Words by Danielle Whiteman
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Every year I forget how quickly things change when autumn arrives.
The cooler weather, shorter nights, temptation to put the heating on and the annual Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte announcement are all signs that it’s time to pack away your summer wardrobe.
However, this early autumnal period can be a tricky time to know what to wear, as it’s often chilly in the morning, but still warm in the afternoon. So here’s my guide for how to achieve the perfect transitional wardrobe by adding just a few staples.Layering is key when curating a transitional wardrobe, as temperatures can vary immensely throughout the day. A collection of lightweight pieces that can be styled just as beautifully for those end of summer days as they can for autumn is the goal. Something like a fine knit tank will literally be the hardest working item in your wardrobe and I love this H&M, Knitted Sweater Vest in Beige Marl, £18.99. Layer over sleeved summer dresses or a Peter Pan collar blouse. Or for a more formal look, pair with a white Oxford shirt, tailored trousers and loafers.
As we all know, women’s fashion can be so fast paced and styles come and go, but a wardrobe staple that never goes out of style and is interchangeable through the seasons is a classic Trench Coat. It’s brilliant for layering, but not too thick for autumn. This Warehouse, Maxi Trench Coat in Stone, £111.20 is a lovely option with a modern twist of a wide bell sleeve. Wear with a vintage wash jean and trainers, or over loungewear. A trench just adds that instant lift to any outfit.
A great jumpsuit is the perfect addition to update your wardrobe, being super-flattering and a great base for layering. I love a classic denim boiler-suit for this and this Mango, Long Denim Mid Wash Jumpsuit, £59.99 is perfect! Wear it layered under a knitted tank, cardigan or jumper – or wear alone undone with a tee underneath and layered with a trench coat and Converse Chucks (I adore Chuck 70 Vintage Canvas in Black, £80). This really is my favourite, casual look for autumn.
The humble cardigan had a big moment in 2020 and it looks like they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon! There are endless options available, but I love this slouch super soft Fluffy Jersey Cardigan in Nude from Reserved, £29.99. It’s perfect for layering (a recurring theme here), gorgeous over a white linen summer dress and Birkenstock, Boston Clogs in Desert Dust Grey Taupe, £90 (if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on them!) and socks for that ‘coastal grandma style’. Or pair with a vintage wash jean and trainers, layered over a tee – or a slip dress! The options are literally endless.
Lastly, and something which will take you from autumn and all the way through to winter is the simple knitted jumper dress, which is enjoying a bit of a comeback this season. A great foundation to an autumn/winter look, play it safe with biscuit tones, or add a pop of colour with this beautiful Blue Ribbed Knit Dress from Zara, £32.99. Wear with chunky boot and layer with a boxy wool blazer in a similar tone for an effortless, yet put together look.
Happy layering!
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Danielle Whiteman
Stylist
@danniiwhiteman
