Writing Fashionista Friday has caused some sort of strange thing to happen to me.  All week long I have constantly been remembering the fashion-lows in my life.  I’m pretty sure my cowgirl stage was my all-time worst, but there were definitely many other “what was I thinking” stages along the way. 

I really need to work on getting our scanner out of the attic and hooked up somewhere so I can scan pics into my laptop.  That way you all can have a visual of all my fashion faux-pas.  For some reason, I feel the need to expose my blunders.  If you saw my 3rd grade school photo where I oh-so-chicly wore a Mickey Mouse bandana as a necklace and had somewhere close to 3 1/2 cans of mousse in my hair, you would surely think twice about taking fashion advice from me. 

For now, though, Fashionista Friday will continue.  Hopefully, I will not lead you astray. 

This week’s question comes from Nanci in New Mexico:

The weather is so crazy this time of year.  I’m tired of wearing dark, heavy clothing, but it’s still not warm enough to wear the “spring” clothing I see in stores right now.  How can I dress warmly, but in spring colors? 

This is where my years of working retail come in handy. 

Right around Christmas, stores usually put out their “resort-wear.”   These are clothes for those lucky ducks who get to escape the freezin’ jeebers weather and go on a cruise or to Hawaii or to wherever in the heck lucky ducks go. 

The rest of us get to benefit from this process right about now.  The reason being this:  stores are left with lots of this clothing and towards the end of February and beginning of March, they need to get rid of it and, therefore, mark it down. 

For the most part, “resort-wear” is bright in color, but not too light-weight.  It usually includes lots of great layering pieces like blazers, cardigans, and full-length pants that are the key to dressing springy without freezing you hiney off. 

Here are some great items I found that would brighten up any drab winter wardrobe, but still remind you that warm weathery goodness is on the way. 

This bright and yummy sweater would look fab layered over a printed blouse like this.  I have a slight cashmere addiction and it’s the perfect weight for early spring.  Of course, I love finding it on sale!

Another essential item for this time of year is a basic, neutral jacket like this one.  Layer it over a top like this and pair it with some simple chinos like these and you’re set.  Oh, and don’t forget about the accessories…how about these earrings or this necklace. 

So, Nanci, the bottom line is layer to stay warm, but add splashes of color into the mix and your spring will definitely brighten up a bit. 

I feel I can’t end today’s post without reminding you all that today is the 2nd day of the Banana Republic/Gap/Old Navy 30% off event.  If you don’t have the coupon, click on the “contact” tab at the top of my page and send me an email.  I’ll forward my coupon to you, so you don’t miss out.  The coupon is even good on regular priced and sale merchandise and can be used as many times as you want.  Cha ching!  Happy shopping!

And remember, send all of your fashion questions to momdiggity01@yahoo.com.