Transitional Wardrobe Inspiration: Summer to Autumn/Winter

It's definitely getting chilling in the mornings isn't it? But, by lunchtime you’re peeling off the layers again. Sound familiar? Early autumn can be a tricky time to dress. But with a few clever transitional pieces, you can glide from cool mornings to warm afternoons without a complete outfit change. It just requires a bit of planning, consideration and a wardrobe that works for your style and your lifestyle.

So, if you’re standing in front of your wardrobe wondering whether to reach for a chunky knit or a linen t-shirt (or both!), I hear you. Let's discuss how to master dressing for two seasons in one day plus some outfit inspiration to make it fun again.

The Key to Transitional Dressing

So, what are those clever items in your wardrobe that work just as well layered up for cooler mornings as they do on their own when the sun comes out? Think breathable fabrics, clever layers, and timeless staples that bridge the gap between summer and autumn effortlessly. Some of these may be items you've owned for years. Time and time again you've reached for them as they are "old reliables" and you feel great in them.

💚 For me, the one that springs to mind is my blue denim shirt. I love wearing it on it's own but equally it looks great over a vest top or t-shirt as a layer. Under jumpers also works of course. It's a really versatile piece which is perfect this time of year.

Tops with Personality

You’re likely to be shedding layers at some point during the day, so make sure what’s underneath feels just as good as the outer layer. Tops with interest - whether that’s a pretty pattern, an interesting detail or a favourite colour. Something that's going to feel polished even when you’ve stripped off a layer to cool down!

💚 Sometimes easier said than done, but this is a nice way to look intentional with your wardrobe. So, choose all elements of your wardrobe with purpose so that when/if you peel off your jumper your outfit still works and allows you to feel great.

Dressing with intention immediately makes an outfit look stylish and pulled together.

Blazers & Jackets

Blazers continue to earn their place as a great wardrobe staple and are perfect as a transitional wardrobe piece. They instantly smarten up an outfit and are available in so many fabrics, colours and patterns now that you can easily find one for every occasion. Alternatively, by having a more relaxed fit they can be casual too if that's more your style. A lightweight linen blazer, for example, is perfect for early autumn - structured enough to elevate your look, but breathable when the day warms up. Vinted and charity shops are great places to source quality blazers at a fraction of their full price.

Bomber jackets are still having a moment too. They add a little edge and look great with jeans or midi dresses if you prefer something more relaxed than a blazer.

Don’t Pack Away Those Summer Dresses Just Yet

Your summer dresses deserve more than three months of fame! You've heard me speak before about getting your wardrobe pieces to work hard for you. That means those dresses which take up valuable space in your wardrobe need to earn their place. So, get them working for you throughout autumn, and even into winter, by layering.

Here are some ideas:

💚 Midi dress + chunky boots + leather jacket

💚 Slip dress + fine roll-neck + tights

💚 Floral dress + oversized knit + ankle boots (use a belt if you need to give the knit shape)

💚 Midi dress + long sleeved top (underneath) + ankle boots

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Your Transitional Wardrobe Checklist

💚 Choose layers that look and make you feel great when worn on their own

💚 Consider breathable fabrics - e.g. cotton, linen, modal, silk

💚 Reimagine summer favourites for cooler days

💚 Invest in timeless outerwear - in one of your best neutrals so that it goes with lots of pieces in your wardrobe

💚 Know your best colours to get maximum mix and match options from your wardrobe

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Need Help Creating Outfits?

Standing in front of your wardrobe thinking, “I’ve got nothing to wear” or you just can't see the wood for the trees? You probably have plenty - it just needs a fresh, independent pair of eyes. As a personal stylist it's something I see frequently with my clients and I love helping create lots of "new" outfits with clothes you already own.

Book a Wardrobe Edit and I’ll help you rediscover your favourite pieces, restyle what you already own, and spot the gaps worth investing in. In 4 hours you'll have so much inspiration (and outfit photos) to refer to next time you're lacking imagination.

📩 Drop me an email if you’d like to chat about booking a session, or even just to chat about what I might be able to offer you to help with your wardrobe. I’d love to help you feel confident and clear about what truly suits you and what you enjoy wearing.