Anticipation

There's nothing like seeing spring merchandise in stores to get you out of your post-holiday, mid-winter funk. Sure winter was nice at the beginning when the snow was first falling and there was Christmas and new year's to look forward to, as well as cozy days in front of the fire during your days off. But now the snow has turned into slush and the holidays have come and gone. 

But it's also too early to start wearing all the lighter fabrics and shorter skirts and dresses, since it's still pretty cold out. But there are ways you can incorporate these looks and pieces into your pre-spring wardrobe without freezing or looking like you shouldn't be wearing that for another few months.

A great tip is to add some bulk and chunkiness to a light-weight item you want to wear. For instance, you can wear a thicker cotton or wool turtleneck under a sleeveless or short-sleeve dress. You can wear a heavy denim or chambray shirt under a cropped tropical wool or linen sweater. Take this floral kimono from H&M (what could be more springy?) But throw on a heavy turtle neck or sweater underneath, like this one from Club Monaco. The leather accents also make the look more wintery.

Shorter skirts and dresses are easy to warm up, by just wearing a thick or knit tight under them. You can also throw on a cardigan or wool blazer on top, and you'll look and feel cozy while still showing off your latest spring find. A spring maxi or midi length skirt is also good because it's long enough that you don't need the tights to make it more weather-appropriate, so you can create that look by doing something warmer on the top. Add an ankle boot to the outfit for an on-trend, stylish look.

You can also wear a spring colour, pattern, or fabric now by pairing it with a fall or winter colour. Try a dress like this one from Zara with a forest green, cable-knit cardigan like this one from Top Shop. The cardigan adds the perfect amount of cozy to the look, and with a cable-knit tight will look perfect for the pre-spring season.