Is anybody else itching to pull out their spring clothing and ditch the heavy coats? But, alas, the morning temps are still in the 40’s, then it warms to the 70’s at mid afternoon. The answer: A Third Layer Piece.

Yes, Jeffy. Thursday was officially the first day of spring. I know. You want to ditch your coat and hat, too. But, that’s not the answer. It’s time for transitional dressing, i.e., the in-between-season from winter to spring, when we can’t really figure out exactly what to wear.

I have a lovely cotton dress that I’ve been dying to wear, but (whine again), it’s still too cold! The calendar says, “It’s time,” but the temperature does not agree.

A lightweight, third layer piece is the answer. The key word here is LIGHTWEIGHT (in fabric and color), to keep the spring vibe going. Let’s look at some third layer piece options. And they do not include my black wool coat.

In this casual look, I’m wearing a light color denim jacket and sneakers.

Still keeping it casual, a cardigan is always a good choice. (No heavy sweaters, please!)

My dog, Ollie, likes it, too! Especially when I throw his soccer toy!

If you need a work look, a light colored, linen blazer could be a nice choice.

And, for dressy or evening, a lightweight wrap in a complimentary color is the way to go.

(I guess you can tell the wind is starting to whip up. After all, we are in Texas.)

So, using this cotton dress as an inside base, I can create different looks simply by changing out my layering piece. (And, I found all these options in my own closet.)

These layering pieces are listed from least casual to most formal: (Page 51 in Q Style)

• Hooded jacket (workout clothes)
• Denim jacket (light in color is most casual)
• Unstructured jacket or cardigan
• Tailored blazer
• Silk wrap/kimono

So, ladies, you CAN pull out your spring garments. Then shop your own closet for lightweight, coordinating third layer pieces. They are the secret style ingredient for chic dressing.

Remember:

“A third layer piece ALWAYS finishes a look, no matter the occasion.” …Janna Beatty

A special thanks to my husband, Joe, for acting as my photographer.