This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Last week's snowstorm reminded us that it's still winter. But that doesn't mean we can't start wearing the clothes of spring.
The trick to bridging the gap between seasons is to pair bright florals, polka dots and sundresses with classic winter staples already in the closet. Susan Taggart, an interior designer from Salt Lake City, uses the changing weather to be adventuresome. She layers a winter item with a spring piece: a sleeveless blouse over a long-sleeved t-shirt; or a cardigan sweater over a sundress. Here are a few other ways to make the transition from winter to spring:
Accessories • Bold colored bags, scarves, shoes and jewelry can make a winter outfit spring to life, says Diane Etherington, owner of The Children's Hour. Pink, orange, coral and yellow will take prominent positions this season. Flower embellishments, embroidery or beading can add a touch of excitement to dreary winter clothes.
Lighten up • Wear lighter or neutral-colors — khaki, tan and cream — with those winter grays, blacks and browns. Look for lighter fabrics, too. Trade those dark winter wools and knits for lightweight, softer jackets, raincoats and cardigans that are easy to remove if the day turns warm and sunny.
Leggings • This wardrobe staple is especially practical this time of year. Dark leggings with summer tops and dresses keeps the look suitable for cold weather and the legs warm. Pair your leggings with a ballet flat in a fun color or print, suggests Lu Sweeney, The Children's Hour manager. Show a little ankle while easing into summer's bare-leg look.
Don't put away the boots • You can still get mileage from your winter boots. They are great with leggings and spring prints. Sweeney said she usually wears her boots through April. Another advantage of boots — they are puddle safe. —
Get the look
Where • The Children's Hour, 898 S. 900 East, Salt Lake City; 801-359-4150
Details • Although it's known as a book and toy store, The Children's Hour also has shoes, clothing and accessories.