Preparing for the Spring Transition

It may not seem like it, but spring is right around the corner! Sure, it may seem like it will never stop snowing and that we are going to have winter forever. But eventually it will be time to start thinking spring. From a wardrobe stylist’s standpoint, being prepared is always going to give you style success. Why not start planning ahead so you can be completely ready for spring, once it arrives!

One of the most common questions I receive from clients is, “What do we do when we are sick of winter clothes but it isn’t warm enough for spring clothes?” Ah, yes, that weird in-between period of three or four weeks that have all of us confused is called “spring transition.” This time period can be a tough problem to tackle—unless you have my help! The most important thing is to stock your closet with items that are versatile and classic enough that they can be worn in many seasons and not just one. Before purchasing something new, you should ask yourself these three questions.

1. Is this item something I am going to wear once or do I have multiple occasions that I can wear this?

2. Is this item going to function in my daily life?

3. Look at the quality of the item. Is it going to last you more than one season with normal wear?

Then you’ll be prepared for that awkward time period by stocking your closet with these key pieces for 2019!

The Army or Utility Jacket
If you find one of these jackets, make sure it is oversized enough that you can layer items underneath. The lighter-weight canvas fabric makes this one of my number one spring transitional pieces. Pair it with a thinner sweater or turtleneck, jeans and a bootie for right now. When it gets warmer, throw it on over your favorite T-shirt and leggings with sneakers and you are set for spring!

That “Non-Skinny” Denim
Skinny jeans aren’t going anywhere, but this year it’s time to add a little variety to your denim wardrobe. Look for the non-skinny jean! Styles such as straight leg, boot cut, cropped flare and vintage cut are all styles that we can buy now, wear now plus wear later. My two favorite styles are the boot cut and the cropped flare. Both styles can be worn now with a pointed-toe bootie for a super-sleek look and then transitioned into spring with a wedge or open-toe sandal. Plus, with the right fit, both of these styles will make your legs look super long!

The Closed-Toe Mule
One of my favorite styles of shoes is the star this spring. The closed-toe mule says, “I want to wear comfortable shoes and be stylish as well.” Most mules have a nice, thick block heel for comfort, and because of the back cutout, the style is super sleek. It’s perfect to wear with denim and pants right now or to transition and wear with dresses and skirts when the temperature warms up! Look to purchase this item in a neutral color or print such as black, nude or brown. ■

Written by: Abby Wood

Abby Wood is a wardrobe stylist and style blogger in Kansas City, and her education in design plus retail experience make her an expert in fit, fabric, style and trends. Her professional experience in fashion began with an apprenticeship with a bridal designer, shifted to creating and showing her  own line, moving up to management and training at a retail level and now professional styling as an independent consultant. Abby loves to help individuals develop and evolve their own sense of style.
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