How to transition your wardrobe from summer to autumn

It’s hot. It’s cold. How are you ever meant to pick an outfit?

Leave the onesie at the back of your wardrobe along with the PVC maid’s outfit you never did surprise your husband with (Getty)

We've got into that indecisive, stuck in the middle time, where getting dressed becomes a far more daunting task come the end of August. Summer is winding down and autumn is on it’s way, but the weather just won’t make it’s mind up.

In other words, it’s transition season. A time when you can’t quite break out the heavy knits but the flouncy dresses you’ve lived in for months on end don’t quite cut it.

So, how can we make the shift both comfortably and fashionably?

While it might be tempting to consider a total closet overhaul and buy a whole load of new autumnal wares, keep in mind that with some strategic styling your favourite summer staples can be repurposed for cooler climes.

When the outside conditions are uncertain, the trick is to invest in staple items that can be worn both on their own or layered in the months ahead.

Here, we suggest some of the pieces to buy now that will help you through the tricky transition between summer and autumn.

Skirt

MOTO Khaki Mini Denim Skirt, £29, Topshop

Something that you probably have in your warm weather wardrobe already, a skirt is a serious multitasking item. Not only do they look great paired with white tennis shoes or sandals but, come September, they promise to look equally as stylish with a chunky knit and some boots.

If you’re looking to pick up a new piece, we recommend this stylish khaki denim skirt with frayed hem detailing, which ticks all the boxes.

Wide-leg Trousers

Stitch Fluid Crop Trouser, £119, Whistles

For last minute heatwaves a pair of wide leg trousers can be paired with an off-the-shoulder top or, if you’re brave enough, a bralet for an airy feel but keep them in mind for cooler days too when they can worn with a loose-fitting shirt or a half-tucked-in knit.

We love this cropped and high-waisted pair from Whistles which are great for instantly updating your trans-seasonal workwear wardrobe.

Turtleneck Knitwear

Polo Neck Sweater, £19.99, Zara

While a high-neck sweater isn’t ideal for warmer weather, wearing one does mean that you’ll get more mileage out of those floaty dresses – especially if you're not ready to let go of them. When a chill enters the air, simply layer underneath to keep wearing them well into Autumn.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with colours either, while black is a serious investment piece, opting for a turtleneck in an unsual colourway make well-worn summer garb feel like a new outfit every time.

Ankle Boots

Western Chelsea Leather Boots, £125, & Other Stories

Chelsea boots are a style that successfully thrives in fall and there are plenty of ways to wear boots during the warmer months too. While on colder days they look great worn with chunky knitwear and denim, you can also pair them with summer’s wispy dresses and ruffle skirts.

Our favourite is this pair of classic Chelsea boots with a modern western-inspired design. The pointy toe gives them a little flair while the chunky 4.5cm heel means they’re also super-practical for everyday wear.