10 Accessories to Transition Your Wardrobe from Winter to Spring

Here’s a secret I’ve learned after years of getting dressed: you don’t need to overhaul your closet when the seasons change. The fastest way to make your wardrobe feel fresh? Update your accessories. A lighter scarf, a neutral bag in a new shape, a pair of earrings that catch the light—these small shifts signal spring without requiring you to retire your favorite sweaters just yet. Today I’m sharing 10 accessories that will help you bridge the gap between winter and spring, whether you’re still layering up or starting to peel off the coats. These are the pieces that earn their place in your closet because they work now and keep working for months to come.

Shop Beth’s Cover Image: Striped Cardigan | Alternative Knee-Length Denim Skirt | Ribbed Tee | Alternative Woven Handbag | Alternative Suede Block Heels

10 Transitional Accessories

1. A Lightweight Scarf in a Spring Color or Print

Your chunky knit infinity scarf has done its job all winter—now it’s time to swap it for something lighter. A cotton, linen, or silk-blend scarf in a print or soft spring shade (think blush, soft blue, sage, or cream) adds warmth on cool mornings without the bulk. It’s the easiest way to introduce a fresh color near your face while still wearing your winter coat.

What to Look For: Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or modal. A size large enough to wrap once or twice, but not so heavy that it overwhelms.

How to Style It: Drape it loosely over a blazer, tie it at the neck with a button-down, or loop it once over a crewneck sweater.

Beth’s Pick

Cashmere is another great option because it’s a breathable, natural fabric – perfect for spring transition in places where spring temps can be a bit slow to show up. 

Splurge: Carey Cashmere Scarf

2. A Structured Tote in a Warm Neutral

If your winter bag is black or dark burgundy, consider a structured tote in cognac, tan, or warm taupe for spring. A neutral bag in a lighter tone instantly lifts your outfit and pairs beautifully with both denim and dresses. Look for clean lines and minimal hardware—it should feel polished but not fussy.

What to Look For: Quality leather or vegan leather with a structured shape. Interior pockets are a plus. 

How to Style It: Carry it with everything—jeans and a sweater, a midi dress, trousers, and a blazer. It’s your new daily workhorse.

Beth’s Pick

Splurge: Tory Burch Romy Leather Tote

Steal: Vegan Leather Zip-Top Tote Bag

3. Gold Jewelry (Layered or Statement)

Nothing says “fresh start” like a little shine. Gold jewelry—whether it’s layered necklaces, chunky hoops, or a statement cuff—adds warmth and polish to even the simplest outfit. If you’ve been hibernating in silver all winter, now’s the time to reach for gold.

What to Look For: Pieces that can be worn alone or layered. A mix of delicate and chunky gives you options.

How to Style It: Layer two or three necklaces of varying lengths over a simple crewneck. Add gold hoops and a few bangles, and suddenly your jeans and sweater look intentional.

Beth’s Pick

Deal: Organic Wide Cuff Bracelet

Steal: Layered Chain Pendant Necklace

4. A Crossbody Bag for Hands-Free Days

Spring means more walking, more errands, more spontaneous outings. A sleek crossbody bag keeps your essentials close without weighing you down. Look for one in a neutral that works with your wardrobe—black, tan, or even a soft blush.

What to Look For: An adjustable strap, a secure closure, and enough room for your phone, wallet, keys, and sunglasses.

How to Style It: Perfect for weekend farmers markets, travel days, or anytime you need to be hands-free.

Beth’s Pick

Splurge: Lily Crossbody

Steal: Mary Mini Crossbody Bag

5. Tortoiseshell Sunglasses

If you’ve been wearing the same black sunglasses for years, tortoiseshell is a softer, warmer option that flatters most skin tones. They feel fresh without being trendy and work with everything from athleisure to a linen dress.

What to Look For: A classic shape that suits your face—round, square, or cat-eye. UV protection is non-negotiable.

How to Style It: Push them on top of your head when you walk inside, or let them hang from a chic glasses chain. Either way, they’re doing double duty as an accessory.

