9 Timeless Transitional Pieces That Every Woman Needs In Her Wardrobe
These early days of spring are some of the most unpredictable when it comes to the weather forecast—and, thus, your outfits can be equally unpredictable. It’s all too common for temps to rise to the 70s one day and plummet to the 30s the next. For this reason, having an arsenal of items in your closet that will layer easily, keep you warm or cool you off when needed, and can be dressed up or down is of upmost sartorial importance. If you’re stumped over what to wear during this transitional time, let your shopping list start here.
Scroll down to see what the classic, always in style, winter-to-spring transitional pieces are, and to shop our favorite versions of each!
A chambray shirt usually has some weight to it, making it a better transitional option than a lightweight oxford. Roll up the sleeves on warmer days, and layer under a sweater when it’s cooler.
MiH Jeans The Loose Denim Shirt ($225) in Blue ChambrayShop more chambray shirts.
If you’re like us, you have the strong urge to wear pretty dresses as soon as spring arrives, but the thought of freezing all day makes it much less appealing. So keep the sleeves long for now and layer on a cardigan or oversized denim jacket.
Reformation Freddy Dress ($198) in TrinketShop more long sleeve dresses.
You’re probably desperate to get out of the heavy winter boots right about now, but it���s not quite warm enough to rock your summery sandals, so compromise with a pair of polish pointed-toe flats.
Aquazzura Christy Lace-Up Flats ($675) in BlackShop more pointed-toe flats.
Calling a trench coat timeless isn’t exactly revolutionary, but when it comes to transitional dressing, no cover-up compares in terms of weight, versatility, and polish.
REISS Radzi Trench Coat ($465) in Tiramisu
Shop the Bloomingdale’s Friends and Family sale now through March 29, for 25 percent off with code FRIENDS!Shop more trench coats.
Anything goes when it comes to this classic! The versatile, season-less staple will pair perfectly with everything from flared jeans and mules, to an office-ready pencil skirt, to off-duty-ready cut-off shorts and a straw hat.
Petit Bateau Meliana Long Sleeve Top ($108) in Coquille/AbysseShop more striped shirts.
A cozy cardigan in a spring-friendly hue will keep you toasty on cool days, without giving off dead-of-winter vibes.
ASOS Longline Cardigan With Patch Pockets ($98) in Nude PinkShop more cardigans.
Cropped trousers work well for women of all heights, and although it may still be too chilly for skirts and shorts, it’s nice to show a little ankle after months of winter.
Everlane The Slouchy Trousers ($120) in NavyShop more cropped trousers.
It’s a happy coincidence that military is a major trend for S/S 15, but over the past few years, the utility jacket has become a staple. We think it looks coolest when paired with feminine pieces.
MANGO Military-Style Jacket ($100) in Beige/KhakiShop more utility jackets.
Want to ward off a slight chill but a heavy wool scarf is out of the question? Tie a pretty silk scarf around your neck and go! It just so happens that this is a major trend at the moment, but we have a hunch that this classy accessory is much more than just a passing trend.
Zara Special Edition Silk Scarf ($80)Shop more silk scarves.What are your wardrobe go-tos to make the winter-to-spring transition? Tell us in the comments below!
Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.
-
I Just Found the Chicest Sweaters, Coats, and Boots From Nordstrom's Black Friday Sale—Enjoy
These finds will sell out by December 1.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
31 Maxi Coats From Shopbop, COS, and Mango That Have My Undivided Attention
Floor-sweeping styles only.
By Caitlin Burnett
-
Wearing Cropped Jeans With This Type of Shoe Keeps Them From Looking Dated
You probably already own them.
By Allyson Payer
-
The Sneaker Color Trend Everyone With Expensive Taste Is Buying
Including Lily Collins.
By Allyson Payer
-
I Love the Sweaters at Zara, COS, J.Crew, Vince, and Nordstrom—31 That Are Gorgeous
New staples ahead.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
7 Fresh Winter Outfits to Wear With All of Your White T-Shirts
Classic.
By Natalie Cantell
-
J.Lo Wore the Elegant Trend That Makes Every Outfit Look Like It Came From an Audrey Hepburn Movie
From Charade to Breakfast at Tiffany's.
By Eliza Huber
-
The Rich-Looking Sneaker Trend That's Set to Dominate in 2025
Wealth's the word.
By Anna LaPlaca