I don’t know about you, but the older I get, the more I desire a streamlined and easy wardrobe. I want each piece in my closet to look great, feel comfortable and hold up for many seasons. Sure, I’m occasionally a sucker for a pair of trendy jeans, that “too cute to pass up” dress that I really don’t need, or that nutty vacation purchase (quirky sun hats and beach coverups, anyone?).
Owning a few classic transitional pieces is essential during this time between late summer and early fall, when the weather is notoriously unpredictable. Some days still feel like beach weather, while others have you grabbing your coziest sweater and hunting pumpkin lattes. But, with the right staples, you can extend the life of a great summer dress, midi skirt, cropped jeans or shorts straight into fall. By layering, mixing and matching warm-weather styles with some more substantial pieces, you can get more use out of almost anything in your closet.
Here in the Bay Area, most of us have learned to cultivate a wardrobe of transitional pieces. Our weather usually falls within the 50-to-70-degree range year long, but thanks to the fog and topography, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically from neighborhood to neighborhood. A San Francisco girl can’t own enough lightweight jackets and vests, and we’re skilled in the art of layering.
Here, 10 classic transition pieces you should have in your wardrobe.
1. Denim Jacket
As versatile as it gets, the classic jean jacket goes everywhere with you, especially when the temperatures start to dip in early fall. Throw it over a breezy summer dress or jumpsuit that you’re not quite ready to move to the back of the closet, or pair it with your favorite jeans, trousers or shorts. I adore this soft, slightly fitted one from Paige, along with this lightweight stunner in white. If you can’t decide between finishes, check out this classic style that’s available in several washes. Three other picks you’ll Iive in year-round: A slightly cropped trucker style with a little sherpa for added warmth, an oversized cut with an ’80s vibe, and a tailored look that comes in a range of vibrant hues.
2. Button-Down Cardigan
A cozy button-down sweater is another essential layering piece that allows you to wear that summer dress well into autumn. Something in merino wool or cozy cashmere is a classic that can be thrown on top of your outfit or over your shoulders when the temperature dips. A deep-V or cozy wool version with billowy sleeves are equally stylish picks. A cropped cardigan pairs beautifully with your favorite pair of jeans and a tank. If you prefer your cardigans longer, a duster is a fun, wear-anywhere look.
3. Trench Coat
Not just for rainy days, a lightweight trench in a neutral color is a wardrobe staple. Besides shielding you from the elements, it adds a little drama and sophistication to a dress, jumpsuit or skirt, or even your favorite pair of jeans. Try a double-breasted twill style for work, or a single-breasted version for more casual days. A cropped trench is a trendier pick that pairs well with shorter skirts, while a relaxed double-breasted number can take you from day to evening with ease. Wear your trench unbuckled and unbuttoned in balmier weather for a carefree, early-fall look.
4. Shirt Dress
This classic dress is as versatile as it gets. Of course, it can be worn alone. But it can also be layered over over a tank dress, shorts, tights or leggings—either buttoned up and belted, partially buttoned up and belted, or left open like a jacket. For added warmth, layer a sweater vest or light jacket over it, or rock it with a pair of knee-high boots. The best thing about shirt dresses is that there are so many styles from which to choose: A classic midi is a great year-round option. A silk version can be dressed up or down. A casual short-sleeved number is the perfect weekend outfit. A high-low option is the ultimate in minimalist chic. And a menswear-inspired pinstripe version is feminine power dressing at its finest.
5. Sleeveless Shift
This dress is one of the most flexible and easy-to-wear layering pieces out there. Wear it alone during those last days of summer—or first days of fall. As the temperatures drop, layer it over a bodysuit or top it with a cardigan, blazer or bomber. Try a retro mock-neck style, a lightweight print version or a cute dress with a fly-away back for fun. A button-collared A-line style makes a statement, while a well-made splurge will occupy your closet for years.
6. Relaxed Cargo Joggers
Another year-round wardrobe staple is any type of pant that you often reach for that pairs as easily with a tank top as with a sweater or jacket. This pant should also be able to take you from day to night with a switch of footwear. Boyfriend jeans are a great option, but my favorite all-season pant is a relaxed, slightly cropped cargo jogger in a finer fabric. This silhouette can be worn with sneakers for more casual outings, or with pumps or sandals for evening. Top your joggers with a breezy cami when it’s warm outside, or with a mock turtleneck, blazer or sweater on cool autumn days. A mid-rise style is on-trend. A draped utility pant is a worthy splurge. Satin cargos are fitting for a night on the town. A more casual style takes you everywhere. And a shorter cut is a good choice for petites.
7. Lightweight Blazer
A good blazer is one of those workhorse pieces that adds a sophisticated layer to almost any outfit. A boxy ’80s cut livens up a pair of vintage jeans and your favorite novelty T-shirt. You can’t go wrong with a tailored style, like this single-breasted blazer in stretch wool, which can be worn over a dress on chilly early-autumn nights. A double-breasted plaid charmer makes a classic white shirt pop, while an oversized jacket looks great with your favorite summer shorts, skirts and just about everything else. If you’re a “must have it in every color” girl, this budget pick can’t be beat. And if a splurge-worthy statement is what you’re seeking, this dreamy checker-print style is worth a look.
8. Classic White Shirt
If this oldie but goodie doesn’t yet have a home in your closet, by all means invite it in. We all know that designer Carolina Herrera elevated this basic to cult status, but there are so many styles, cuts and fabrics from which to choose. Take a lightweight white shirt (like this very current oversized style) into fall by unbuttoning it over a tank or dress and belting it. Alternatively, use a tailored or more fitted style as a foundation piece under a great jacket, cropped sweater or vest. A trendy cropped version feels just right with high-waisted jeans and skirts, while a style with voluminous sleeves pairs beautifully with a form-fitting vest. A flowing style can dress up a pair of trousers or a a midi skirt, and a long-collared stunner with a ’70s vibe looks great peeking out from under a blazer.
9. Vest
From suit styles to cozy and collegiate sweater versions, the vest is back in a big way. This versatile piece can spruce up a collared shirt, T-shirt, dress or blouse-and-skirt combo—you name it. It can even be worn sans under layer (hey, if you’ve got great arms, flaunt them). Now that ’90s style is all the rage, a fitted vest that either Monica or Rachel would reach for is the ticket. If you prefer something that seems plucked from your most stylish guy friend’s closet, choose a menswear-inspired cropped style, houndstooth look or twill version. If you like your vests soft and cuddly, try a fun retro print, a relaxed knit or cashmere number. For a more modern spin, opt for a long vest, an oversized cut or zip-up cable knit. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly style, this could be it.
10. Shawl/Cape/Poncho
If there’s one staple that can bridge the gap between summer and fall—and work with many of the aforementioned pieces—it’s a cozy, lightweight and packable outer layer that can be draped over more summery outfits when temps drop. An elegant open-front sweater style is ideal for travel. A cashmere wrap is a great investment (and particularly versatile in a robe-like cut). Both a luxury cape and a poncho-style hoodie are season-less, especially in a wool blend. And a cape scarf is perfectly proportioned for more petite women.
