How To Transition Your Wardrobe From Winter To Spring

I’m so ready for spring this year- this winter has been extra cold! I’m starting to think about what to wear when it’s almost spring but still feels like winter. But transitioning between winter and spring wardrobes is always tricky. The shift from freezing temps to milder days never feels seamless. You’re ready to swap heavy winter fabrics and dark colors for lighter knits and airy accessories, but with spring so close, it can still seem so far away.

Luckily, there are a few styling tricks that always work for this in-between season. If you’re wondering how to make the winter to spring wardrobe transition feel effortless, you’re in the right place. These tips will help you stay warm while looking fresh and seasonally appropriate.

How To Transition Your Wardrobe From Winter To Spring

Transitional Layering

While the calendar may say it’s spring, the weather may still feel like winter. So how do you dress for spring when it’s still cold out? Layers! Thoughtful layering is essential for solving the problem of how to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring. Mornings are usually chiller than the afternoon so being able to layer up and down is key for staying comfortable.

Instead of wearing heavy winter fabrics, layer lighter ones. This gives you a fresh spring feeling without feeling bulky, and while staying warm. Start with a thin, breathable base layer, like a long-sleeve t-shirt or button-up shirt, followed by a versatile middle layer like a light-weight sweater (love a pop of collar peaking out from under a sweater!) or a sweater vest. Finally, top it off with a classic trench coat or a blazer for structure and warmth without the too much extra weight. The key is to use pieces that can be easily added or removed, so you stay comfortable as temperatures change.

Shift Your Color Palette

Transitioning from winter and spring seasons isn’t just about swapping heavy coats for lighter layers, it’s also about shifting your wardrobe color palette. Instead of an abrupt switch from deep winter tones to bright spring hues, ease into the change with color combinations that feel natural.

For example, start introducing lighter neutrals like beige, ivory, and camel, and pastels to wear alongside deeper tones. Great early spring pairings like navy and ivory, or camel and pastels always work. To slowly ease into spring, choose more muted spring shades like rose instead of bright pink (like this rose cardigan), or sage green instead of Kelly green. While these colors are light, they don’t feel too summery.

It’s also the time to start incorporating spring colors into your accessories. A powder pink scarf or light blue loafers can lighten up a darker outfit without having to fully commit to color. I’m wearing cognac accessories with this pink outfit (shoes here and bag here). The darker accessories keep the overall look grounded and transition weather appropriate. Style tip– cognac accessories are wearable in every season and with every color!

Essential Wardrobe Pieces to Ease the Transition

Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a must-have for spring’s unpredictable weather. It provides enough warmth when temperatures drop but is lightweight enough to wear during milder days. Choosing neutral tones keeps it timeless, and makes it easy to pair with almost anything. It’s a versatile top layer for both casual and more polished outfits.

My favorite trench coat (one that’s also petite-friendly) is the Scott trench which I have in 2 colors. It’s a medium weight fabric so it keeps you warm, has a classic shape, and can easily be dressed up or down. The length is perfect for petites- not too short and not too long. If you love being a little “extra”, this trench coat with its pleated details is another stunning option!

Light weight Sweaters

Lightweight sweaters are the perfect mid-layer during transitional weather. They’re breathable and light, so layering over a tee or under a blazer or coat, helps keep you warm but not stuffy. Opt for spring-inspired pastels or neutrals to balance out the darker winter tones.

While lightweight cashmere knits (like this turtleneck which is a great layering piece under a blazer), are great for transition from winter to spring, now is the time to start wearing your cotton sweaters for coverage without heat. A few of my favorites are this fisherman style sweater, this cotton/wool blend, and this striped cotton sweater.

Light Blazers

A tailored blazer can be your best friend when transitioning between seasons. It allows for layering over lighter tops when the temperatures drop. And is versatile enough to pair with jeans or trousers for a business casual office look, or effortless everyday outfit. Blazers can be styled more formally with matching pants, but also make for great laid-back looks with jeans.

To help keep your outfits more spring-like, choose lighter colors like this camel blazer, beige, ivory, and blues. These colors will match most of your wardrobe since they set a neutral balancer against darker colors and lighter tones.

