options such as loafers, sneakers, or ankle boots. Incorporate accessories like scarves, hats, and statement jewelry to elevate your look without adding bulk. Begin to add breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and lightweight knits that allow your skin to breathe as the temperature rises. These materials keep you comfortable while feeling effortlessly stylish for the spring season.
8 Winter to Spring Wardrobe Essentials
To transition effortlessly from winter chill to mild spring, I’ve put together my favorite pieces to dress effortlessly during the changing seasons. From versatile accessories to breezy layers, these wardrobe must-haves bridge the gap between winter and spring. These go-to essentials are my companions during these transitional weeks. They infuse some spring style into my outfits even amidst the lingering winter days.
Transitional Winter to Spring Outfits
1. Trench Coat
A classic trench coat is the ultimate outerwear piece for the in-between season. Wear it over your winter outfits to add extra warmth without the bulkiness of a winter wool coat, or style it with your favorite spring looks. My go-to casual look for cooler spring days is a crewneck sweater, a pair of straight-leg jeans, and a pair of simple sneakers.
Although I always opt for a timeless style, you can also find cropped, belted and patterned trench coats. Choose a version that reflects your personal style. Consider also the tone of your trench coat. Some trenches are warmer and more camel-colored and others are cooler and more gray-toned. Consider your most-worn pieces and choose a color that works best with your own wardrobe. If you’re considering buying just one item on this list, I’d recommend a trench coat.
Read More: 8 Wardrobe Basics You Need in Your Closet
2. Knit Cardigan
One fall-to-spring style staple is the cardigan, and if you have one in your closet, don’t store it away quite yet. This cozy, yet chic knit is the perfect layering piece to stay warm as the season changes from winter to spring. Wear it over a thermal top on a colder day or a lightweight t-shirt when the weather is warm. I’ve also seen it styled with a classic button-up shirt underneath and even nothing at all. Sport it fully buttoned to stay extra warm or try it unbuttoned over your favorite basic tops.
You can find cardigans in a range of colors and textures on almost any budget. Many also have unique details like bold buttons, oversized collars, and elegant ribbing. Go for a chunky cardigan or a lightweight option that you can wear into the summer months.
3. Crewneck Sweater
A crewneck sweater is another classic option for your winter-to-spring wardrobe. Skip on ultra-warm turtleneck sweaters and lightweight scoop neck knits for a more versatile crewneck sweater. You can style it with almost any outfit, but I love wearing mine with a pair of straight-leg jeans, leather loafers and a long trench or wool coat.
If you don’t already own a crewneck sweater, consider adding one to your closet. It’s a practical piece that will help you adapt your style for spring, but it’s also a long-lasting essential for any capsule wardrobe. You can find crewneck sweaters in a variety of fabrics, but my favorite (and usually the most expensive) is cashmere. Read more about how to choose and take care of cashmere sweaters in my post on Timeless Investment Pieces for Winter.
Read More: Pre-Fall Capsule Wardrobe
4. White Jeans
Although white is usually reserved for the summer months, a pair of crisp white jeans is an easy way to freshen up your look for spring if you’re willing to break the rules. Try them with an oversized blazer and a baseball cap for a sportier look, or wear them with a pair of ballet flats and a comfy sweater for a more feminine ensemble.
A pair of white full-length, skinny jeans might keep you the warmest during the in-between months, but I prefer a looser, cropped fit that is more comfortable. Choose a style that matches your own preferences and will serve you later during the summer months. If white jeans are not your piece, try a pair of white trousers or ecru, beige, or neutral-colored jeans. You can also opt for a pair of blue or black cropped denim to supplement your winter-to-spring transitional wardrobe.
5. Midi Skirt
A midi skirt is a feminine and practical addition to your winter-to-spring wardrobe. Its length provides coverage on cooler days, and the breezy silhouette allows for comfort as the weather warms up. Choose a midi skirt in a neutral tone for easy pairing with various tops and outerwear. A brightly colored skirt is another variation that will easily liven up your neutral winter pieces. Style it with a crewneck sweater and heeled boots during the winter chill, and switch to a lightweight blouse or tee as spring arrives. The midi skirt effortlessly combines elegance with comfort, making it a go-to piece for the changing seasons.
6. Loafers
You can still get some wear out of your shorter boots during the spring months, but a pair of loafers are much more practical for warmer days. Style them with cropped jeans and your favorite sweater for any effortless spring look. Add on your favorite blazer or wool coat and a pair of thick socks for extra warmth.
You can sport a classic version in black leather or opt for a more spring-appropriate pair in colors like beige, creme or brown and made of materials like suede or even raffia. I personally love these suede loafers in sand styled with an oversized blazer, a ribbed sweater and a pair of straight-leg jeans.
If loafers aren’t your style, try a pair of feminine flats. Ballet flats are making a big comeback this year, so it’s the perfect time to add a pair to your wardrobe.
Read More: Minimalist Spring Capsule Wardrobe
7. Sneakers
A comfortable sneaker is a must-have practical shoe to add to your winter-to-spring wardrobe. Although they’re usually considered casual, you can wear sneakers with everything from cozy sweat sets to flirty, floral dresses. For an easy, cool look, wear them with a pair of tailored trousers and a half-zip pullover. This will definitely be one of my go-to outfits in spring.
New Balance, adidas, and Veja are some of the most popular brands to shop for trendy sneaker styles, but even a simple, logo-free pair of tennis shoes make a great addition to your transitioning closet. A classic white sneaker is just one basic you need in your closet, but if you want to expand your collection, try a more retro-style pair or something neutral-colored.
8. Silk Scarf
Swap out your bulky knitted scarfs for a dainty silk scarf in your winter-to-spring closet. This chic accessory is ideal for spring, but it’s also an easy way to add some color and pattern to your transitional outfits. Tie it around your hair, neck, or even your bag to instantly elevate your look. When I style a silk scarf, I often take inspiration from old Hollywood film stars like Audrey Hepburn with her signature sunglasses and scarf combo in Charade.
One of my favorite places to find unique, inexpensive silk scarves is at vintage stores, but there are also endless options to shop online. Lescarf creates timeless scarves that pair nicely with a neutral-colored wardrobe.
Read More: French Girl Spring Capsule Wardrobe
Although I’ve loved my winter wardrobe this season, I’m ready for the warmer days ahead. These winter-spring outfits are certain to be on rotation in the upcoming months. I’m already on the hunt for a vintage trench coat before spring arrives.
What are your winter-to-spring wardrobe essentials? Let me know in the comments below.
