Getting dressed in March and April can be tricky, especially if you live in a climate similar to Chicago's. A lot of days in the 40s and lots of rainy slush make spring clothes feel hard to wear even though we are all craving something fresh. Here are a three outfit recipes that you can most likely replicate with items in your closet!

This time of year the key is using layers to avoid having to wear your puffy coat and adding in some lighter colors to freshen your look. 

Outfit 1: Maxi dress, clogs, duster, Gardenia Big Sling

What I love about it: This dress from Ozma has a scoop neck, so I'm able to show a little skin. I'm wearing tights here because it's cold in Chicago, but in April I'll wear this same outfit without tights. This Vincent James duster is extremely warm so I'm able to get away with it in the cold weather. Avoiding my puffy coat is always a win this time of year. Finally, I chose a Gardenia Sling Bag for this look to brighten it up!

Outfit 2: Denim, light weight button down, Tan Big Sling

What I love about it: Although you can't see the bottom of my jeans, they are a little cropped, which gives me options for footwear depending on the weather (clogs, Birkenstocks, slides, etc.). My button down is a gorgeous navy blue color and a very airy cotton feel. And I love the Tan Big Sling with the navy - it feels very spring!

Outfit 3: trousers, white t-shirt, cream sweater, Black Big Sling, and a great pair of sunnies. :) Also really loving these classic flip flops for summer!

What I love about it: The loose fit of the trousers with my black flip flops just feels good - easy breezy! This would also be great with loafers if flip flops isn't in the cards yet. I added a white t-shirt (or any t-shirt/tank top would work) with a sweater over my shoulders because you never know! I have my Black Big Sling on because I was going for a neutral, no color look.