Cotton Cardigans or Lady Jackets

Cardigans and my favorite- lady jackets, have become timeless wardrobe essentials. Dare I say that they could replace the blazer as a more feminine option to a mid-layer? Swap winter fabrics for lighter pieces. While it still may be chilly, you can start to swap out cashmere pieces for lighter knits like cotton. A must for creating classic spring transition outfits.

Denim Jackets

A timeless denim jacket is perfect for layering during the transition between seasons. It adds a casual touch to dresses, skirts, and trousers, creating that laid-back, cool-girl vibe. Look for one that’s not too heavy, preferably in a light rinse, so it feels fresh and spring-ready.

Cropped Pants and Jeans

The transition from winter to spring is a great time to start wearing cropped pants and jeans. When it’s not too cold to show some ankle, cropped styles will give you a lighter spring feel. For days when showing a little ankle is bearable, choose loafers or ballet flats with a lightweight sweater for a casual chic look.

Midi skirts

A midi skirt gives you the best of both worlds: coverage for cooler days and breathability for warmer ones. Opt for floral or muted tones to introduce subtle spring vibes. A skirt just feels like spring! To keep things warm on chilly transitional days, pair your midi skirt with a lightweight sweater. I love this featherweight mockneck option for a super light yet warm base layer. For a traditional scoop neck, this white knit is also a great option for layering.

Depending on how cold it is, opt for ankle boots for milder days, and knee high boots for added coverage and warmth. Ballet flats, Mary Janes, and heels give off more spring-like vibes so choose to wear those as the weather starts to warm up.

Transitional Weather Shoes: Loafers

Loafers are a great alternative to boots as the weather shifts. They are comfortable yet chic, and can be worn with jeans, skirts, or dresses. Plus they still provide enough coverage to keep your feet warm. Loafers, especially in lighter neutrals or color, always bring spring vibes. I absolutely love wearing loafers in transitional weather! If your feet get chilly, don’t be afraid to wear socks with loafers. My favorite ankle socks to wear with loafers are these ruffle trim socks, and this minimal chic pair. Both look great with cropped jeans! If you love embroidery, take a look at these embroidered loafers (take 20% off with code THEFASHIONHOUSEMOM).

Ankle boots

Ankle boots are essential to ward off the last winter chill. Go for a classic, low-heeled design that will carry you through the remaining colder months while still being breathable enough for those slightly warmer days. Look for neutral tones like black, beige, or brown to get you the most wear. I love a lighter neutral, like this tan pair of boots, for making the shift from winter to spring outfits more seamless. But you can’t go wrong with this season’s trending color- chocolate brown! Take 15% 0ff your first purchase of these shoes with SF-TARA-15.

Ballet Shoes

Ballet shoes are a timeless wardrobe staple that is always in style. This season we are already seeing an early spring shoe trend- the ballet pumps! I have the new Ada ballet pumps and I love them! They are the perfect neutral shoe to take you through every season. Plus they are buttery soft and comfortable. They give just a little lift with the 1.25 inch heel. These are great for wearing with pants that are just a touch too long.

Another option to help ease your transition from winter to spring are suede shoes like these olive suede ballet pumps. Suede is a great fabric to help bridge the transition from heavy textures and fabrics, to light and airy. No matter which ones you choose, ballet pumps are sure to be a spring staple!

Transitional Accessories For Spring

It’s also a great idea to transition your accessories. Darker suede bags and shoes and be swapped for lighter tones. You can even start to bring out your straw bags. The key with making straw bags work for cooler weather, is choosing one with some leather on it, like this one with the leather handle. It helps to bridge the gap between heavier winter textures, and lighter spring ones.  Also, swap out heavy wool scarves for lightweight cashmere pieces, or silk. And don’t forget- a sweater layered over your shoulders, like this striped sweater, can also be considered a stylish accessory!

What To Wear Between Winter And Spring

The Perfect Outfit for a 50-Degree Day

For a 50-degree day, this outfit is the perfect mix of light layers. This pastel blue fisherman-style sweater is cozy without being too warm, and ivory jeans bring in a light, spring feel. Throw on a denim jacket for a casual but warm outer layer, and finish the look with ankle boots. The overall vibe is laid-back yet polished, making it easy to dress up or down depending on your plans. It’s an easy go-to for a casual day out, brunch with friends, or running errands while still looking put together.

