The art of transition
Classic and versatile, a trench coat can handle whatever March has to offer.
So it's finally (barely) March, and the Spring clothes are out in full force. The rest of us have finally caught up to the retailers, and we're itching to purchase and wear them (unlike January). The problem is that with March comes this lion/lamb business. We could be wading through the snow straight through Easter, or we could be in sandals before St. Patrick's Day.
The key to surviving and enjoying the early spring months is transitional dressing. Here are three things that I think everyone should have to bridge the gap from Winter to Spring:
A Trench Coat
I'm not sure there's anything more classic or versatile than a trench. On a sunny, chilly-but-not-freezing day, a trench is perfect with a scarf and gloves. Also, the trench adds a little sophistication to any outfit for women and men. The one pictured here, was $200 at Macy's Colonie Center. The price is on the steep side, but it's an investment (There are, of course, cheaper alternatives of comparable quality).
Lightweight Sweaters
People around here have an irrational fear of warm(ish) weather sweaters. This is the era of summer cashmere, so a cotton sweater definitely won't hurt. When it's still cool, a cotton sweater of any style can be layered with a long sleeved tee, a turtle-neck, or your run-of-the mill oxford-style shirt. Once the weather really beings to warm up, it'll keep you warm in the arctic temperatures of the office air conditioning. I found this heavy cotton cardigan at The Gap for $59.50.
Color
It's cliche, but people do associate color with spring. Winter colors tend to be soft or muted, so turning it up a notch will really add a little something to a spring wardrobe. You don't have to look like an easter egg, but a couple of vibrant t-shirts can go a long way (like, into August). Old Navy has a whole slew in varying styles for $12.50.
On the bottom I think it really depends on the person. I stay away from skirts, cropped pants and definitely shorts until the temp really starts to climb. But I've seen plenty of guys in shorts, and girls in skirts without tights this winter, it really depends on your threshold for cool weather. So, this isn't rocket science, but too many of us have found ourselves with new clothes we couldn't wear for a month or two. Considering these options should, at the very least, mitigate the situation.
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Comments
On the top, one of the easiest transition pieces are hats. And yes, they CAN be worn by everyone. Trilbys are certainly a favorite of mine for both men and women. Try one. It's like sunglass shopping-we all have a perfect fit. And heaven knows in precipitation-prone Albany, it's needed for this ambi-season.
Good mention of the trench, although my favorite spot for either The Original Classic or The Funky Version has GOT to be H & M. Guys, gals, kiddies are all welcome to choose which they prefer.
And one last mention: Instead of focusing on the cut of the bottom, how about featuring denim? The denim of May can certainly be worn now. If it's light, it's still long, you can still wear your winter boots, and bring out that new trench for cover. The denim hue that's popping up the most on spring boards has got to be the deepened, darkened indigo threads. With the occasional grey or white-wash. MINUS any crazy embellishments.
keep the style up :)
... said silhouette on Mar 5, 2008 at 11:49 PM | link