Technically, winter is already on its way out, but it’s the last stretch of chilly, grayish days that can be the hardest to get through. The rock salt in this scaly wound is that stores are already peddling warmer-weather clothes that you very much would like to be wearing, but can’t actually pull off for another month or so. To help make the journey from parkas to bare legs smoother, we put together a few tips on how to realistically transition your wardrobe through March and April.
Step one: Invest in one big essential, like a brand-new handbag, that’ll go a long way in refreshing your look. Cartier’s Guirlande de Cartier bags are just the kind of refined, everyday element to upgrade any outfit, and they’re seasonless enough to wear through spring and beyond. Keep reading for more ways to master the spring countdown, one outfit at a time.
Add One Spring Piece
While the weather works out its last blasts of cold and misery, start slow. You can even keep wearing your late-winter uniform for now — just add something forward-looking on top. A breezy floral dress alludes to spring, but worn over jeans and a turtleneck, doesn’t jump the gun. Come balmier days, wear just the dress, along with the same dependable bag and sneakers.
2. Panthère de Cartier Earrings, available at Cartier; 3. L’Agence Aja Turtleneck, $130 at Saks Fifth Avenue; 4. RE/DONE Originals Stovepipe high-rise straight-leg jean, $250 at Net-a-Porter; 5. Daisy Print Stine Dress, $379 at Whistles; 6. MM6 Maison Margiela Chunky Technical Sneaker, $485 at Need Supply Co.
Brighten Up Your Basics
One way to easily turn over your look is to start with what you’re wearing most now. Gradually swap each piece for an equivalent, but lighter or brighter version. Instead of the heavy black accessories you’ve worn all winter, try switching to sleek brown boots with a hint of color peeking out. Dark wool trousers become woven lime (!) pants; chunky gray sweaters give way to a cream cardigan; and your blanket scarf bows out for a silk one.
1. Hysteria Women’s Lurex Franca Ankle Socks, $18 at Amazon. 2. Ecrou de Cartier Bracelet, available at Cartier; 3. By Far Este croc-effect leather ankle boots, $510 at Net-a-Porter; 4. Madewell Shrunken Ribbed Cardigan, $69.50 at Nordstrom; 5. Moire-Pattern Woven Trousers; $135 at COS; 6. Pierre Louis Mascia Floral Neck Tie Scarf, $85 at Intermix.
Wear Everything New at Once
Rather than waiting to wear your next-season pieces, it’s possible to combine several in a look that makes sense now. Assess what each not-yet-appropriate piece needs to work. Then find its solution in another piece that needs something, too. Get the coverage a skirt is missing with knee-high boots. Ground a pastel blouse with neutrals. Layer two lightweight coats. Finally, bring it all together with a focal point like a red, mini-crossbody.
2. Alex Mill Tie Cuff Balmacaan Jacket, $278 at Nordstrom; 3. Honour Coat, $545 at Reiss; 4. Pink Frill Blouse, $435 at ALEXACHUNG; 5. Rowena Skirt, $395 at Cinq à Sept; 6. rag & bone Aslen Tall Boot, $1,200 at Nordstrom.
This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Stories. The editorial staff of The Cut did not play a role in its creation.