As we transition from winter to spring, it may be hard to let go of some winter staples like a sweater or you may be ready to jump into spring pastels and tank tops. Nevertheless, there is still a little chill in the air, and that chill makes picking out an outfit all the more frustrating. But, have no fear! Rylee, The Maximalist is here! Here to teach you how to make transitional outfits as we head from winter to spring.
As a Texas resident, my winter has had some sunny 70 degree days. As a Texas resident, I am also aware that it has iced several times in the past during spring. So, the word adaptable does come to mind during these transitional months.
The maximalist outfit rule of thumb is that the outfit revolves around color, layers, texture, accessories, pattern, or a combination thereof. These rules will still be incorporated, but we will also look at the outfits with a different scope- that of balance.
Balance is a consideration in any outfit; however, the balance I am referring to is not of shape or weight, but of season. In Mulan 2, she sings, “One alone is not enough, you need both together..” Mulan is right. (Mulan 2 is now streaming on Disney Plus)
So the lesson we now must learn is, how do we combine both seasons to make a seamless outfit?
First and foremost weather plays the ultimate part in this. If the weather is sunny and warm, we may not be leaning towards the long sleeve and tights outfit. However, it is something to note that most days that are warm and sunny, are still chilly in the evening, so maybe bring that sweater along after all.
One way I like to balance my transitional outfits is with color. The colors I associate with winter are darker, such as: black, burgundy, red, grey, brown, deep blue. Colors I associate with spring are the opposite, such as: white, pink, purple, light blue, yellow, overall brighter and pastel-like colors.
Texture and layers can also be associated with different seasons as well. When we think of lace, (Spring or Summer), wool (Winter), Fluff/Fur (Winter), Linen, (Spring or Summer).
Think about this the same with certain patterns too. Leopard print? Generally fall/winter. Floral? come on… queue the quote.
Devil Wears Prada (2006) stream now on HBO Max
So now lets look at some outfits…
If we analyze these outfits, there are similarities to them. Color: the mixing of light and dark colors (blue and checkered, vibrant red and black, black and white, burgundy and pink, red and pink, red and black, white and brown, blue and dark blue). Pattern: the incorporation of pattern to elevate the mood or theme of the outfit- is the outfit leaning towards spring or winter? (leopard print, heart print, checkered print, and zebra print). Layers/accessories: showcases different silhouettes and adds dimension (vests, tights, leg warmers, scarves, belts).
Combining different elements from each season while still having the pieces mesh together is what makes a successful transitional outfit. By braking my outfits down, it is easier to see how balance between the two seasons is used to successfully make a transitional outfit. Example: The burgundy and pink outfit (textured pants). Broken down: Pink (spring) vs Burgundy (winter), long pant (typical sign of fall/winter as it covers and keeps warm) vs one sleeve top (could lean either season), and red (could lean either season).
Now I challenge you to make transitional outfits as we are changing seasons, back and forth with weather, and confused on what to wear when we wake up in the morning.
Leave a Reply