Spring is finally here! I think. Ottawa weather is hit or miss. One day – you can be sitting on a patio in the sun enjoying a latte with only a hint of a snow bank in the distance. The next day? An Alberta Clipper swoops into town that makes you pray for mercy.
I’m staying positive though and slowly transitioning my winter wardrobe to spring. I’ve put together a few tips to make your winter wardrobe feel a little more springlike.
Lighten Up Those Fabrics
I’ve started putting away my heavy knits and opting for lightweight cashmere and merino wool. Both of these fabrics are lightweight and very breathable, keeping you warm during those chilly mornings and evenings, and cool during the warm afternoons.
WHAT I’M WEARING
Coat – Zara (similar here) | Turtleneck – Club Monaco | Cropped Flares – Citizens of Humanity | Boots – L’Intervalle (similar here) | Watch – Birks (no longer available) | Earrings – Tiffany & Co. | Purse – Gucci | Ring – Alex & Ani | Silver Chain Bracelet – Tiffany & Co.
Transitional Coats
I have a few lightweight wool coats that are just warm enough to ward off the winter winds but comfortable to wear during those warm spring walks. A favourite is my long camel coat – classic that looks great both in the snow and sunshine.
Cropped Flares
I’ve already let you guys know about my hesitance/love for this fun trend. They are particularly great this time of year because you can show a little ankle without freezing to death. If it is a tad chilly, pair them with some taller boots to keep you warm but still looking chic.
A Fun Purse
This Gucci Dionysus purse that I’ve worn to death has proven to be a great investment! Its happy cobalt colour and pretty spring-like blooms are perfect for this time of year. Light and fresh, it’s a must for April and May. This little winner of a purse still makes me smile each time I pull it out.
The Coat Suitable For The Canadian Spring
I bought this faux shearling coat after spotting the original on the Acne website. The coat was GORGEOUS, but way out of my budget. I found this at Zara a few weeks ago and while it’s heavy and wintery, I can’t stop wearing it because it’s warm and stylish. This particular day was sunny and above zero, but DAMN. That wind was cold. It kept me cozy and warm enough to wear all of the other spring pieces.
Pull Out Those Pumps
In a few weeks, the weather will be warm enough to tuck away the boots and switch them out for fun, spring pumps. They obviously look great with anything (one of my fave looks is distressed denim with feminine pumps) so enjoy them for the next few months when keeping your feet from freezing off is no longer a priority.
Now, go get off your device and enjoy spring!
*Photography courtesy of Salt & Streets Photography.
Dominique is a Canadian-based fashion and beauty influencer with a strong voice in Ottawa’s black community. Since launching her blog Style Domination in 2015, she has amassed a global fanbase. Dominique shares her life through beautiful imagery and compelling story-telling that speaks to her fans on a personal level. She’s been featured in The Guardian, Flare, The Kit and Cityline. She also hosts events for Dress for Success, the Gem Conference, and has been named a United Way Person 2 Know for the past three years.
I feeel you on that cold weather. I’m in Minnesota and y’all be sending that mess right to us lol. At least you don’t have a ton of now though.
Pumps are definitely a MUST for a cool spring look. I really have to work on my selection of transitional coats.
Love these looks! You look great! We don’t have real cold weather here in Miami but I wish we did.
Author
Ooooh. I love Miami. My trip to South Beach was completely amazing. I cannot wait to go back! I think you’d get real sick of this weather real fast. LOL!
Transitioning can be hard to do especially when the weather lingers on and on. I love the tan coat choice and the cropped jeans.
My favorite part of this look is that amazing bag. Keep coming with the tips.
I love the look and the message to get off here and out there to enjoy spring! Lol..bye..you inspired me to go shopping.
Author
Hahaha! Go enjoy and treat yo’self!
Girl, this weather is joke. Its spring and we’re expecting snow this Saturday. In April! I love both of those coats though. i would definitely rock those any chance I get.
Author
This weather SUCCCCKKKKKKSSSS!!!
Love this post. I just bought a new Tian Gucci purse in TO (I just really needed to share that with someone who gets how awesome their purses are)!
Author
OMG!!!! That’s awesome, Jessie!! Jeez – I can’t wait to see it on your socials!
Love the boots! They are a good transitional piece…they can be used for the in-between months/season!
Great tips! Transitioning your wardrobe for the different seasons can be difficult.
Author
Thanks, Jay!
I love the fashion transition from winter to spring. I get to push the envelope a bit. A good jacket is key for sure. I love a camp jacket and moccasins.
I kind cant stand this transitional period. Especially in Atlanta you dont know to be hot or cold.
It’s still really cold where I live but I’m so ready to start shopping for spring, I’m holding off though for warmer weather so this is actually really helpful!
Love the whole look. I’m with you on the jeans. I’ve been slow to come around. I like them here. I love those boots. I have a ton of them from when I lived in the Midwest. I barely pull them out living in California. I kinda miss them.
Author
You should just rock them, Camesha. Thanks for reading!
I don’t really wear purses, but this is cute purse that gives your outfit a pop of color. I also like the short asymmetrical cut with the belts is cute and stylish.
I love the tip about cropped flares. They just feel so “spring” for some reason. Lovely look, Dom.
Author
Thank you, Doll!
I bought the tan coat as a transition coat at your advice! It was $30 and looks gooooood! I love the creme/white skirt. Really pretty.
Author
Oh AWESOME! I’m so happy! It’s such a great piece. I wear mine often!