The Key To Spring :: anorak + dress + jeans

The key to spring is being prepared and wearing layers - nothing you haven't heard before. But today I'm going to share with you some of my favorite spring essentials that were made for indecisive weather; they're not too heavy, not too light, and can easily be shed. Spring may be tricky but with these adaptable pieces it doesn't have to be. 

 Item number one: a versatile, medium-weight anorak. What I love about anoraks is that they're typically fleece-lined, waterproof, and have drawstrings for a flattering fit. They're the perfect 50-degree jacket and come in a variety of neutral tones. You can easily roll up the sleeves of an anorak and they look just as chic unzipped as they do zipped. These jackets are a springtime win-win!

Item number two: colorful accessories. This fabulous purple key necklace from  La Clé is the finishing touch to any casual look. With it's bold, vibrant color, this unique bauble stands out against the usual spring palette of pastels. Buy this piece here or checkout the entire La Clé website for your own customized key. 

Item number three: sunglasses. I don't know about you, but I think an oversized pair of shades is a must - not only for spring but for all year round. If an overcast day strikes then use your sunnies as a hair accessory. 

I'm a sucker for Argo Tea samples. There are just some things you can't resist...even in the middle of a photo shoot. 

Item number four: a pair of peep toe booties. Peep toe shoes - especially boots - were made for transitional seasons. They're the perfect hybrid of sandal and boot that allow your toes a breath of fresh air while keeping the rest of your foot warm and concealed. 

Item number five: A tunic. Tunics (or in my case dresses) make the list due to their layering power. A longer top looks fantastic underneath jackets and provides that tiny bit of extra warmth that late March days often call for.  

Photos by Dan Harper

[dress: Brandy Melville, anorak: Loft, jeans: Joe's, booties: Old Navy, sunglasses: Ann Taylor, key necklace: La Clé*, watch: Fossil, leather bracelet: Michael Dawkins, silver spike bracelet: Stella & Dot, earrings: fine jewelry]

I think we can all agree that spring can be such a weather tease. I'm currently home in Chicago on spring break and while the weekend was sunny and mildly warm, we're expecting snow early this week. What a buzzkill! But at least now that spring has officially arrived, we know that permanent warmer temps can't be too far away. Until then I'll make sure that my anorak is within close reach! 

SHOP ::