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Wardrobe tips to solve your Canadian spring style struggles

Dressing for spring in Canada is difficult to say the least.

The fickle nature of the season could be compared to a moody baby – all smiles and giggles one minute, hysterical ear-piercing screams the next.

So now that we’ve established the difficulties of dressing for spring in the Great White North, here are some of my handy style tips to minimize any hair pulling associated with this troublesome season.

Become an expert at layering…because sometimes it’s 5°C and sometimes its 25°C

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This isn’t groundbreaking style advice. Learning how to layer is not only practical when the weather can’t make up its mind, it’s also a great way to elevate any outfit. As a general rule of thumb, your inner layers should be more fitted and your outermost layer should generally be the longest. There are always exceptions to the rule -- and the best way to find out is to experiment at home.

Invest in a timeless spring jacket…because spring in Canada means the occasional wind and rainstorm

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast At Tiffany's
Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast At Tiffany's

There are two spring jackets I’ve seen every season without fail: trench coats and motorcycle jackets. A great spring jacket is lightweight but warm enough for those cool spring nights. You’ll never go wrong with a classic trench coat (just take a style cue from Audrey Hepburn) and if you want to get trendy, a kimono-style trench might be up your alley. The motorcycle jacket is also a wardrobe staple that can adapt to crazy temperature changes.

Have a lightweight scarf on hand…because just when you think you its bikini weather, it starts to snow

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If you’ve ever gone out on a cold day without a scarf, you can attest to its ability to keep those pesky gusts of wind from giving you a chill. Spring is tricky because those big knit scarves you wore all winter won’t work when the temperature can jump to 20°C. A lightweight scarf will keep the wind out and fold nicely into your purse when it gets too warm.

Have a great collection of booties…because flip-flops are too good to be true in April

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Like their name suggests, booties are a lesser version of a full on boot and ideal footwear for unpredictable spring weather. Booties work just as well in 20°C weather with a pretty dress as they do with jeans and a jacket when it dips to 5°C.

Pay attention to fabrics…because springtime in Canada is such a tease

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You may be tempted to wear a silk maxi dress when the temperature is high, but be aware that this may only last an hour or two. Keep your summer pieces like linen dresses and shorts packed away and opt for light knit fabrics that keep you warm, but still breathe well when the sun is being generous.

Identify great transitional pieces…because we just put away our parkas and we refuse to bring it back until January

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We use the word “transitional” a lot, but what does it really mean? It’s become a bit of a fashion buzzword and its definition has become somewhat lost.

When looking for a good transitional piece, we’re describing a piece of clothing that can work well for multiple seasons. Can you wear it with ankle boots and make it cold weather appropriate? When it gets unexpectedly hot, is it still workable with sandals and a stylish tank? Can you use it as a layering piece?

Cropped pants, long-sleeved dresses and vests are all good transitional pieces you can utilize all year round.

What are your style tips for surviving a Canadian spring? Let us know in the comments or tweet us at @YahooShineCA.