Strictly has started so that must mean Autumn is on the way. And it's a classic case of the weather improving now that it's September - it's chilly in the morning and lovely and warm in the afternoon, at least in Bristol anyway! Which of course, is fabulous when we can enjoy that heat but it can be a tricky thing to navigate when it comes to our wardrobe.
Transitional pieces are the thing to turn to when we're trying to dress for 2 seasons in a day. These are pieces which lend themselves to either season and can offer some versatility to our wardrobe. In this blog I'll offer you a few tips on how to dress for this changeable weather, as well as some inspiration from the shops themselves.
Tops with "interest" & waistcoats
Chances are you're going to be stripping at some point during the day when you get hot so make sure your layers are considered. Sleeves with gorgeous detail, t-shirts in great colours, etc., so that when you do need to shed a layer or two you're still prepared and your outfit is considered.
Waistcoats are still very much visible on the high street, and needless to say they're a great transitional piece as they allow some breathability. There are lots out there in so many style and colours - so I would say take your time in choosing one which is right for your style personality and in a colour that works for you and your existing wardrobe.
Blazers, jackets & cardigans
Blazers have been a staple of many wardrobes in recent years for great reason. They provide a level of formality should the occasion need it, but they're available in so many colours and weight which can make them more "streetwear" if necessary. A linen blazer is a great example of a lightweight outer layer which still really adds to a look but once the weather warms up a bit light enough not to be a burden.
There's also lots of bomber jackets about still - a slightly edgier look but a bit more relaxed than a blazer if that's more your style.
There are also some lovely cardigans now too which of course offer a similar solution to blazers and jackets however I do offer a word of caution on cardigans. They do need to be cared for - a bobbly cardigan is never going to look amazing (sorry!) and to avoid it looking too "granny-ish" you need to style it up. My simple tip here is to use contrast with the cardigan -for example you could pair it with pleather trousers/leggings or wear a light silk top, maybe with lace detail under the cardigan. The contrast of textures will ensure the cardigan doesn't look fuddy duddy (is that still a phrase?!) and mean it looks styled.
Breathable fabrics
Goes without saying but if you are layering up to be warm early in the day and you're concerned about getting hot too quickly, make sure the layers you're choosing are breathable. By that I mean natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, modal or silk for example. These fabrics work by allowing moisture to travel to the surface (yes, sweat marks unfortunately) but then evaporate away from the body.
Don't forget about those summer dresses
As a personal stylist, when I do a client's wardrobe refresh I often see the gorgeous summer dresses forgotten about for 3 seasons of the year. But there's so much these items can offer you. Worn with tights and chunky boots, or a turtle neck underneath or with a jumper over the top - there are so many options with dresses which can be a great option in this transitional time. Don't forget them!
Trench coats
The classic trench coat. It's a timeless piece which never dates and is a great investment to any wardrobe. My only stipulation in this would be to ensure it is in one of your great colours. These can be a bit spendy and we want it to last you years so if you're going to splash out on a trench coat just make sure it's in a great colour so that it provides you with amazing value for years to come. A waterproof/showerproof trench coat is a brilliant transitional wardrobe staple.
And there you have it. I'm going to send this blog out super quick, before the weather changes!!!
I've mentioned a few times on here about investing in great colours so that you get great value from these purchases. If you've no idea what colours look fab on you or where to start, remember I'm here to help. Let's get the confusion out of colour analysis! I offer colour analysis which considers the 12 seasonal tones and you'll receive your own personal colour wallet, perfect to take with you whenever you're next shopping. Just drop me an email and we can chat if you'd like to hear more.
Until next time,
Lou x
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