Planning an outfit when the weather can’t make up its mind is not easy, to say the least. One minute it may feel like spring has fully arrived, the next you find yourself reaching for not one, but two extra layers before rushing out the door. It’s that brief window in the season when getting dressed requires more thought than you think, with pieces that can adapt to shifting temperatures throughout the day.
Vogue’s Favorite Transitional Outfits From the Runway:
Treading that fine line of polish and practicality requires you to build a look with pieces that feel intentional rather than excessive. Lightweight outerwear, versatile separates, and sharp accessories are essential during this stretch, making it easy to add—or subtract—layers without compromising the look.
For unexpected inspiration on how to master transitional dressing, we turned to the spring runways for guidance. We loved how Fforme paired Bermuda shorts with a maxi trench coat, and Celine’s take on leather jacket styling with a bow blouse, tapered trousers, and straw bag. Bottega Veneta and Polo Ralph Lauren cut through, too, with fresh lessons in injecting color and texture.
Many of these looks can be built around items you already own; others incorporate some of the season’s key pieces, like sporty anoraks, low-waisted skirts, and silk scarves, to make the transition into spring all the chicer—and easier.
Ahead, nine of our favorite runway looks to take into spring, and how to piece them together.
Bow Blouse + Leather Jacket + Straw Bag
Celine styles all the season’s hero pieces into one singular look—recreate it the idea with a bow blouse, leather jacket, tapered trousers, and roomy straw bag.
Duster Coat + Maxi Skirt
This Kallmeyer look has a hint of Pride and Prejudice, but done the modern way. A sweeping duster coat and fluid maxi skirt feels romantic and effortless, especially when grounded by soft, glove-like loafers.
Leather Jacket + Midi Skirt +Clogs
Elevate your seasonal uniform the Bottega Veneta way by pairing an olive-green leather jacket with a pink poplin shirt and grey midi skirt. Complete with clogs, then add a braided belt and woven bag as finishing touches.
Floral Dress + Blouson Jacket
There’s nothing like a pop of red to brighten up a spring outfit. Pair a floral dress with a red blouson jacket to balance out the feminine and masculine touches. Add a cardigan over your shoulders and pair with flip-flops.
Cropped Jacket + Maxi Skirt
Take a styling note from Ami and play with proportions: a cropped jacket balances out longer, looser shapes (an oversized shirt, V-neck sweater, and maxi skirt). The result is layered—with pieces you can peel off as the day warms up.
