5 Things Friday - A Little Bit Of Spring
How to make your outfits feel lighter, fresher and a little more spring-like, even when its still not quite spring!
Hi, I hope you are having a lovely week and feeling fresh and bright now that we are slowly edging towards a new season. This week has been the first time that I feel that spring is on its way. We’ve been able to take Ted for his evening walk a little later, and how lovely is it to be able to catch those last rays at 5 o’clock. The snowdrops are out and I’ve noticed shoots coming through in the garden. Most importantly, I left the house without my beanie hat on at least 3 occasions this week… we’ve definitely had a few milder days here in Yorkshire!
But before we crack out the sandals, is it spring yet? No, sadly not, we’ve still got a good few months before we can get too excited. I see another cold snap is forecast, but I’m getting a little bored with the jumper/big coat/beanie uniform I’ve been wearing since October. I’m yearning for something fresher, and lighter, but without compromising on cosiness! It’s still all about layers, so while I’m slowly shedding chunky jumpers and puffa coats I’m keeping the chill out with my thermals! In general, I’m pretty warm most of the time (read menopausal), but on cold days I love a light thermal layer; the Uniqlo cashmere mix ones are fantastically warm but light and the Cos merino wool tops are fab to wear under a shirt or dress for an extra warm layer. So, if you are in need of some inspiration to carry you through from winter to spring, here are five ways I’m bringing a little newness into my outfits.
1. Cardigans Instead of Jumpers
Sounds obvious, but as someone who used to shy away from cardigans (they gave me a frumpy teacher vibe), I am willing to admit they’ve had a style upgrade in recent years. I’ve added three to my wardrobe this winter; the iconic Gaspard one from Sezane, the more cropped style Jady one and, my recent buy, an oversized one from Cos. I keep away from chunky mid-length ones, which can be tricky to style for my pear shape and can head in the frumpy direction.
I love this Albaray cream cotton cardigan. It also comes in a beautiful sky blue, which is gorgeous for spring, but cream will go with everything. I’ve worn T-shirts all winter under my jumpers - I find them so comfortable. Go with a heavy-weight cotton like these Arket ones or M&S do a great one. It is maybe not trench weather just yet, but with a few layers underneath (like a cosy gilet and a scarf), it works, and makes a nice change to a heavy wool coat.
2. Swap Your Dark Denim For A Lighter Wash
I bought my current favourite Uniqlo jeans (now under £20!) in a cream/natural wash last week and I’ve worn them a few times already. I prefer a cream over white, as it’s less harsh, but any lighter colour denim always looks fresh, particularly if you’ve been living in dark denim all winter.
A favourite colour combo - brown, cream, and green! M&S has such a great variety of jeans in all styles, but these wide legs are perfect now and then you can pair with sandals in the summer. I tried the M&S brown jacket in-store. It's gorgeous and very wearable now and it goes perfectly with my Amazon leather bag, which was a great bargain find this year. I paired it with an emerald green &otherstories knit, and to keep the chill out, a necktie from TBC.