Though you may still be dealing with some serious cold, spring is just around the corner. That means it’s time to start thinking your spring style must-haves! It may be tempting to ditch your winter threads all together; the reality is that warmer weather doesn’t always accompany spring’s welcomed return. No matter what your size, transitioning from your winter wardrobe into spring is a cinch if you keep a few key points in mind.

1. Don’t pack up last season’s wardrobe

Some of your most beloved pieces from winter are still crucial to staying warm during chillier spring days! Layer a neutral fall cardigan over a printed or bright colored spring dress for a transitional look that goes from work to happy hour in a snap. This is also a great way to highlight your most flattering features while concealing problem areas like flabby arms or a fuller midsection.

Circle print chiffon dress with ruffle ($30, fashiontofigure.com)

Sequin open cardigan ($22.80, forever21.com)

 2. Try a new jacket

While the weather may still be dreary and gray, your outerwear doesn’t have to be. Incorporate some sunshine into your look by swapping out your winter coat for a brightly colored trench. Not only is a trench less bulky than a wool coat, but the traditional tie is perfect for defining and accentuating your waist while showing off those fabulous curves! Pair this look with killer pumps and you have an instant outfit for a night out on the town or ready for power lunch meeting.

Belted trench coat ($38.99 fashionbug.com)

AK Anne Klein short trench ($41.99, 6pm.com)

3. Don’t be afraid to go bold

Spring is a great time to play with the bright colors that you may have missed in the winter and we love this season’s all-over neon trend. Ladies who are plus size sometimes shy away from all over color but it’s important to focus on the form of the garment and not the hue. Don’t be afraid of trying out a new color if the silhouette is flattering. If you’re still not ready to go completely techno color try adding pops of color with your accessories like bracelets, chunky necklaces or pumps.

Poncho top with wide belt ($28, fashiontofigure.com)

Avenue ruffled capelet dress ($68, onestopplus.com)

4. Pair with prints

Prints like polka dots and stripes are always en vogue for every body type. Much like color, you can use prints to highlight your favorite features. If you have a great bust line try a printed v-neck top or dress; if you’ve got great legs show them off in a fun floral skirt! Add texture and interest to your day-to-day look by incorporating pieces with subtle prints. It’s important to note when picking prints that large, garish prints are typically unflattering on fuller bodies, no matter the garment’s silhouette.

Navy sketch dot surplice dress ($64.50, torrid.com)

Signature a-line skirt ($69.90, eloquii.com)

5. Try out Tangerine

Tangerine is the “it” color for spring 2012. It pairs beautifully with winter’s neutral palette. Liven up your winter whites with a splash of this vibrant hue or freshen up a stoic navy suit with a pop of color. Tangerine is especially flattering on medium and dark skin tones, if your skin is fair try an orange with a bit more pink in it, like coral!

Rafaella ruffle front drape slub shell ($40.60, boscovs.com)

Jones New York Collection Plus pleated flare skirt ($41.99, 6pm.com)

Read Library Nerd Meets Rock N Roll at L.A.M.B: MB Fashion Week Fall 2012

6. Accessorize

Accessories are an amazing way to make an old outfit new again while cutting costs. If you don’t want to spend all of your cash updating your wardrobe focus on key accents like shoes, scarves, or handbags in a spring hue or print. It never costs much to have fabulous style; warm up your wardrobe with popular spring trends like pastels, neons, florals, or fringed pieces.

Gold clasp clutch ($38, fashiontofigure.com)

Guess Hondola neon platforms ($90, bloomingdales.com)

Transitioning from winter to spring can prove to be tricky at times but keep in mind that no matter what, you want to be warm, comfortable, and most of all fabulous. Invest in pieces that flatter your figure and key accents that will update your look in a snap. Don’t be afraid to mix and match, pull out pieces the night before and try a new look. The most important tip in transitioning your wardrobe is to focus on highlighting your best attributes – do what works for you!

Michael Kaplan is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fashion To Figure Stores (FTF). FTF is a trendy full-fashion shopping experience focused exclusively on women sizes 12-26. FTF provides chic, up-to-the-minute apparel and related accessories at fast fashion prices with hand-tailored service in an uplifting store environment.