With spring having very much arrived (at last!), these early days of warmer temperatures are some of the most unpredictable when it comes to the weather forecast, making it really confusing to get dressed in the morning. One day the sun might make, albeit, a brief appearance, the next we’re subjected to freezing temperatures and rain.
Tights or bare legs? Trench or wool coat? Turning getting dressed into guess-and-check. For this reason, having an arsenal of sartorial standouts that will layer easy, keep you warm or cool when required, are integral in navigating the tricky transitional time of year.
But, the incipient change in temperatures did impel duchess-to-be Meghan Markle to give her signature belted overcoats a warm(er) weather adaptation, nailing transitional dressing in the process. Markle, who attended a reception with delegates from the Commonwealth Youth Forum, choose the Audrey cream dress from Altuzzara topped off with a black blazer by Australia label Camila and Marc, artfully shoulder-robed.
Crafted in a pinstripe ottoman fabric, the sundress featuring vertical stripes was an apt choice for the suddenly-warmer balmy weather of London. Neutral tones are an elegant alternative to this season’s bold colours and prints, but nude hues do double duty - ticking style and practical boxes. Lighter colours (white, tans, pastels) reflect light, when dark shades absorb light and heat, which is why softer shades will keep you cool.
While it might be tempting to opt for floaty, light fabrics at the sudden sight of sun, lightweight materials still need to have some structure so they don’t cling to you when you perspire.
Make no mistake, it’s never wise to do away with your outerwear completely. Proving a spring cover-up is non-negotiable, Markle made the case for aiming for something a little more high-powered like a tailored blazer.
A welcome addition, if like Markle, you’re going to brave a dress sans tights, midi dresses and skirts, all look cooler when wore with bare legs so shake off the shackles of woolly black tights.
Just keep the hemlines longer, a la Markle, for more leg coverage, and the secondary layer of a blazer will give slight extra warmth.