The Chic Way to Wear a Cropped Trench and Cropped Pants

A cropped trench coat is a fun and stylish way to add a light layer, and it works well for both petites and taller women. While pairing it with full-length pants is effortlessly chic, cropped pants make the outfit feel even more spring-ready. The gingham lining on this trench adds a playful touch- such a perfect little spring bonus! For a fun take on pattern play, pair it with a striped top in a similar tone. This look is perfect for a day of shopping, or a casual lunch when you want to feel put together without trying too hard. I’m also wearing these pointed toe ballet flats which fit true to size.

Simple & Timeless Winter to Spring Transition: Wool Pants and Cardigan

This outfit is perfect for those tricky winter-to-spring days. The wool pants give just enough warmth to transition between seasons, while still being light enough to carry you into warmer weather. The blue cardigan (see it in ivory here) offers a pop of color, making it a great layer without being too heavy. Cognac accessories tie everything together, adding a touch of refined warmth. It’s a simple, timeless look that’s both practical and stylish.

Trench Coat and Breton Stripes: A Timeless Outfit for Late Winter

A trench coat and Breton stripes are a timeless outfit combination. It’s that effortless French-inspired style that always looks put together. The stripes add a fresh spring touch, while the trench gives you that perfect light layer for in-between weather. Adding feminine style shoes like these Mary Janes, gives this an elevated and polished look while still being very casual. Perfect for a coffee run, a day of errands, or a laid-back brunch with friends.

How to Style a Camel Blazer For Early Spring

A light camel blazer is perfect for transitioning into early spring. It adds structure without feeling heavy, and the neutral tone pairs with just about anything. Layer it over a striped tee for a relaxed vibe, and pair with cropped jeans to keep things fresh for the season. Pointed-toe ballet flats add a feminine touch while keeping you comfortable and stylish. This outfit is ideal for a coffee date, casual workdays, or lunch with friends. Easy to wear, but still chic.

Effortless Outfit Formula: Light Sweaters and Midi Skirts

The effortless outfit formula that always works is pairing a soft knit sweater with a midi skirt and ankle boots. Midi skirts work all-year-round, while ankle boots provide warmth without feeling too heavy for the transition season. This simple yet polished look works for everything from casual days to dinner out—easy to wear, but always looking put together.

I wear a size 37 in this boot style (take 15% 0ff your first purchase with SF-TARA-15).

Why a Midi Skirt and Knee-High Boots Are Perfect for Late Winter

A midi skirt and knee-high boots are a great combination for late winter because they offer both warmth and lightness. The boots provide full coverage and extra warmth for your legs, while the midi skirt keeps the look stylish yet breathable. Layering a trench coat over top gives you additional warmth without feeling too heavy, making this outfit great for days when you need to stay cozy but still want to feel light.

Early Spring Weather Outfit for Work

Pairing a classic cardigan or lady jacket with tailored pants is a great spring transition outfit for work. Depending on the weather, you can wear ankle boots or these loafers (20% off with code THEFASHIONHOUSEMOM) to complete the look. For more casual style, swap out the pants for jeans and ballet flats for an elevated laid-back look. Don’t forget to add the trench coat as an extra layer if needed!

Classic Stripes and Ivory Pants: A Fresh Take on Transitional Dressing

For a fresh take on transitional dressing, pair a striped tee with a light sweater casually tied over your shoulders. It gives you extra coverage while adding an effortless, laid-back vibe. If it gets chilly, simply slip the sweater on for more warmth. Ivory pants keep the outfit light, and a straw bag adds a touch of spring. It’s a simple yet chic solution for how to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring. Don’t be afraid to try stripes on stripes!

Best Way to Store Winter Clothes

One often overlooked step in transitioning your wardrobe from winter to spring is storage!

• Clean before storing! Any stains will set over time and be harder to remove if you leave them for the next season.
• Use garment bags to store delicate sweaters and coats. Try one like this cotton bag– it’s breathable yet will protect from dust and moths.
• Add cedar or lavender sachet bags to storage bins, closets, and drawers.
• Use padded hangers for heavy coats to help keep their shape.

Shop These Timeless and Classic Winter to Spring Transition Pieces

Swipe left if you are on your phone to view them all:

Let me know in the comments section below, which transition piece is your favorite, or which one you still need to get!