Transitional Dressing

Tue 12 Sep 2023

We may just have experienced a mini heat wave in the UK but the temperatures are going to drop and we can properly get our head into autumn dressing and making sure our wardrobes are ready. In the past I have spoken about wardrobe staples and key items for your wardrobe to have as building blocks for the season. This concept has not changed and I strongly encourage everyone to consider this. Not only does it help you create your own style but these pieces will be in your wardrobe season after season, especially if you can buy more premium versions. Staples are not the same for everyone, however there will be some cross over depending on the final look and style you would like to create for yourself. The pieces I am going to talk about are perfect transitional items for your wardrobe now and then throughout the coming months when styled differently. Transitional dressing is mixing and matching items from your summer and winter wardrobe to create new looks.

Trench Coat

Long or short this is a timeless piece for your wardrobe. The shape can be slim, classic, relaxed or oversized. Colours can be traditional stone, camel, black, navy or khaki or perhaps you would like to make a statement in a bold colour.

Blazer

A blazer can really finish an outfit and create a styled look. It is a great transitional piece to wear through these earlier autumn months before it gets too chilly. Once the temperature drops further we can then layer heavier, warmer outerwear over a blazer too. A blazer can be worn both formally and casually. 

Stripe Knit

Stripe knits will never date and can be dressed up or down. Wear with jeans, loafers and a trench coat or over a slip dress with boots. This can be a jumper or a cardigan in heavy or a lightweight knit depending on your preference.

Knitted Dress

A knitted dress is a key piece for autumn winter 2023 but is also a great wardrobe staple and will see you through the transitional periods of each season. Knitted, ribbed and pointelle dresses can we worn now with sandals and then add boots and tights for winter.

White Shirt

A white shirt is most definitely a wardrobe staple that will see you through all seasons. It is a simple and smart item that never goes out of fashion. So if you are looking to make your wardrobe more sustainable then this capsule item is a must. They can be fitted, loose or even stolen from your partners’ wardrobe if you want the oversized look.

Waistcoat

Wear them now on their own but as the weather starts to get cooler then they can be layered over shirts and long sleeve tops. A wider leg shape for trousers balances the outfit, these can be tailored trousers in the same fabric or a contrast to the waistcoat or a nice baggy denim jean. The outfit can be styled up with heels or down with trainers or sandals while it is still warm enough. There is lots of choice on the high street at the moment if you want to invest in this piece but also be sure to check out preloved sites and charity shops.

White Tank Top

This is such a versatile piece and all of our wardrobes should have at least one. They can be a simple tank style or a racer style for more of a sporty look. A white tank looks simple and sophisticated with a smart tailored trouser and stylish with denim but will also work with our summer skirts and then layered under blazers, jackets and knitwear for autumn winter.

Denim Skirt

A classic denim midi skirt has been the focus of many outfits for a couple of seasons now and this shape is one that will never date. Wear now with a vest and sandals but then add knitwear and a jacket when the weather gets cooler.

Satin Skirt / Dress

If you still have your satin skirts or dresses from the 90s then pull them out of your wardrobe! These pieces are great to add a different texture to your outfit and are great for both daywear and eveningwear. Wear now with t shirts or a tank top and sandals and then with boots and knitwear when the temperature drops.

Wide Leg Tailored Trouser

A nice tailored trouser is a staple for any wardrobe and there are lots on the high street or preloved for you to choose from. These look great worn in a relaxed way with sandals and trainers and then can be worn with loafers, ballet pumps and boots for a more formal look.

Cigarette Trouser

A slimmer leg trouser that is perfect for styling in a smart or casual way and will make your outfit look instantly sophisticated. Dress down with a tee shirt and trainers or make them look smarter with your loafers and a satin shirt.

Ballet Pumps, Loafers, Ankle Boots and Trainers

Each of these are classic footwear items to finish off your outfits and there are multiple variations of all of them, so find the one you like the most and suits your style.

All of the above images have been taken from Pinterest, which is a great platform to get inspiration for outfits and pieces you may want to add to your wardrobe.

I hope that you have found this blog helpful and it's inspired you to add some key items into your wardrobe to build new looks for the coming season. As always if you would like help with your wardrobe and style then please get in touch and I would be more than happy to help.

Nerys x