Recent brutal temperatures haven’t stopped stores from filling with airy dresses, fluttery tops, colorful prints and other stylish spring treats.
It’s a cruel twist of fate that all these pieces seem just out of reach when there’s still snow on the ground. But don’t let that flowery frock mock you—brighten your mood and your closet by incorporating a few spring pieces into your winter wardrobe now.
Skirts
It’s not too early to dust off spring skirts and dresses—just wear them with tights, boots and a sweater while the days are still chilly.
Amhara Skirt, $68, Anthropologie
Brights
Snowy, gray February days leave us craving color, and this spring, there will be no lack of options. Oranges and other earthy tones will be particularly hot, so get in on the action now with a kimono-inspired piece, another hot trend for 2011.
2 Color Knit Hooded Jacket, $39, Akira
Layering
Pick up something preppy to don over warm weather dresses and shirts. For an even springier feel, wear with a bright tee or scarf, or bravely mix prints and pair your cardy with a floral top.
Cashmere Stripe V-Neck Cardigan, $168, J. Crew
Denim
It’s finally time to give your skinnies a break. We’ll see a lot of ‘70’s inspired fashion this spring, including flared and wide leg jeans. You can go for major flare if you like, but for something subtler that still evokes the trend, try a trouser fit.
Seven for All Mankind Ginger Wide Leg Stretch Denim Pants, $155, Nordstrom
Bangles
Spice up your dark winter outfits with a colorful bangle or two, the brighter the better.
Bangles, $68-$78, Anthropologie
Florals
Nothing says spring like pretty blooms. You’ll find floral patterns on everything from sheer tops to gauzy scarves in the coming months, making for feminine, ethereal looks.
Raw Edge Floral Headscarf, $20, Urban Outfitters
First Lady Fashion
Michele Obama has proven herself the master of mixing high and low fashion, as she demonstrated yet again at a recent appearance on the Today show. She wore a modified version of this H&M dress, which we love for its snazzy polka dots and coral belt that adds a friendly burst of color. Wear it now with tights, booties and a cardigan or leather jacket, then go barelegged once the temperatures start to climb.
Dress, $34.95, H&M