January has come to an end and spring is (almost) in the air—let’s all breathe a collective sigh of relief. Those of us who live in the UK likely have a couple of dreary months still ahead, but at the very least, we’ll soon be able to ditch the heavy wool coats and winterwear. With this in mind, it’s time to start thinking about which outfits will carry us through the transitional period. February isn’t just the first sign of spring; it’s also a month filled with hot-off-the-press inspiration, thanks to the succession of fashion weeks popping up around the world.
After finding our footing in the first few weeks of the year, now is the perfect time to take notes from the runways and start having fun with fashion. Alas, it's still slightly too early to pack away your knitwear and embrace the dresses and sandal trends that will come out in full force for summer. Instead, prepare for brighter days by opting for clever layers, hints of colour and fresh alternatives to your cold-weather staples.
To give you some ideas, I've rounded up six outfits that successfully toe the line between winter and spring. You know what to do…
1. Maxi Coat + Tailored Trousers + Pointed Boots
Style Notes: Until trench season is officially upon us, we're still wearing the thicker coats that saw us through a chilly winter. Not only are they the perfect layer for unpredictable temperatures, but a longline coat (perhaps in the form of Valeria's white wool) will add some cosiness to winter's final dark days. I especially love this maxi-coat-wide-leg-trouser combination (pictured above), and I'll be copying it immediately.
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The perfect, expensive-looking shade of cream.
Easy to dress up or down.
The kind of heel you can wear all day without having to change to flats.
2. Fair Isle Knit + Loose-Leg Jeans + Mary Janes
Style Notes: After the post-Christmas gloominess of January, I think we could all use a little cheering up. You don't have to wear a big coat with a cosy, happy knit like a Fair Isle, and thanks to brands like Khaite, Loewe, and Loro Piana, they're currently enjoying a very fashionable revival. Pair with this season's trending baggy jeans and a pair of cute Mary Janes (with socks whilst it's cold) and you're good to go.
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A spirit-lifting knit if ever I saw one.
Every wardrobe needs a good pair of straight-leg jeans.
Patent shoes are always eye-catching.
3. Cable Knit + Printed Trousers + Brown Accessories
Style Notes: After statement coats and novelty knits, here's something on the opposite end of the spectrum: top-to-toe neutrals, or "latte dressing", if you will. Beat the between-seasons chill with a simple cable knit paired with printed trousers (right now, check is topping the agenda), and finish with tonal brown accessories like loafers and a tote bag to tie the look together.
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The perfect shade of chocolate brown.
Sometimes simple is the way to go.
I always look to COS for beautiful bags.
4. Blazer + Cardigan + Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: If you've spent the start of the year in your PJs, smarten things up a bit with a dressy maxi skirt layered up with a cardigan and boxy blazer. Still just as comfy but undeniably classier, the fluffy knit will feel like you haven't even left your bed.
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Still cold? Style with a turtleneck underneath for now, then switch it out for a tank top when the weather warms.
This comes in just about every colour you think of. Lucky us.
I can see myself wearing this beauty through spring and summer too.
5. Gilet + Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: February is the ideal time to try out some trends that are new to you. Bomber jackets, denim skirts and ballet flats will continue to be huge this spring, but how about bringing things up to date with a shearling gilet and dark grey or black denim?
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This will make every outfit 10 times cooler.
A vintage-inspired fit with a versatile straight leg.
When brands like The Row, Prada and Tod's embrace a trend, you know it's going the distance.
6. Knit Maxi Dress + Co-Ordinating Coat
Style Notes: Too mild for a weighty jumper and coat but too cold for a tee? Pair a long coat with another easy layer instead. We're ready to test the waters with an easy maxi dress—you can always stash a pair of emergency tights in your bag, just in case.
Shop the Look:
This bold burgundy shade will complement a monochrome outfit nicely.
Knit dresses are my go-to for chic outfits like this.
If you're not ready for a full heel, choose a demi-slingback style instead.
This story was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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