Every March, our wardrobes face a perplexing standoff with the weather. The season, often dubbed “fool’s spring,” is a transitional period marked by unpredictable temperature swings, deceptive sunshine, and the occasional frosty reminder of winter. Navigating what to wear in this weather can feel like a daily puzzle. Dressing for this meteorological limbo can feel like a sartorial minefield, but fear not—we’ve tapped into the wisdom of some of the most stylish women in the country to help you navigate this tricky time with flair and functionality.
Embrace Hosiery: The Unsung Hero
Henrietta Rix, co-founder of the vintage-inspired brand Rixo, swears by the power of hosiery to combat erratic temperatures. “I always keep a pair of London Sock Company socks in my bag,” she shares. “They’re versatile, high-quality, and come in a range of colors—perfect for those days when the weather can’t make up its mind.”
Writer Katherine Ormerod takes a similar approach, incorporating thermal tights into her spring wardrobe. “M&S thermal tights are a game-changer,” she explains. “I wear them under spring dresses with knee-high boots, which allows me to transition my wardrobe seamlessly across seasons.”
Scarves: The Ultimate Layering Tool
Scarves aren’t just for winter—they’re a fool’s spring essential. From Old Hollywood glamour to Gen Z-approved bonnet styling, scarves offer both warmth and versatility.
Rix recommends her brand’s Julian scarf, which can be wrapped tightly for warmth or draped loosely for a chic, effortless look. Fashion editor Alexandra Stedman takes a practical approach, using a knitted triangle scarf as both a neck warmer and an impromptu rain shield. “Looping it over my head like the late Queen might look mad, but it’s freeing and surprisingly chic,” she says.
The Cardi-naissance: A Cardigan Comeback
Cardigans have made a triumphant return, and they’re perfect for fool’s spring. Street-style stars have been spotted wearing them as tops, with the bottom buttons undone for a hint of midriff, but a more accessible approach is layering them over a long-sleeved white T-shirt, à la Hailey Bieber.
Ormerod is a fan of fine-knit mohair cardigans, particularly those nipped at the waist and cropped above the hip. “My Dôen Petra cardigan is worth every penny,” she says. “It adds warmth without overwhelming the look.”
Transition Your Footwear: Patent Shoes to the Rescue
As winter boots begin to show signs of wear, it’s time to introduce patent shoes into your rotation. Fashion PR Alexandra Carello swears by her Jennifer Chamandi Mattia pumps in cherry patent. “They’re resilient, stylish, and perfect for this in-between season,” she says. Pair them with thin tights for an extra layer of warmth.
Ormerod agrees, recommending structured Mary Janes in patent leather. “Sézane has an excellent selection,” she notes. “They’re practical in the rain and endlessly chic.”
Layer with a Poncho: Effortless and On-Trend
Ponchos, a Y2K revival seen on runways at Rabanne, Chloé, and Moschino, are a fool’s spring essential. Their loose, draped silhouette makes them easy to layer over jackets, trench coats, or even roll necks.
Carello loves her Carolina Herrera poncho, which she describes as “just right” for this time of year. “It’s the perfect supporting layer—easy to throw on or take off as needed.” For a more functional option, consider a waterproof trench with interior carry straps, like the Meriweather Anna Trench coat, recommended by influencer Kelly Eastwood.
Stick to Natural Fibers: Comfort Meets Style
While the temptation to break out summer dresses is strong, natural fibers are your best bet for fool’s spring. Pip Durell, founder of With Nothing Underneath, advocates for brushed cotton shirts layered with knits and jackets. “They’re soft, versatile, and effective at keeping you warm without overheating,” she explains.
For a 1960s Parisian intellectual vibe, try pairing a roll neck under a shirt—a look that’s both timeless and on-trend for next season.
Final Thoughts
Navigating fool’s spring requires a blend of practicality and creativity. By embracing hosiery, scarves, cardigans, patent shoes, ponchos, and natural fibers, you can create outfits that are as adaptable as the weather itself. Remember, the key is layering—allowing you to add or remove pieces as temperatures fluctuate. With these tips, you’ll not only survive fool’s spring but do so in style.