5 Spring Style Wardrobe Essentials

Early spring is perhaps the trickiest of micro seasons to navigate fashionably. A strong layering game is key to navigating frosty early mornings that end in practically perfect afternoons. An expertly layered outfit is the hallmark of a stylish woman. It takes sartorial skill to blend several garments to create a multi-dimension, multi-textured look that reads inspired and effortless at once.

Treat these 5 pieces as a go-to fashion formula for topping a flirty spring dress, a fit tank and wide-leg pants, or your matching athleisure sweatsuit on a 45-degree morning. Peel pieces away throughout the day to greet a 67-degree afternoon. Even better -- each item holds its own all year long and with a color tweak or two, this combo will work just as seamlessly for transitioning outfits from summer to autumn.

Nail your transitional spring outfits with these 5 key items that you can layer on top of your neutral staples, and just as easily take off when things heat up.

TRANSITIONAL KEY PIECE #1: JEAN JACKET

Thanks to its iconic shape and match everything hue, the denim jacket is an endlessly versatile layering basic that complements outfits from every single style archetype. It keeps you warm, is easy to pull on and off, and instantly adds a classic touch to every look.

The absolute best thing about a denim jacket? You probably already own one - and if you don't, there are super affordable options available in every wash, color, and style imaginable.

TRANSITIONAL KEY PIECE #2: ANORAK JACKET

A classic military-style jacket, the anorak is always in. The weight and versatility make it a perfect top layer for spring or autumn and the cut generally accommodates a layer or two underneath with ease. If you prefer a more structured aesthetic, substitute the anorak for a trench coat.

TRANSITIONAL KEY PIECE #3: FEDORA

Fedoras may have a bad rap, but the fashion world is rewriting that story. You'll want to get in on this trend now because a chic fedora elevates any look. Hats are great for spring and fall because they keep your head and ears warm, and your face safe from the sun.

Finding the perfect fedora can be tricky, but the ladies and I will help you in the MappCraft | Tiny Closet, Tons of Style® Survival Guide Facebook Group.

TRANSITIONAL KEY PIECE #4: SILK SCARF

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again- silk scarves are the world’s most versatile accessory. If you know me, you know I adore my Hermes scarf collection. Aside from their sentimental value (a decade of gifts from my husband), silk twill scarves are my chic and endlessly versatile secret for adding color and flair to my capsule wardrobe.

Read 24 Ways To Wear a Silk Scarf blog post from 2016

TRANSITIONAL KEY PIECE #5: MULES

Your feet have been wrapped up in warm socks, slippers, boots, and sneakers this winter. Time to come out of hibernation, half-way. What better shoe than a mule to support your feet in the transition to being practically naked in your summer strappy sandals.

Mules let your ankles be free but keep your toes warm and cozy. They are the ultimate hassle-free shoe and slip on and off in a breeze so you can kick off the shoes and walk barefoot in the green spring grass seamlessly.