Yes, we know, coming back from whatever tropical oasis you went to for spring break to essentially unpredictable Baltimore weather is kind of a bummer. From fading tans, 30 percent forecasts of precipitation that should have been 100 percent and 60 degree weather when there is still snow on the ground, our closets are in a bit of a situation. Luckily, there are a few things that we can do to ease the transition from the cold winter to an upcoming spring season. For those of us who simply cannot wait to break out our favorite summer essentials, there may be a few fashionably subtle, less aggressive ways to debut them.

First, there’s the jacket. Checking the weather every morning can only do so much, but when you leave your dorm wearing your down jacket expecting 30 degree weather, you may be surprised with a more “feels like 50” kind of day. Embrace the cargo. Cargo jackets have not only carried over from every fall season there ever was, but considering you only stopped using it a couple months ago, you may be lucky enough to still have it handy. Brands like Madewell and J. Crew have especially mastered this recycled trend, and paired with a sweater underneath, you can’t go wrong with this staple. Other “top layer” possibilities? Instead of the cargo, switch it in for a jean jacket or your favorite cotton anorak. All perfect for layering, these jackets fit with the latest trends and provide easy last minute solutions for the chilly weather without weighing you down.

Feeling too much like you’re going back to fall with these layers of earthy tones? Try to enhance your outfit with a bright bag. Some of our favorite stores like Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie offer everything from high-end designer bags to reasonably priced clutches that can boost any outfit. Especially with fall tones, try to mix in bright pastels like lavender or yellow that can pull out the “spring-ness” of your outfit. Don’t want to spend potential vacation money on a bag? Swap out the bag with a colorful scarf; not only can a scarf lighten the mood of your outfit, it can also be a trendy way to keep up with your easy-on, easy-off layers.

Lastly, we have the most challenging transition: footwear. Besides layers and bright additions such as a bag or scarf, the toughest decision for a spring day’s outfit can actually be the make or break factor. Seriously, it’s getting too warm for your snuggly Uggs or your staple riding boots, but breaking out your gladiators seems like too much of a warm-weathered commitment. The newest footwear trends of spring 2014 have new and exciting things in store for any fashion aficionados, and luckily these new trends are leaning more toward our comfort itch. Canvas sneakers have been a “thing” even since our parents were in grade school and fortunately, this doable trend continues. Brands like Superga, Converse and Via Spiga offer fantastic choices anywhere from simple, sporty looks to loud, trendy statements. Not in a sporty mood? Loafers have made a huge entrance into everyday fashion, and besides taking a sophisticated approach to comfortable footwear, owning a solid colored pair can mean easy matching and effortless style.

Regardless of style, let’s be honest, transitioning into spring fashion can be the best, yet most stressful fashion period of the year and it seems like you might have to break out your entire inventory just to be prepared on a day-to-day basis. But one thing is for sure, stick to these essentials and you can never go wrong. But, for those of you who fully embrace the slight temperature change by altogether switching to summer apparel, keep doing you.