Transitional dressing: The pieces and trends that work now and later
It’s a tricky time of the year: Chilly temps still dominate weather reports, but we can see spring on the horizon. And finding the right pieces to combine to create fresh looks that work now and transition into the next season is tough. Luckily, with a few key basics and smart styling tips, you’ll be on-trend and in-season.
Cashmere cardigans and light-knit sweaters are must-haves, and can work with a turtleneck in a contrasting color right now, but when the temperatures begin to creep up next month, a blouse in a bright hue or an inexpensive t-shirt serves as the ideal companion for your cardigan or sweater.
Stop by vintage and thrift stores for ’60s-inspired geometric tops, tunics and blouses. Now, they work well under a blazer and worn with pants or a pencil skirt; but later, they beg to be worn with denim cutoff shorts and cropped pants.
Head to your favorite shoe store (think Steve Madden, Bakers and Aldo-we’re in a recession, after all!), and stock up on strappy sandals and platform pumps. To keep you warm, pair them with colored or black opaque tights and socks, and when it heats up, you can ditch the foot coverage and wear them bare.
To stay stylish on a budget, look no further than to Claire’s, Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe for all the current jewelry trends that will carry you into spring. Take inspiration from the runway and pair grungy chains with feminine pearls over a classic t-shirt. Waist-whittling wide belts are still essentials in every fashionistas’ wardrobe so grab a couple to infuse your blah basics. And don’t forget about rings, bracelets (the bigger the better!) and scarves that show off your personality, without breaking the bank.
Many of these trends can be bought at various price points, so don’t be afraid to research and compare prices. Exchange pieces with your girlfriends to create new looks and step outside the box to update your personal style!
For more ideas on the current trends and to see what’s hot for spring, check out JAYE magazine (www.jayemag.com), a college women’s fashion magazine founded and edited by Texas A&M University-Commerce senior journalism major Michael Jones.