Spring is in the air… or rather it would be if it weren’t 2 degrees out there! We all know how easy it is to get carried away with aspirational fashions. In this case, we’re not talking about aspiring to be a certain dress size when we choose which clothes to buy, though. Instead, we can be tempted to aspire to warmer, brighter weather by dressing for that season come what may. But the solution isn’t always bundling up in the winter woollens that we’re frankly getting bored of. Instead, let’s look at how layering can provide the solution!
Four Seasons in One Day
The key thing to remember about early Spring is that although the day may start frosty and freezing, by mid afternoon you’ll regret swaddling yourself in that chunky knit! So layering is a practical as well as stylish approach to the Spring. They key here is making sure that your layers can be removed. Try to avoid an outfit only looking right if the layers are all in situ. If the weather really requires knitwear, choose a cardigan that can be opened if it gets too hot, or slung across your shoulders for a preppy feel.
Key Spring Fashions
Include high trend features to make sure that your Spring layers feel current as well as practical. The weather may not be right for the light floral print dress that you really fancy wearing. That’s OK, try layering it over a long sleeve T for a 90s inspired layering vibe. Legs can’t quite manage the chilly temperatures? Layer your skirt over tights in this season’s signature print – hearts! Sheer fabrics, lingerie detailing and oversized tailoring are all key upcoming trends this season. The three work fabulously together to create a layered going out look that won’t give you chills.
Go for Colour
Part of the way that we reflect the seasons in the way we dress is through colour. We drift towards deeper, sumptuous shades in the Winter. However these can leave us feeling a bit flat when Spring is on the horizon. So, add your layers in this season’s dominant shades: candy floss pink and mint green. If pastels aren’t your thing, try electrifying cobalt blue. Layer a coloured shirt and tailored jacket over your trusty Winter base layer (the trusty long sleeve T). This will make you feel more spring like even when the weather forecast didn’t get the memo!
Accessories
The absolute best piece of removable layering is the scarf. Transition from chunky knit scarves to cotton and linen wrap scarves to keep the chill off your neck when you move to the more open necklines of the Spring. Scarves are a wonderful way to add a print to a plain outfit, or to tone in colours and textures when you’re building those layers. This season’s hat trend is the statement hat, so anything from an adorned cowboy hat to an oversized fedora. Don’t forget that a hat will also help you to keep warm, so as long as you can manage your hat-hair when you come to removing the hat, it’s a helpful layer.
Combine Fabrics
Layering with a variety of fabrics isn’t just great for keeping you warm; it adds texture and depth to your final look. While sheer fabrics are on trend this season, they will feel less chilly when layered on top of a thicker lycra base. These fabrics sit wonderfully together and create a streamlined silhouette. Classic Spring fabrics like linen and cotton feel light and seasonal and are a fantastic top layer that will fit into your bag if the sun emerges.
Layering your clothes is ideal for trending finishes like chiffon and crochet. You can use it to experiment with colour and print. It won’t stay cold forever, but while the weather remains unpredictable, layering is the fashion go to that means that you can embrace Spring trends without regretting it!
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.