Spring is finally upon us, and Old Man Winter is going into hibernation not a moment too soon. As you start thinking about working off the holiday cookies and getting your body beach-ready, you may be wondering if last year’s warm weather wardrobe is up to par.

While most of us are looking forward to stowing away the pea coats and sporting fewer layers, few have the money to buy a whole new wardrobe. These tips will give you some ideas for updating your look for the season with a little money leftover for your spring break getaway.

For Work

The workplace may be no place for hiking up your skirt, but that doesn’t mean you can’t show a little skin now that temperatures are friendly. Keep it simple at work with some basic flats, fitted crops and a flattering batwing top. Top it off with a simple, but classy side-braid, and your look is sure to cheer up everyone in the office. Keep in mind, though, that spring weather can be fickle, so keep a light cardigan on hand for drafty days. This look, for example, is classic and easy, and is a great way to ease into the color-blocking trend plastered all over the runways. Best of all, it clocks in at under $150.

First Date

First impressions are worth a million bucks, and there’s no reason you shouldn’t look like it for a first date or other special occasion — at an affordable price, of course! This year, we’re seeing fewer one-shoulder fitted frocks, and instead are feasting our eyes on delicate cuts in billowing fabrics that are gently cinched at the waist. Paired with a nude pump and discreet clutch, this look is a classic that you’ll be proud to wear for years to come. Try this example, which uses a painted print that pays tribute to the tribal trends popular in fashion right now.

Weekender

Spring is the time when we start thinking about weekend road trips and fun day trips. Your weekender look this spring should be feminine and chic. Try pairing some wedges with a gently pleated short. Just make sure to offset this leggy look with balanced coverage on top. Also, because pairing shorts with heels gives a bold impression, don’t overdo it on the accessories. Keep them simple and demure — perhaps choosing a dainty ankle bracelet and drop earrings to compliment the look. Do you need an example? Take a look at this idea board.

Work Out

Since we’ll all be hitting the gym in overtime between now and swim season, you’ll probably want to ditch the hoodies and yoga pants for a lighter wear. If running is your thing, try some neon-colored shorts and tank tops in moisture-wicking fabrics. If you prefer to take to the golf course as the temperatures rise, take advantage of fewer layers with some colorful golf shoes, a pink polo and some pleated khaki shorts. Here, you’ll find a traditional golf look made appropriate for spring.

With affordable and stylish looks like these, you’ll wonder how you ever got through winter!

Alexa Thomason is a graduate student in Chicago who spends her free time browsing vintage stores, traveling, and creating art. She contributes at http://www.artroommelody.com – blogging about creative inspirations and trends. Keep up with her on Twitter: @lexathomason

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