I love this time of year. I’m so aware that I say that every time a new season rolls around but it’s true. When you step out in the morning and something has shifted. The air is different, the smells are different and there’s a distinct feeling of relief. For me, that was this week. I know, I know, it’s only February and talking about spring fashion feels a little premature when we’re still chiselling ice off of our windscreens before work. But when temperatures hit a balmy 8 degrees and the sun still clung on at 5.30 pm, you can hardly blame me for being optimistic!
Throughout the year I’m adamant that winter is my favourite time of year for fashion. With so many layers, textures and don’t even get me started on the boots, to play with there just seems like there’s more going on sartorially. Spring I find tricky. As Brits we do that thing where we get over-excited at the sight of the sun and whip out the flip flops and tees faster than you can say ‘windchill’. Summer, for me is when my style takes on a really casual, grown-up bohemian vibe and autumn is boots (obvs), thick jackets and cosy scarfs.
But spring is…nope nothing springs to mind other than florals which is as predictable as Miranda Priestly’s famous quote “Florals. For spring. Groundbreaking.” So what to do? While I slowly start compiling some spring/summer inspiration boards on Instagram as the new collections begin to surface, I find myself second guessing what to wear when the weather is so unpredictable. I figure it’s a tale of two halves and can be conquered by doing this…
KEEP SOMETHING WARM
I’m someone that really feels the cold. I know that makes me sound like an OAP but it’s true. With that in mind, spring fashion has to revolve around something cosy. Not everything. Just something. For me, it’s this Amour jumper from Topshop. Knitted, slightly oversized and with sleeves long and stretchy enough for me to tuck my hands into if they’re not holding a cup of steaming tea for more than a minute. And because I’m toasty up top, I can bare an ankle (or two preferably!) without freezing my butt off.
EMBRACE THE PRINT
It doesn’t have to be floral, in fact, best save the blooms for when you’re sure it’s spring. In the meantime, play with a different print – light coloured stripes, polka dots or, in this case, checks. These Mango trousers are just the right amount of print without being too in-your-face. I’m determined to work some more ‘slacks’ into my wardrobe this season because they have the brilliant ability to look chic with trainers and dressed up with heels.
LAYER UP LIGHT
You know I said I loved layers in winter? Spring fashion is also a great opportunity to be prepared for all temperatures. At this time of year, a slogan tee can be teamed with a denim shirt over the top followed by a trench coat making it a multifaceted outfit. And who doesn’t love a multi-tasker?! When the weather’s doing its own thing you you’re stuck on an outfit, you can wear the wintery thing you own and team it with a lightweight spring jacket and you will have an outfit that’s perfect for the time of year.
