Transitional dressing—that in-between style we have to navigate before winter actually sets in, leaving us to hibernate inside oversize cosy knits—isn't easy. It's a funny time for fashion. We're surrounded by winter newness in stores with the fresh drops of coats, boots and knits, and yet we're still (hopefully) getting plenty of wear out of our floral dresses. Then we have the autumn showers to deal with—making a clever transitional wardrobe particularly important, and there are a few key items that straddle between all the seasons and are a necessity for unpredictable (usually rubbish!) British weather.
If you're looking to invest in something new that you can wear now and wear later, look no further than the pieces I've selected below. Outfit inspiration whatever the weather, these pieces will see you through the seasons in style. Keep reading to see the autumn winners I love and how I'll style them on different days.
#1. The Trench Coat
Trench coats work just as well with a summer wardrobe as they do a winter one. A trench is the most versatile, classic piece you will ever own, so if you don't already have one you love, I urge you to invest. I adore the way one can instantly smarten up those simple jeans-and-a-tee looks. During the summer, I added bright accessories with my trench, and on colder autumn days, I layer over a knit and pair with loafers.
On Em: Add light layers so that you can still wear your sandals.
On Em: Wear slogan knits with colour block shoes to lift your trench and jeans pairing.
SHOP TRENCH COATS
#2. Ankle Boots
Chances are you already own (or are looking to buy) a pair of ankle boots in preparation for the chillier months. We say don't wait to wear them—team them now with pretty dresses to toughen up a pretty summer outfit you're still hanging on to. Chunky, flat boots with laces seem to be the style to go for this A/W—a versatile, wear-with-anything boot if I ever saw one. Midi dresses are another must-have transitional piece - opt for darker, autumnal florals for a fresh feel.
On Em: A chunky boot can toughen up a girlie summery dress in an instant.
On Em: Moody florals teamed with black biker boots in the perfect autumn look.
SHOP ANKLE BOOTS:
Related: The 4 Golden Rules of Shopping at Urban Outfitters
#3. Leather Skirt
Leather is something you'd usually associate with colder months, but while I wore my leather mini in summer set against bare legs with a t-shirt, for autumn it's all about layers. Pair a leather pencil with a tee and loafers for an everyday transitional outfit, and when the chill sets in, simply throw on a jumper and khaki jacket for a similarly casual take.
On Em: Mix a vintage band tee with a leather mini for a classic look that'll never date.
On Em: When it gets chillier, just add more layers like chunky knits and transitional lightweight jackets.
SHOP LEATHER SKIRTS:
Next up, the only autumn/winter 18 trends you need to know.
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