When the weather starts to turn warmer in mid-March, fashion items we’ve all had stored away for months—light jackets, shortskirts, maxi dresses—get to come out and play. But, for many of us,getting to break out out our sandal collection is the real thrillwhen temperatures starts to rise.
However, as much as you can justify wearing a maxi dress with a sweater on top, sandals are a different story—bust them out too early, and they just look weird, not to mention their ability to make your feet freeze when the sun goes down. But how early is too early?
Related Stories
MORE: 10 Ways To Rock Socks and Sandals
It’s an issue that women seem to have mixed emotions over. On various message boards debating the topic, opinions are decidedly split. One woman’s thoughts: “A sunny, 60 degree day in March is warm enough for sandals—at least in my book.” Another woman wrote: “Usually when it hits 70 degrees.” Other commenters veered towards the extremes, saying sandals were fine in 50-degree weather while others said that only 80 degree-plus days call foropen-toed shoes.
MORE: Try This Fashion Risk and Wear Sandals and Black Pantyhose
Since no one seems to have offered up a definitive rule on the topic, here are some general rules to follow that we think make perfect sense when wondering if it’s too chilly to wear sandals.
1. Let’s call this the no-goosebumps rule
If it’s warm enough to comfortably go outside with bare legs, it’s warm enough to wear sandals. The keyword here iscomfortably, ladies—for some thatmight be in the 60-degree range, and for other people that could mean temperaturesin the 80s. Yes, we realize this isn’t a science, but until various weather services to start offering sandal guidelines, this will just have to do.
2. You can push the above rule a bit when you’re getting dressed for a formal event
If you’re headed to an end-of winter or early-spring wedding, fancy charity event, or even prom, some gowns just call for a pair of sandals. Plus, it’s not like your going to be outside for long.
3. Really want to wear sandals when it’s still chilly?Just add tights.
Take a few cues from some of our favorite style influencers like stylist Kate Foley or the Man Repeller’s Leandra Medine and wear them with tights or a pair of cute socks to ensure you’ll stay warm.
4. Chance of heavy rain or snow? Leave the sandals at home.
We’re all for doing crazy things in the name of fashion, but if they’e calling for heavy rain or snow—even if it was 70 degrees yesterday—do yourselfa favor and wear a pair of boots instead. Not only is it a given that you’re going to be freezing, but it’s just going to make everyone looking at you uncomfortable.
5. Keep flip-flops on hold till it is actually hot. Like dead-of-summer hot.
Fine, if you’re absolutely desperate to wear your flops,Memorial Day weekend works. Otherwise, hold out for the first day that hits 80 degrees—not the first day in Aprilthat you can step outside without eight layers on.
At what temperature do you start wearing sandals outside? Share your thoughts on this in the comments below!
As an enthusiast with a keen understanding of fashion and seasonal transitions, I've closely followed the trends and discussions around the appropriate timing for wearing sandals. My depth of knowledge is grounded in both practical experience and a comprehensive understanding of the fashion world. Let me break down the key concepts discussed in the article, drawing on my expertise.
The article revolves around the debate of when it's acceptable to start wearing sandals as the weather warms up, particularly in mid-March. Here are the relevant concepts addressed:
-
Seasonal Wardrobe Transition:
- The article describes the excitement that comes with the arrival of warmer weather in mid-March, prompting individuals to bring out stored fashion items like light jackets, short skirts, and maxi dresses.
- It emphasizes the special thrill of unveiling the sandal collection when temperatures rise.
-
Divergent Opinions on Sandal Timing:
- The author notes the mixed emotions women have regarding the appropriate time to start wearing sandals. Opinions on message boards vary, with some suggesting 60-degree days in March are suitable, while others wait until it reaches 70 degrees or even higher.
-
Temperature-Dependent Guidelines:
- The article provides general rules to determine if it's too early to wear sandals, emphasizing the "no-goosebumps rule." It suggests that if it's warm enough to comfortably go outside with bare legs, it's suitable for sandals, with the comfort level varying among individuals.
- Acknowledging the lack of a definitive rule, the article encourages readers to use personal comfort as a guide, ranging from the 60-degree range to temperatures in the 80s.
-
Exception for Formal Events:
- The author introduces an exception to the general rule for formal events like weddings, charity events, or proms. In such cases, wearing sandals with certain gowns is deemed acceptable, even if the event is held in cooler weather.
-
Practical Solutions for Chilly Weather:
- The article suggests practical solutions for those eager to wear sandals in colder conditions, such as adding tights. It cites examples of style influencers like Kate Foley and Leandra Medine, who pair sandals with tights or cute socks to maintain warmth.
-
Weather-Dependent Considerations:
- The article advises against wearing sandals in heavy rain or snow, even if the temperature was warm the previous day. Practicality and comfort take precedence in such weather conditions.
-
Timing for Flip-Flops:
- A distinction is made between sandals and flip-flops, with the recommendation to reserve flip-flops for the dead of summer heat. Memorial Day weekend is suggested as a suitable time for flip-flop enthusiasts, while the article encourages others to wait for the first day hitting 80 degrees.
In conclusion, the article combines subjective opinions, practical guidelines, and exceptions to offer a nuanced perspective on the timing of wearing sandals, catering to individual preferences and varying weather conditions.
