Spring is a push and pull of temperature and precipitation, a season caught between moods, tilting toward something brighter—your wardrobe should do the same.

Spring isn’t just fall in reverse—it’s still cool, but instead of bracing for the cold, we’re looking forward to the heat. Mornings might be crisp, afternoons can get warm, and by evening, you’re dodging rain or dealing with humidity. Our clothing should reflect that transition. That means layers that work with shifting temperatures, colors that feel brighter and more alive, and fabrics that anticipate summer instead of holding onto winter.

“More importantly, people don’t seem to know what to do with their AC during this time—they either blast it or turn it off completely—so it’s important to be prepared for anything,” Primer style contributor Daniel Baraka explains about his outfit that embodies everything spring dressing is about—practical, adaptable, and optimistic.

His approach isn’t just about looking good in one outfit—it’s about understanding what makes spring style distinct from fall and how to dress for it with confidence. Here’s what we can learn from his outfit and how to build a sharp, affordable spring wardrobe that does the same.

Layering: Dressing for Spring’s Mood Swings

Daniel’s outfit is a masterclass in transitional layering. In different colors and fabrics, this would be a fall look but the specifics are what give us functional spring.

“For this outfit, I have a trench coat, a sweater, a t-shirt, and light denim, all tied together with a lightweight scarf that adds some pattern and fun.”

The goal is flexibility—each piece should work together but also stand on its own when you need to remove a layer.

→ Style notes: What’s the difference between a trench coat and a pea coat?

How to Make This Work for You: Stick to three core layers: a lightweight jacket, a breathable sweater, and a well-chosen base that can act on its own, like a striped tee. Finer weight scarves like this wool and silk blend aren’t just for winter—think of them as functional accessories that add texture and personality without the overheating you’d get from a thick, cold front-battling winter scarf.

Color: Why Spring is Not Just Lighter Fall Clothes

One of the biggest mistakes guys make in spring is keeping their fall and winter color palette. “What colors represent spring? They’re very different from fall and winter. Spring is a time for a lighter palette. The days are getting longer, flowers are blooming, and I love to lean into pastels—pinks, yellows, oranges. These colors add optimism to the day and feel very different from the sweaters I wear in the fall,” says Daniel.

Spring color isn’t just about swapping dark shades for pastels—it’s about adjusting the overall tone of your outfit. Daniel’s sweater uses a bright but grounded contrast color, signaling the transition toward summer.

His striped t-shirt underneath continues that theme, moving away from winter’s muted tones. “I love when outfits feel like they’re anticipating summer. As the days get brighter, your color palette should reflect that instead of sticking with the earth tones of fall and winter.” Instead of holding onto browns, deep greens, and burgundy, spring is the time to start introducing lighter, fresher colors that feel more energetic and forward-looking.

How to Add Spring Color Without Overdoing It: Start with one lighter-toned piece—like a sweater in salmon, soft blue, or dusty yellow—and balance it with neutrals. If pastels feel too bold, try muted versions instead. Stripes and color-blocking can introduce color in a way that feels natural rather than overwhelming.

Fabric Choices: The Right Textures for the Season

Beyond color, spring sweaters also focus on how they feel.

“Spring sweaters are mostly cotton, as opposed to the wools and cashmeres of fall and winter. You can also opt for silk sweaters, which are rarer, or linen blends, though those can be harder to find. I’ve found a lot of silk sweaters on eBay, for example,” Daniel says.

Cotton is breathable and adaptable, making it ideal for transitional weather. Silk takes out most of the sweater’s weight mild days, while linen blends handle the biggest temperature swings.

A little texture—ribbing, contrast stitching, or a slight weave—can make even a basic sweater feel intentional. “Essentially, you want either a fun color or an interesting pattern. This sweater has a bit of texture and is inspired by an army sweater, but with a contrasting color that makes it more dynamic,” Daniel explains.

→ Learn more about: All the sweater options you have

For spring, ditch the heavy twills and opt for lighter denim—rigid, dark jeans feel too heavy for the season, plus they’re a slog during rain or humidity.

→ Learn more about: Getting back into lightwash denim

Goodbye to Winter: How to Build Your Spring Wardrobe Without Overthinking It

→ Learn: How to wear a trench coat without looking like a 1930s detective

Daniel’s outfit captures everything that makes spring style distinct: adaptability, optimism, and preparation for warmer days ahead. “That’s what makes a spring outfit distinct from a fall outfit. While both are transitional for more extreme weather, they feel very different, and our clothing should reflect that,” he says.

Spring is about dressing for where you’re going, not where you’ve been. Swap out winter layers for breathable fabrics, introduce color with confidence, and build your wardrobe with an eye toward the warmer days ahead. With just a few smart swaps, you’ll be ready for the season in a way that feels effortless, sharp, and invigorated.