It may come as a surprise to you that layering is key to spring dressing, but I’m here to tell you it’s true. And since spring is right around the corner, I’m showing you some outfit formulas that will combat the cold-warm transitional weather. Let’s face it: March and April are welcome months, but their weather’s unpredictability can be hard to work with when you want to look good for class but you also want to dress sensibly for the fluctuating temperatures of the season. But don’t worry—saving yourself from any weather-induced misery is as easy as throwing on a few strategically chosen layers. From dresses over windbreakers to coats over jackets, these spring layering ideas will save you—no matter the forecast.
Longline Coat + Casual Jacket + White T-Shirt
Give the jacket you left behind last spring new life by layering it under a longer coat. To go full maximalist, pair your mix of textures with patent leather pants and the sneakers of the season.
Get this look: Pull&Bear Check Print Trench ($105), Urban Outfitters Utility Jacket ($79), Mango Vinyl Cuff Pants ($88)
Camel Coat + Denim Jacket + Striped Top
We all know the struggle of fluctuating temperatures, but how do you deal with it when the weather is completely different by mid-afternoon? Instead of going with one big coat, try this spring layering ideas. Match lightweight outerwear with a short-sleeved tee for a look that you can shed when the sun comes out.
Get this look: ASOS Denim Girlfriend Jacket in Midwash Blue ($64), ASOS Classic Trench Coat ($87), Topshop Moto Let Hem Leigh Jeans ($70)
Corduroy Dress + Sporty Windbreaker + Black Mock Neck
To break out that dress you never thought you could wear in cold weather, mix it with your favorite thrift store finds. Make this spring layering idea rain-proof by adding a windbreaker under your statement item along with a basic mock neck beneath the layers.
Get this look: Empyre Plum Corduroy Overall Dress ($30), Silence + Noise Macy Ribbed Knit Turtleneck Sweater ($39), Adidas Originals Cropped Hoodie ($60)
Simple Tank + Graphic Tee + Leopard-Print Coat
Faux-fur outerwear is an easy way to layer up and still make a statement. Try one over a simple jeans-and-T-shirt outfit for a sassy take on a casual look that can be easily transitioned into warmer weather.
Get this look: Vera Moda Longline Leopard Print Jacket ($87), Levi’s The Perfect Tee ($25), Silence + Noise Sky Satin Cami ($39)
Puffer Coat + Sweater Dress + White Turtleneck
Waiting for warmer weather to start wearing your favorite frocks again? There’s plenty of tricks for wearing them when there’s still a chill in the air. A long-sleeve turtleneck pairs perfectly with an ankle-length sweater dress, and heavy boots and a puffer coat on top make it cold-weather appropriate for when spring just refuses to arrive.
Get this look: ASOS Midi Cami Slip Dress ($29), H&M Ribbed Turtleneck in Gray Melange ($15), Bershka Vinyl Pocket Detail Jacket ($28)
Bold Outerwear + Printed Blouse + Solid Turtleneck
For a grown-up take on layers, add a patterned button-down over a warm turtleneck. A bold blue coat adds the springy pop of color you need to get ready for the season ahead.
Get this look: Urban Outfitters Contrast Stitch Button-Up ($59), Miss Selfridge Tailored Coat ($94)
What’s your go-to style when layering clothes? Show us your #OOTD on Instagram, and don’t forget to tag @cfashionista.
Opening image by @kindakaili.
This article was originally published on an earlier date and has since been updated.
