As summer bids farewell, some of us are wondering if it ever arrived! But preparation for the cooler months is almost here! So where exactly do you even start to transition your wardrobe from summer into winter?
Having a good think about our wardrobes and what we might want to purchase to bridge the gap into winter is critical. Particularly, if you want to look and feel polished and put together.It will also help you if you are planning on hitting the shops to browse the sales or peruse the new season style.Finding the right pieces to layer and combine will not only keep you cozy but also ensure you look stylish. Here’s your guide to mastering transitional style for a seamless changeover.
The Power of Layers
Layering is essential in transitional dressing. As temperatures fluctuate, layering allows you to adjust your outfit accordingly. Start with a lightweight base layer, like a fitted t-shirt or a breathable long-sleeve shirt. Over this, add a versatile cardigan or jacket for those mild autumn days. As winter approaches, incorporate a thicker coat or a stylish trench to keep warm.
Investment in great base layers is the one thing that most people miss out on. The mindset that cheap and cheerful will do, as nobody sees them is a fools game. Rather buy something like this, that will wash well and serve you over a longer time
Read more: How to transition your wardrobe from summer into winter 2024…..and more, keep scrolling!Fabric Choices Matter
Choosing the right fabrics is crucial to how you feel in your clothes during all seasons, but especially as you layer up and want to feel comfortable. Look for materials that provide warmth without being overly heavy. Cotton, wool blends, and cashmere are excellent options. Opt for breathable fabrics that can keep you comfortable during the fluctuating temperatures. For instance, a lightweight cashmere sweater can be paired with a summer dress for a chic layered look. Buy cheap knits at your peril! They will feel irritating on your skin and look cheap after a couple of washes
Versatile Footwear
Time to hide the tootsies away for another few months, or at least until your next sunshine holiday! Trainers have been growing in trend for all occasions for years now and aren’t going anywhere. However, think about other flat shoe options to make your look a little smarter, while still comfortable. These are so like the Ganni design but at a more affordable price. Shop flat buckled pointy here Ankle boots are perfect for this time of year, as they can be worn with both summer dresses and autumn outfits. More to come from me on boots for the season!
Autumn Colour and Print
As summer colours fade, don’t be tempted to jump back into black! Black up our faces, for most people is draining. Unless you are a winter season palette! Instead, embrace the rich and warm tones of autumn. Earthy shades like rust, olive green, deep burgundy, and mustardy saffron yellow are perfect for this transition. There are tones and shades of these colours to suit you even if you are not in the autumn colour palette. I am loving seeing lots of beautiful claret red which is just stunning worn as a column of colour, and particularly if you want to strike an impression. There is a beautiful mulberry and magenta in the shops too that are just so classy! Incorporate these colours into your wardrobe with scarves, sweaters, and accessories. Additionally, don’t shy away from patterns—florals can still be worn in darker tones, while plaids and checks add a seasonal touch. The AW24 catwalks showed lots of tweed and country style that will be so gorgeous in the colder days.
Check out more information on colour analysis with me
Don’t forget to accessorize!
Accessories play an important role in transitional style, and every season. So many forget about this step, and it can be a reasonably cost-effective way to change up your outfit. A statement scarf can add warmth, and a new season look. Opt for chunky knit scarves in warm colours or patterns to keep you cozy. Hats and headscarves are making a comeback, not just for your dog-walks!
Transitional Dresses
Think about wearing your dresses with a few adjustments, to “winterize” them. Look for midi or maxi dresses that can easily be layered with a lightweight base layer underneath or paired with a casual jacket.
As winter approaches, add tights and knee-high boots to keep warm while still looking chic. I often wear leggings and a sandal with my summer dresses, to keep me warm enough as the temperatures drop. Perfect for beer garden drinks into the evening! I love this denim dress from Oliver Bones, I bought a similar one last year and I wore it a lot!
Functional Outerwear
Purchasing a new winter coat is my favourite bit of moving into my winter wardrobe. You will be wearing it a lot so it’s worth investing in quality and maximum wearability. A classic woollen coat is an essential in my opinion and can be worn both smart and casual. I am also loving the bomber jackets that are popping up for the new season – both casual ones like this one in Whistles or this very classy version in Marella
Transitioning from summer to winter is all about balancing comfort and style. By incorporating layers, selecting the right fabrics, and choosing versatile pieces, you can create a wardrobe that adapts to the changing seasons. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace the beauty of autumn and the chill of winter in 2024, all while looking effortlessly fashionable. So, refresh your wardrobe and step into the new season with confidence!
Personal Diary
I can’t believe that the summer is almost over and the kids are getting ready to go back to school! In Northern Ireland we have had almost no warm sunny weather at all, and a lot of rain. I try not to complain too much as we were very lucky to get to Puglia, Italy for a week in June, which was a definite highlight.
We made some exciting plans for next summer that I will share over the coming months. But aside from that, we fell in love with Monopoli a little bit more, got to wear the summer dresses and drank many Aperol spritz!
Those of you that know me personally will know that my summer has been marked by the sadness of my Dad’s death. We were expecting this eventuality, but the sadness and finality of it is something that I am only just processing now and it’s going to take time.
The lovely positive part of this is the closeness that I have felt with my family which has helped enormously.
Since that happened in June I have been taking some time away from work, but now very much back up to speed. Although I need to increase my video content again. Let’s be honest, talking to the camera isn’t something that anyone really wants to do when the mood is gloomy and eyes puffy.
We have spent much of the summer in our holiday home in Donegal, both by ourselves and with the kids. When they are with us, the time is spent pier jumping and lots of food prep. I really enjoy spending time in the kitchen with family, usually a glass of wine in hand and preparing something tasty.
Our next big thing is Coldplay in September – I have wanted to see them for as long as I can remember so the excitement is building now!
Brand of the week: Marella
This is an Italian contemporary brand belonging to Maxmara group, established in 1988. So its not a new brand at all. In fact I can remember my Mum wearing it.
The reason it has come to my attention, is that the first, stand alone store in the UK, for Marella has opened in Arthur Street, Belfast in the last 2 months. And you really must visit if you can.
It is “affordable designer wear” rather than high street. The heart of the brand is a strong, multi-faceted and changeable female identity, capable of seduction, intelligence and good taste.
