We are taught that there are four seasons—winter, spring, summer and fall—but in California, there tends to be a bit of a reduction in the range of the weather. While many say that we have two seasons, sunny and rainy, I disagree: we also have that frustrating, not quite-winter-not-quite spring period that stretches from mid-January to early March. Having lived in Northern California my whole life, I am more than familiar with this infinitely frustrating stretch of time. The early mornings are often characterized by thick fog (and once in a while, to my horror, even a sheen of frost on the rooftops, melted by the time the sun properly rises, but still). There is sunlight in the early afternoons, but it is frequently marred by gloomy clouds and the occasional light rain. And after a few days of these less-than-optimal conditions (residents of the Midwest can roll their eyes if they wish), there is a glorious day or two of real California weather: sunshine, cloudless blue skies, the whole nine stereotypical yards. And then, as soon as you plan your outdoor excursions for the weekend, cloudy conditions with a more-than-likely chance of rain return. During the often-unpredictable late winter and early spring, it can be difficult to decide what to wear.
One obvious solution is layering. I am extremely sensitive to the cold, so I wear tights all the time during the in-between season. As long as they're not too bulky, I'll even wear tights under jeans.
Ribbed tights, Forever 21, $8.80
Your autumn cardigans should carry over into almost-spring. It can seem sensible to invest in wardrobe staples in all neutral colors because they “go with everything,” but a brightly colored cardigan—I like hot pink, myself—adds a pop of color and visual interest to a basic everyday cold-weather outfit of a warm top and jeans. Fitted sweaters are great for all seasons: they’re comfortable, figure flattering, and warm.
Cable Knit Cardigan, Forever 21, $18.99
Slouchy knit hats and hairbands are another way to brave the elements—my mother’s rather unscientific childhood warning that an uncovered head is a ticket to a terrible cold still rings in my ears. I find that fedoras and pork pie hats, though trendy and practically required by hipster by-laws, are not universally flattering. Berets still have that I-am-a-misunderstood-intellectual feel and are less likely to blow off in the wind. Chasing your hat is a surefire way to ruin your hipster mystique anyway.
Mossimo Sequin Hat, Target, $6.48
Finally, rain boots. Yes, they may take you back to the yellow boots of your childhood, and fashionistas may be a bit wary of them just because they are so practical. Pragmatic shoes do not tend to be very cute. Think Uggs and Crocs. Well, I’ll make a case for rainboats. They come in many different patterns and colors and they actually add some whimsy to an outfit. They provide a way to stand out in a drab season.
Kate Spade New York Randi Too Rain Boots, Saks Fifth Avenue, $150
Posted by twentyonesketchbookies on February 17, 2012 at 01:28 PM EST #
Posted by Jenn on February 17, 2012 at 05:55 PM EST #