Embrace the layers as we step into autumn for a smart solution to those weather wardrobe woes, says Amy Norbury.
AUTUMN’S arrival rarely announces itself with certainty. One moment, there’s a chill in the air sharp enough to see your breath; the next, you’re squinting through sunshine and wondering why you wore a coat. Dressing for this most temperamental of seasons is less about following strict rules and more about strategy. And at the heart of that strategy? Layering.
Transitional dressing can feel like navigating a sartorial minefield. A structured wool coat might seem sensible for a frosty morning start, but come the evening commute, it’s less “street style” and more “sweating in transit.” Meanwhile, deceptively clear skies can lull even the most seasoned dressers into leaving outerwear behind – only for the heavens to open without warning.
So how do you curate a wardrobe that works with the unpredictability, not against it?
The key is to build looks that evolve with the weather. Lightweight layers – think fine knits, cotton shirting, lightweight jackets – offer the kind of flexibility no single piece ever could. You’re not locking yourself into a look; you’re giving yourself options.
Once the quiet classic of your grandma’s wardrobe, the cardigan is now a bona fide fashion mainstay. Reimagined in a plethora of ways, from cropped silhouettes to effortlessly louche, bold textures to intricate detailing, the humble cardi is a layering must. Worn draped over a dress, tucked into high-waisted denim, or layered beneath a trench, it’s the unsung hero of the modern transitional wardrobe.
Outerwear, too, demands a rethink. The days of lugging around a weighty winter coat “just in case” are over. Instead, reach for outer layers that work harder: a belted trench – equal parts practical and polished– or a sharply tailored longline blazer that brings structure without the bulk. Layer over a turtleneck, under a sleeveless coat, or style solo with wide-leg trousers for effortless elegance.
And don’t be too quick to retire your summer favourites. The T-shirt dress is a transitional staple with plenty of runway potential, even as the temperature dips. Pair with knee-high boots, crisp striped shirts and layered knits for a fresh lease of life well into autumn.
In the end, transitional style isn’t about compromise – it’s about creativity. Think layers, embrace versatility, and let your wardrobe rise to the occasion, whatever the weather decides to do.