However, transitional periods can come with an air of uncertainty: What should we keep from the colder months, and what should we change to adapt to the warmer days ahead?

Spring is especially unique in the Pacific Northwest. After months of rain and dreary landscapes, the arrival of colorful blooms, paired with cool weather interrupted by bursts of sunshine, both lifts spirits and provides versatility for those experiencing it. Alongside the shift from winter to summer come decisions about how to adjust our wardrobes.

The beauty of spring lies in its versatility — both in the weather and in the opportunities it provides for self-expression. The ability to combine comfort with personality never goes out of style, and the chance to return to boldness after muted winters is a welcome opportunity.

“Spring is my favorite season,” said public health student Ashlyn Rusk. After months of trekking across campus in bundled layers, she said spring feels like it “makes people feel their creative juices flow again.”

For others, spring is simply a time to express themselves comfortably outside of extreme weather conditions.

“I feel like I have the best outfits during that time because I’m able to wear the most comfortable outfits outside without worrying about burning up or freezing,” said master’s student Emily Engelke-Ryan.

The question of whether spring is its own fashion season arises just when you think you might still need that winter jacket to keep out the Oregon drizzle. Yet within 24 hours, bursts of sunshine bring out flip-flops and jeans, creating an opportunity for the best of both worlds.

Alex Spence described spring style as a blend of seasons.

“It’s kind of like I am meshing the two together,” he said, pointing to his outfit. “I would wear these pants in winter, but this shirt in summer.”

For Spence, spring offers time to fulfill the expectation of looking his best that he has set for himself year-round.

“I carry the expectation year-round,” he said. “I do think I tend to have more fun with it in the springtime. Fun accessories or colors — people are happier, and they want more fun in their days.”

Along with versatility comes endless possibility and the freedom to experiment. What is considered bold varies from person to person; what feels like a striking statement to some may be an everyday look to others.

“My favorite pair of shoes right now are my Tabi shoes,” Rusk said. “They’re not as bold to me because I am someone who really loves bold fashion choices. But it is a different shoe silhouette than people are really used to.”

She added that she enjoys pairing them with different outfits and “letting them speak for themselves.”

There is a strong statement in wearing something that will not be seen elsewhere.

In terms of boldness, Engelke-Ryan said she wants to “bring back wearing heels casually.” She also pointed to small shifts, such as square-toed flip-flops, as a way to elevate a basic look into something more chic.

When it comes to standing out, she emphasized that “it depends on how you use your creativity,” encouraging people to “take inspiration from people who came before you.”

Ultimately, spring fashion is a space of endless possibilities — a time when the world around us displays transformation and encourages expression that is intensely individual.