The spring outfit formulas to follow.
Dressing up during spring is the greatest balancing act. One day, the weather might signal that it’s finally time to break out that sundress, and the next, you’re shivering the second you step outside, wishing you grabbed that extra layer. As temperatures continue to hover around 50 degrees, figuring out what to wear becomes even trickier.
So what’s the best course of action for when it’s too hot to wear a full-on coat but still chilly enough where you can’t get away with going bare-armed? According to stylist Yvette Jordan, there’s one rule you should look to to get you through the season. “As a stylist, I believe that layering is important on a 50-degree weather day,” she shares. “My process for this is to start with a basic white tee under a crew neck sweater, then add a cropped jacket.”
She adds, “Next, I typically like to add a midi skirt and over-the-knee boots so no skin is showing. For accessories, anything from a baseball cap, crossbody bag, sunglasses, and some bracelets can make this feel more curated.”
Whether you’re navigating a breezy morning commute or a surprisingly sunny afternoon, we’ve got you covered with outfit ideas to get you through the awkward dressing period. Ahead, seven looks that are 50-degree weather approved.
1. Throw On A Light Trench Coat
No need to button your trench coat to the top this season. Instead, go for lightweight and breathable layers that keep you warm without breaking a sweat before you even have the chance to grab coffee. Worn in tandem with a tank and a lightweight top, your layered look will be full of dimension and easy to adjust as the day heats up.
2. Shorts With Leggings
It’s still a bit too cold to confidently step out in the morning with bare legs without risking that morning chill catching you off guard. Instead, add a pair of tights to your outfit for a cozy yet super chic combination. Opt for sheer black for a classic touch or experiment with textured or colored tights to give your look a playful edge.
3. Relaxed Trousers
Instead of opting for thick, heavy fabrics that can leave you overheating by midday, go for a pair of relaxed trousers in lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or linen. These fabrics offer enough warmth while also allowing for airflow, so you stay in the sweet spot of comfort no matter your destination.
4. Knee High Boots
If you decide wearing leggings underneath your shorts just isn’t for you, another hack is to break out your knee-high boots. It will achieve that same level of coverage without requiring you to consider your entire outfit’s color palette.
5. Crop Jacket
Wearing a crop jacket always runs the risk of looking a little awkward next to the bottom half of your outfit. The proportions can feel off depending on the shirt underneath or your low-rise jeans create too much of a gap. When paired with a midi skirt, however, the streamlined silhouette balances everything out. The skirt’s length adds just enough coverage to create a polished, cohesive look, making the cropped jacket feel intentional rather than mismatched.
6. Oversized Blazer
While winter might have been unforgiving of your choice to walk out of your home in just a blazer, cloudy days like these thrive off of it. Instead of wearing a traditional jacket, use your trusty blazer for a polished touch to your outfit. Wearing an oversized one will especially help create that relaxed feel for when you don’t want to appear too formal.
7. Crew Neck Sweater
Going the route of choosing a crew neck sweater for these in-between days is practically foolproof. It provides just the right amount of coverage without feeling too heavy, with its snugness around the neck and soft fabric. Its classic cut also makes it easy to layer over a lightweight top or under a jacket, making it a super versatile base piece.
