As spring makes its lovely way into the year, it’s time to revive and transition your closet for the next season of its life. Don’t hit snooze — get an early start and let your style flower along with the warming weather. So read on for a head-to-toe guide on how to trade all that heavy winter wear for some fresh spring staples.
Light Layers
Sweater weather’s not quite over, so don’t stow away your favorite knits just yet. Instead, stick to lighter knitwear and long-sleeve shirts that you can fit neatly under a lightweight jacket. Match a clunky cable-knit with a skirt, or wear a cardigan over a sundress. You might also try wearing a turtleneck under a pinafore or gingham frock for some retro chic.
Statement Coats

Out with overcoats and in with lighter styles. Keep warm yet sprightly in a teddy jacket or a penny lane coat. Trench coats in pastel shades are also a perennial favorite for a clean and sophisticated look to transition your closet. And for the risk-takers, consider a patent leather or vinyl raincoat. This slick modern classic easily elevates any casual outfit, adding a glossy glamor for street-style stars in the making.
Tailored Trousers
Start your spring off right with a smart pair of cropped trousers, sailor pants, or culottes. These sharp styles are just right for brisk days, whether in daring patterns or muted palettes. Transition your closet by switching it up with a maxi skirt in soft pleats or pretty flounces, worn with open toe boots or clunky mules.
Tip-Top Socks
Farewell to slogging through the snow! Warmer days mean it’s the right time to finally slide into a pair of flats. Fear not if it’s still a little nippy out — there are plenty of ways to keep your toes toasty yet stylish. Complement otherwise sedate outfits with some colorful footwear to introduce a spring in your step. Kick on some sneakers in multi-colored or super-sized styles, snazzy loafers, or embellished heels. And why not match those heels with luxe socks in velvet or floral silk? Or rock some fun tights in zany patterns or jeweled hues?
Frills and Trimmings
Accessorize for rosy days with flourishes of color and pizzazz. Protect your eyes from increasingly sunny days with warm-tinted sunglasses, now trending in square or over-size frames. Try out the limitless range of styles you can achieve with a bandanna or silk scarf: wear it wrapped around your head, knotted neatly at the neck, or slung about your waist. And don’t forget to add a little sparkle. Pull together outfits with chunky necklaces, colorful statement earrings, or a modish chain-link belt.
Trendy Totes
Clear out all your winter clutter and grab yourself a new bag for the spring. The weather’s right for flirty colors, soft-hued leather, and woven, natural fibers like wicker, rattan, raffia, and straw. Hop on the latest handbag trend and treat yourself to a cute croissant purse. Pick a drawstring or sling-style bag to take to a picnic at the park or a perfect spring day in the city.