How to Dress for Fake Spring: 12 Outfits for Surviving the Transition

Congratulations: You’ve made it through the worst of winter. With spring almost here, the days are slowly but surely getting longer, warmer temperatures are arriving, and we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. But while real spring is on the horizon, we still have to muddle through the time of year when the weather can't seem to make up its mind between warm, sunny afternoons and a sudden snowstorm. It can be frustrating to think it's finally time to pull out your spring dresses only to get snow or rain, but the key to dressing for this in-between season is plenty of layering: Think dresses with cardigans, tights under skirts and shorts, and a good statement coat under your favorite new piece. If you're looking for ways to get creative while dressing for "fake spring" weather, we've rounded up options to fit any aesthetic or occasion. Read on for 12 winter-to-spring transitional outfit ideas, complete with product picks to recreate the look.

Bring a Sweater 

It happens time and time again: You put on a chic slip dress or other going-out look for dinner, then once you get outside, you realize that you should have brought a sweater. Fortunately, the right cardigan can go with any outfit and easily slip into your bag if you want to show your outfit off. 

Refined Grays 

Before we get into the bright pastels of spring, we're embracing the idea of a monochromatic "groutfit" during fake spring. Put together a tailored gray look featuring a long coat, a sweater, a mini skirt, and some sheer tights for a put-together look with ease. 

Casual Vibes 

As the snow starts to melt and warmer days arrive, many of us find ourselves going on more spontaneous adventures to enjoy the sunshine. Pair a T-shirt dress with an oversized leather bomber jacket and some sneakers for a weekend walk. 

Mix-and-Match 

Long, body-hugging dresses can be a little intimidating to style if you’re not going to a “dressy” event. However, you can easily dress them down by pairing them with sneakers and a track jacket for a sporty vibe, as Storm Reid does here. 

Coffee Run Chic 

As the weather gets warmer, heading out for coffee feels less like a chore and more like an event—but sometimes, it can be hard to predict the weather until you’re out there. Plan for a little of everything with a sheer turtleneck, knit pants, and a puffer coat to keep you warm. 

Cozy Standby 

Sometimes it’s best to stick with the basics, especially when fake spring leans cold. Keep a basic uniform of a cozy cardigan, a pleated skirt, and some sweet Mary Janes for an ensemble that's simple and stylish. 

Pop of Leopard 

It pays to walk on the wild side during fake spring, so don’t be afraid to layer fun prints underneath your coats. We love the idea of an on-trend leopard print catsuit paired with nude boots and a beige coat. 

More Inspo

Out on the Town 

Fake spring can lead to warm days paired with freezing nights, so make sure to layer up when you go out. Take a page out of Taylor Swift’s style handbook and pair a short pleated skirt with some dark tights and a cropped bomber jacket for warmth. Add a pair of loafer pumps for a preppy touch. 

Spring Into Prep

The current office-inspired and quiet luxury trends are bringing back some classic preppy staples, including tweed. Play around with these trends by pairing a tweed blazer dress with black boots and a fun headband for a Blair Waldorf-worthy fit. 

Sweet Night Out 

After a period of hibernation, you may be ready to get back out there when spring arrives—whether that means catching up with friends you haven't seen in a while or heading out on a first date. Wear a white long-sleeve blouse under a style sleeveless dress for a layering moment that takes both pieces to the next level.

Running Errands 

Athletic wear isn’t just for the gym or hanging around at home. You can easily (but still casually) dress up your favorite bralette or crop top and comfy pants by adding a tailored blazer, a gold waist belt, a statement handbag, and a baseball cap. 

Sequined Statement 

After a winter of wearing neutrals, embrace the arrival of early spring by adding a pop of color to your winter whites. Here, a sequined purple top creates bold contrast against white and neutral accessories. Wrap a white scarf around you like a cape for a touch of drama.