The transition from winter to spring is one we’re looking forward to: Bring on the bluer skies and warmer weather, the green grass and the mornings we don’t have to scrape ice off our windshields.
Since we’re insanely bored of our wardrobes at this point in late winter, we’re already shopping in anticipation of the new season. Our eyes are on transitional pieces like easy-to-shrug-on knits and midweight jackets that are easy to layer up with chunky knits now or down with a summer dress or T-shirt later.
To drill down on the best layers to shop for spring, we talked to a ton of stylists to get their favorite picks for the transitional season and find out what they’re adding to their carts to.
The best layers to shop for spring, according to stylists
“The best transitional pieces are the ones that can be styled multiple ways and layered intelligently, not just worn once the weather changes,” says Anna Lavo, an NYC-based celebrity fashion stylist.
Here’s what she looks for when the stylist is looking for winter-to-spring clothing and accessories:
-
Lightweight coats. “I always look for lightweight coats like trench coats or relaxed wool coats,” she says, adding that she also pulls tailored blazers and fine knits in to top off outfits.
-
Layerability. “Layering is the key,” she says. “A thin knit under a blazer, a button-down worn open over a tank, or a sweater draped over the shoulders instantly makes an outfit adaptable.
-
Breathable fabrics. “I also love pieces with breathable fabrics like cotton, silk, and lightweight wool because they regulate temperature better than synthetics,” Lavo says.
“From a stylist’s perspective, transitional dressing is about re-styling, not re-shopping,” Lavo says. “When a piece works across seasons with just a shoe or accessory change, that’s when a wardrobe really starts working for you.”
We’ve gotten Lavo’s picks and asked other top stylists for their recommendations for the best winter-to-spring transitional pieces. What we got back? Sleek anoraks, overproportioned leather jackets, and so. many. cardigans.
Read on to find out the stylists’ choices and to shop their picks yourself.
Stylists’ top picks for winter-to-spring transition pieces
A cropped cardi: GAP 100% Cotton Relaxed Crop Cardigan Sweater, $70. A classic cardigan gets a 2026 update with a boxy fit
A peplum cardigan: Zara Peplum Cardigan, $60. This beige beauty has covered buttons and a shaped waist for an elevated look.
A cool anorak: Lulemon Always Effortless Classic-Fit Jacket, $148. A seriously cool jacket to pair with athleisure or Docs
An overproportioned leather jacket: Oak + Fort Vegan Leather Double Collar Biker Jacket, $188. This almost intimidatingly cool jacket’s oversized shape and great details make for a three-season statement.
A sporty faux-leather bomber: ANINE BING Leon Bomber in army green, $400. A faux-leather bomber in avocado? Trust, you’re here for it.
An asymmetric blazer: Open Edit The Icon Asymmetric Fitted Blazer, $188. An off-kilter shape adds a major vibe to this go-anywhere layer.



