It’s that time of year: the weather’s unpredictable, allergies are acting up, and spring fashions aren’t quite ready to wear yet. Here’s a little study guide to help you take baby steps toward warm weather style.

Cashmere. Cashmere sweaters or cardigans can be a great choice heading into spring, even summer, especially when they are in lighter colors and/or are lightweight. Reach for them as great layering pieces for when days are flip flopping between warm and cold.

Boots (yes, boots). Not only are boots great for the fall/winter fashion season, but they also march right into spring  when  with ankle socks (or no socks at all). Especially in lighter colors, they look great with skirts and dresses. Ankle booties are sweet with rolled up jeans or with a knit skirt and a chambray top.

Stripes. Get yourself in stripes this spring. Blouses, trousers, dresses, scarfs; stripes in anything is the perfect pattern to pull out now. Get creative and mix stripes with stripes or stripes with floral prints.

Shorts are optional. Warm weather brings the temptation to wear less clothing but shorts aren’t for everyone. If you’re not a fan, try a cropped pant or shirtwaist dress instead.

Leather. Lightweight leather can be great for spring. Bomber jackets provide protection from the elements when a heavier coat would be too much. Light shades look great in dresses, skirts, and peplum tops.

Scarves. A great way to add spring to your wardrobe for a small investment is with a colorful scarf in silk, cotton, or linen.

Layers. When the mercury is all over the place, you have to dress smart, and smart layering is key. Make sure your outfit looks cute with or without that outer layer, because you could be taking it on and off a few times in a single day. Best: cotton cardigans or crocheted sweaters.

Refine your outfit in a matter of seconds. To dress up a casual spring outfit, throw on a couple of long necklaces to add a focal point and interest. Need to spruce it up even more? Add a pump or strappy sandals.

Black. Your black clothes don’t have to hibernate in warm weather. They’re great ‘year round. Help black shift into spring by adding color in an accessory. Or do some color-blocking by wearing a black pant with a geranium red or turquoise top.

Get wild. Prints are plentiful now. Find one you resonate with and that fits it into your current wardrobe. Make an outfit to show off your favorite prints of the spring season.

(Ketura Persellin is a wardrobe and style consultant in Washington, DC. If you need help getting your wardrobe in shape for spring, she’d love to help. Contact her at Ketura@JoyfulCloset.com to get started.)