Beth’s Pick

Deal: Tory Burch Pilot Sunglasses

Steal: Amara Square Sunglasses

6. A Statement Brooch

Old-school in the best way. A vintage-inspired brooch adds instant personality to a blazer lapel, a cardigan, or even pinned to a scarf or the shoulder of a coat. It’s the kind of small detail that makes people say, “I love that—where did you get it?” Brooches are also a great way to wear something meaningful, whether it’s a vintage piece from your mother or a flea market find with a story.

What to Look For: A size that makes an impact without overwhelming—about 1.5 to 3 inches. Gold tones, pearls, enamel, or subtle sparkle all work beautifully. Vintage and vintage-inspired styles feel elevated rather than costume-y.

How to Style It: Pin it to the lapel of a blazer or the neckline of a crew neck sweater. Try it at the center of a scarf knot or off-center on a coat collar. One brooch is a statement; you don’t need more.

Beth’s Pick

Deal: Tulip Brooch

Steal: Sculpted Cutout Brooch

7. Loafers or Ballet Flats in a Neutral Tone

Your boots have earned a rest. Transitional footwear like loafers or ballet flats in tan, nude, or black bridges the gap between winter boots and summer sandals. They’re polished enough for work but comfortable enough for all-day wear.

What to Look For: A cushioned insole, quality leather or suede, and a shape that flatters your foot. Pointed toes elongate; rounded toes feel classic.

How to Style It: Pair with cropped trousers, midi skirts, or straight-leg jeans. They work with bare ankles or thin socks when it’s still cool.

Beth’s Picks

8. A Light Belt to Define Your Waist

When you’re wearing flowy spring layers, a belt keeps things from looking shapeless. A medium-width leather belt in cognac or tan adds definition without looking dated. It’s also a great way to refresh a dress or cardigan you’ve worn all winter.

What to Look For: Real or high-quality faux leather, a simple buckle (gold hardware warms things up), and a width that works with your body proportions.

How to Style It: Belt a long cardigan, a shirt dress, or a tunic over trousers. Instant waist.

Beth’s Pick

Deal: Roller Buckle Belt in Suede

Steal: Time & Tru Buckle Belt

9. Stud Earrings with a Little Sparkle

Sometimes you don’t want a statement—you just want a little light near your face. A pair of stud earrings with subtle sparkle (think cubic zirconia, pearl, or small gold knots) is the perfect everyday accessory. They’re polished without trying too hard.

What to Look For: A secure backing (screw-backs or heavy-duty push-backs), a size that’s visible but not overwhelming, and a metal that works with your skin tone.How to Style It: Wear them daily with everything. They’re your set-it-and-forget-it earrings.

Beth’s Pick

Deal: Kate Spade New York Flower Stud Earrings

Steal: J.Crew Grommet Pearl Stud Earrings

10. A Lightweight Jacket You Can Carry

Okay, this one’s technically clothing—but hear me out. A packable, lightweight jacket (think a cotton utility jacket, a linen blazer, or a soft trench) is the ultimate transitional accessory. You’ll carry it as much as you wear it during this in-between season, so choose one that looks good draped over your arm.

What to Look For: A neutral color, a relaxed fit that layers easily, and a weight that won’t overheat you indoors.

How to Style It: Tie it over your shoulders for a classic look, carry it folded over your bag, or toss it on when the temperature drops.

Beth’s Pick

Splurge: Mini Belfast Jacket in Italian Performance Linen

Deal: Banana Republic Factory Hayden Blazer

• Spring Shoe Guide: 10 Styles Worth Buying Now
• 15 Best Designer Dupes in 2026: Get the Luxury Look for Less
• The Best Ankle Boots to Wear into Spring
• 12 Transitional Amazon Finds for Late Winter

Closing Thoughts – Transitional Accessories for Spring

You don’t need to reinvent your wardrobe every time the weather shifts. A few well-chosen accessories can do the heavy lifting—adding warmth, color, and polish to pieces you already own. Start with one or two updates (a lighter scarf, a fresh pair of flats, some gold jewelry) and see how quickly your winter wardrobe starts to feel like spring. The best transitional pieces are the ones you’ll reach for again and again, so choose quality over quantity and let your accessories do the work.