Our guide to the season-less sartorial staples that are practical enough for every day, without forsaking style.
When it comes to what’s in your wardrobe, there are the light, breezy pieces you know you can turn to in high summer, along with the heavyweight layers you know will have you covered in the depths of winter. But what about all those days (and outfits) that fall somewhere in between? The key to transseasonal autumn dressing is keeping things fresh by injecting practical pieces that work hard in your wardrobe, without sacrificing a constant sense of style. Investing in a few key pieces that will translate across various occasions means you’ll always have the right outfit on hand: think wear-anywhere dresses, fine knits and lightweight coats that will see you through the year without a second thought.
The wear-anywhere dress
When the temperature starts to drop, it can be easy to overlook typically “high summer” pieces in favour of the idea of an entirely new wardrobe. But that need not be the case. Dresses in floaty, mid-length styles are versatile silhouettes that never date, meaning they’ll bridge the gap between the seasons with ease. What’s more, florals and organic prints work as well in the height of summer as they do under a trench when the leaves start to fall: simply swap out your sandals for a sneaker or boot.
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The midi skirt
With minimal effort, the midi skirt instantly gives any outfit a sense of polish. Plenty of new-season versions are giving the classic style a modern spin, allowing you to instantly elevate lightweight knits, shirting and tees. Wear yours with a sneaker or heeled boot now, then keep on hand for spring/summer to pair with a tank and your favourite pair of sandals.
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The light- to mid-weight knit
They don’t call it “sweater weather” for nothing: knitwear is a year-round essential that in the cooler months serves as an almost daily go-to. Take stock of your existing knits and freshen where appropriate – whether in a new cut or fit, or an of-the-moment print or colourway. A rollneck sweater in a neutral colourway will prove super versatile, whether worn under a dress or with trousers and a coat, while a jumper in a beautiful hue (such as this one from Morrison) is a statement in and of itself. Cardigans have made a bona fide return of late, and aren’t going anywhere. Button it up for a polished look for Zoom meetings, then wear undone over T-shirts and dresses when the weekend rolls around. Pop a crossbody bag on to break up any blockiness and keep the silhouette flattering.
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The lightweight coat or jacket
In the cool months, a lightweight trench coat and a great tailored blazer are essential for adding stylish layers no matter the weather. Wear them open for a certain sense of ease, or belted and with a heeled boot for a more polished look. If in doubt go for a classic style in a versatile colourway, which return season after season: remember the goal here is for maximum wear, and you can let the rest of your outfit do the heavy lifting when it comes to trends.
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The white sneaker
The sneaker may come in just after the trackpant as the sartorial MVP of the pandemic, but it will carry you well into the seasons to come. The most versatile of all is undeniably the white sneaker – whether in a streamlined style or something a little chunkier. Use it to add a fresh feel to a dress or skirt, or pair with a cropped pant and a coloured sock for extra style cred. But the true joy of a pair of sneakers is that they’re as comfortable as they look.
