Michigan has so much to offer: beautiful summers, stunning autumns, loads of freshwater. But one challenge of the Great Lakes state is making your wardrobe work at the end of winter when spring is in the air. “In like a lion, out a lamb,” some say about the month of March, our most volatile time of year. How are you supposed to look fabulous when the temperature changes more frequently than your mood?
We’ve devised a few steps that can help you evolve from snow queen to spring seductress without letting your salty boots get in the way.
Spring Colors in Winter Fabrics
Springtime sunshine (or more likely, flurries) is just begging for vibrant pastels on hearty fabrics. Think mint green on a cable knit sweater, lavender on cozy flannel or crushed velvet in pale pink (hello, ‘90s!). The mix of light colors with heavier fabrics is the perfect transitional combination to keep you warm and comfortable without looking like you’re still in your fall wardrobe.
Tights with Flats
Arguably one of the best fashion items churned out by the last decade, the flat has taken fashion to new heights (pun intended!). Remember when women could choose either stilettos or sneakers to face the world? Let’s say a collective 
“GOODBYE!” to those days of yore, and a booming “HELLO!” to mixing flats with tights to get us through late winter.
The beauty of this fashion statement is that it’s youthful and interesting while still being professional and polished. Don’t think you have to stick with black tights either. Think metallic pointy-toe shoes with navy tights, or a strappy leopard flat with cocoa-hued nylons. If you stick to classic colors and simple silhouettes, your available combinations will multiply before your eyes.
Which leads us to our next tip…
Summer Dresses
If you’re into the idea of tights with flats, you’ve just opened up a whole new late-winter-early-spring fashion option – your summer dresses! All those sundresses you’ve been hiding away for the last several months can finally reappear. Tights and a cardigan can transform these garments into a reconstructed version of their former summer selves. Florals and bright colors are such a welcome relief in the month of March, and you’ve just instantly expanded your wardrobe options.
Layers on Layers on Layers
None of the ideas we’ve mentioned would make sense without the most classic of all spring trends – layering! The good thing about late winters is that the promise of warmer weather is always around the corner. With layering, you’ll be ready for any temp, but you’ll also be able to play with colors and textures since you’re wearing more clothes. Think neutral tanks under bright flannel, long-sleeved tees under a floral summer dress, black leggings and tunic with a chunky duster, print sweaters with delicate scarves.
Make Your Own Rules
This time of year can be even more versatile than the others since there are no rules! Wear that summer dress, rock your black sweater, keep those little suede booties on hand. Mix and match and layer and challenge what the standard rules are for early spring fashion. Clothing should be playful, comfortable and empowering. So make your own rules – we’ve got your back (literally and figuratively!).
leave a comment