After the Longest January in History, Here's What to Wear in February

January has come to an end and spring is in the air. Let’s all breathe a collective sigh of relief. Those of us who live in the UK likely have a handful of chilly months still ahead, but at the very least, we’ll soon be able to ditch the heavy wool coats and winter warmers.

With this in mind, it’s time to start thinking about which outfits will carry us through the transitional period. February isn’t just the first sign of spring; it’s also a month filled with hot-off-the-press inspiration, thanks to the succession of fashion weeks popping up around the world. After finding your sartorial footing in the first few weeks of the year, now is the prime time to take note from the catwalks and start having fun with your style.

Alas, it's still slightly too early to hide away your knitwear and embrace the rainbow dresses and sandal trends that will come out in full force this summer. Ease yourself in by opting for lighter layers, hints of colour and fresh alternatives to your cold-weather staples. To give you some ideas, I've rounded up 6 outfits that successfully toe the line between winter and spring. You know what to do...

1. Bazer + Midi Dress + Chunky Shoes

What to wear in February: @frannfyne

Photo:

@frannfyne

Style Notes: Blazer season is officially upon us. It's the perfect layer for unpredictable temperatures, and looks good with just about everything. I especially love this midi-dress-and-derby-shoes combination,

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This whole suit is refreshingly affordable.

These chunky shoes will bridge the gap between boots and sandals.

2. Colourful Top + Trousers + Accessories

What to wear in February: @karodall

Photo:

@karodall

Style Notes: After the post-Christmas gloominess of January, I think we could all use a little cheering up. And it just so happens that saturated styling is one of 2023's biggest trends.

Go all-out on the fun and buy the matching blazer.

Bottega Veneta sure knows how to make an eye-catching handbag.

3. Trench Coat + Cable Knit + Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: After the colourful look above, here's one on the opposite end of the spectrum: top-to-toe neutrals. Beat the between-seasons chill with a cable-knit jumper layered under your trench.

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& Other Stories has re-released this chic design after it sold out last year.

For beautifully tailored trousers, I always look to COS.

4. Bomber Jacket + Long Denim Skirt + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: February is the ideal time to try out some trends that are new to you. Bomber jackets, denim skirts and ballet flats are all set to be huge this spring.

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Made from 100% organic cotton, which uses 50% less water than conventional cotton.

When The Row embraces a trend, you know it

5. Relaxed Suit + Shoulder Bag

Style Notes: If you've spent the start of the year in your PJs, counteract the cosiness with a loosely tailored suit. Still just as comfy, but undeniably classier.

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Style a turtleneck underneath for now, then switch it out for a tank top when the weather warms.

The single pleat down on each leg really sharpens these trousers up.

6. Knitted Vest + White Shirt + Mini Skirt

What to wear in February: @shhtephs

Photo:

@shhtephs

Style Notes: Too mild for a weighty jumper? Go sleeveless with a knitted vest instead, and test the waters with a leg-baring skirt. You can always stash a pair of emergency tights in your bag, just in case.

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This bold blood-orange shade will break up a monochrome outfit nicely.

H&M is my go-to for outfit fundamentals like this.

If you're not ready to don a denim mini, choose a wool or will style instead. 

This story was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

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