Ugh, is it “sprinter” where you live? Sprinter is a phenomenon that us east coasters and our cousins in the midwest alike get to enjoy around this time of year when every email that hits your inbox showcases something airy with bare legs while you remain bundled in the puffer coat from last year’s anniversary sale. Curses.  In this final stretch when we’re so close to spring, there are a few key layers and pieces I keep reaching for to get me through this tricky wardrobe season. 

1 |  A White Blazer

This white blazer has saved me for the past few weeks now and I keep grabbing it as the third piece to throw on over almost any all black ensemble to lighten things up. It’s loose enough to accommodate the turtleneck or thin cashmere sweaters I’m still wearing underneath it. And, the drapey fabric means that it will still perfectly transition to warmer weather here soon. Please. So soon. 

2 | The Snake Print Scarf

We saw a lot of snake last year, but it’s one of those evergreen prints for me that still has legs this time of year. I like snake a little better as an animal print for spring (leopard always feels very fall.) There’s something about shedding a skin that makes it the right style messaging for the March and April timeframe. Like the blazer, fabric choice here was key. The slightly floatier cut layers well and can wrap for extra warmth but won’t be too heavy going forward. 

3 | A Light Neutral Ankle Bootie

I first saw a light colored boot on Fashion Jackson and promptly added variations of them to every digital wishlist I have my hands in. These are a spring bootie in the way that so many other buck-colored suede versions are not (again, they can be too fall feeling for my taste.) The reason these work so well in spring is that they are “waterproof” and a light enough natural that they look great with the all black you’re still wearing. These booties are also a slim cut, so they won’t weigh down any spring dresses or midi’s you might be planning for.  

4 |  A Black Poncho 

Shorter girls might tend to avoid this much fabric as a topper, but it’s worth reconsidering for the versatility this piece has this time of year. At this point in the season, I’m over nearly every winter and fall purchase I’ve ever made and the best I can hope to do is a couple of smart basics for work or weekend. This third piece helps polish up a look if I belt it, keeps me warm should someone get feisty with the office AC, and also can be ditched if a restaurant is still blasting the heaters. The best have a bit of a wool blend for polish and can fold down smartly in your tote or for work travel when you’re done with it. 

Which wardrobe staples do you turn to this time of year between winter and spring? 

*Images via Pinterest