Until last year I never considered myself much of an autumnal dresser. My style has always leant towards windswept dresses that are apt for balmy temperatures. As I approach my mid-thirties, I’m embracing styles that caress, in rich tones that feel characteristically autumn. Considering the forecast we’ve been granted thus far, I’ve been thrust into the realm of autumn dressing prematurely. I have to admit, it’s inspired me, especially when revisiting some of my favourite A/W shows from February. Last week’s Copenhagen Fashion Week saw temperatures drop and attendees donning windswept umbrellas and clad in elongated lengths. Although it was a far cry from last year’s summery styles, it presented us with a smorgasbord of deep hues, textures and juxtaposed fabrications — signalling the start of transitional dressing.
There are many transitional pieces I’ve adopted as part of my uniform and both summer and autumn looks can be built with and around them. White full skirts, for example (which happens to be a trending piece this year). The bright wash and airy voile compliments fuzzy knitwear beautifully. The same goes for accessories. If you’re enjoying basket bags this season, consider investing in a leather patina you can wear with sundresses or trench coats and blazers.
The key to dressing for transitional seasons is layers that you can either pile up or shed. Take Sylvie’s look — the svelte and flesh-baring elements of a silken dress are appropriate for warm weather, but pop a trench coat over the top and it instantly transforms into an autumn-appropriate outfit. When it rains, swap open-toe shoes for heeled boots. Or, Marina’s look. A boxy leather jacket will serve you well in neither here nor there weather conditions and sunglasses lend the look an intentionality.
Scroll down to see and shop the easy autumn outfits I have in my back pocket for the transitional seasons and beyond.
1. Slip Dress + Trench Coat
Style Notes: Make like Sylvie and play on lengths to make the most out of your summer wardrobe. You can wear this outfit well into autumn with closed-toe shoes and hosiery.
Shop the look:
The resemblance to the vintage Burberry trench coat is uncanny — from the concealed buttons to the double-belted cuffs. I'm so impressed.
Every woman can do with a silky slip dress in their arsenal. There are many ways to style this. Wear knitwear over the top when the temperature tops, or with a blazer (open or belted).
Parisian retailer Soeur has my heart. Its bags are always timeless. They're made to be worn regardless of seasonal trends.
Winnoh specialises in wide-fit footwear that's expertly crafted from sustainably sourced materials.
2. Boxy Leather Jacket + Mid-Wash Jeans
Style Notes: The smartened leather jacket isn't going anywhere for autumn. I plan on taking notes from Marisa and styling mine with straight-fit indigo denim and a crew neck t-shirt.
Shop the look:
I'm not usually one for leather jackets but I'm on board with this vintage-style (and slightly) boxy silhouette.
Second to the fit, the hue of denim is so important. If you want your denim to look elevated, opt for deep tones and orangey threading (as opposed to yellow). This is a great example.
You may be familiar with Polène for its handbags but did you know they also craft small leather goods from discarded materials?
Otiumberg's newly released pendant bears a dainty chain. Just add your choice of initials.
Le Specs is a fantastic mid-price sunglasses retailer if you're looking to make an investment that's a step up from the high street.
I'm very much in agreeance that animal print is a neutral.
3. Floral Blouse + Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Tanice makes a good case for transitioning the floral adornment into autumn. We may have moved onto feathers but I'm a floral girl at heart, so this style is for life. Look for sleeved styles to adapt to the weather.
Shop the look:
Fabulously '80s. I have my eye on this for Fashion Week.
If any brand could convert me to a washed black denim, it'll be Agolde.
Dear Frances' spirit boots have been lauded since its initial release in 2016. The Imani boot is a slender iteration with an elongated heel.
4. Cashmere Knit + White Jeans + Trench
Style Notes: Bright denim is a guaranteed way to warm up any look. Tie the look together with a transitional knit, loafers and a relaxed trench. I plan on taking my fashion cues from Brittany and adding a silk scarf.
Shop the look:
Navy Grey knitwear is an investment for life. Composed of 100% fine merino wool, it's an adaptable piece for the in-between seasons.
A smartened jeans look, courtesy of Finery London.
I'll let you in on a secret. I prefer Le Scarf's offerings to Toteme!
I adore woven leather bags for the transitional seasons. It carries the element of basket bags through to the autumn.
If you've read any of my pieces, you'll know my love of pearl treasures.
There are many loafer styles available to date. The scrunched leather lends this a preppy element.
5. Lightweight Cardigan + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Embrace knitwear early and style light knits with free-flowing tailored trousers. It's modern suiting at its finest. Add a trench coat for added warmth.
Shop the look:
Whenever transitional months hit, I'm reminded of the importance of investing in quality knitwear you can rely on year after year.
A year after its initial release and Gelso continues to be my favourite The Frankie Shop range.
Look no further than Been London, if you're looking for a sustainable brand to add to your handbag repertoire.
A slight sheen to decorate your decolletage.
A silk trench coat is something I'm thoroughly on board with, especially during the transitional months. Jigsaw's been spoiling us to the suavest of trench coats of late.
A new and timeless release from Prada. It's a similar frame to my beloved Celine Triomphe that's forever sold out.
I'm forever lusting over Manolo Blahnik mules and I've come to realise it's the shape I adore the most. Enter Reformation's Wilda Mule. It boasts the same pointed-toe shaping, slip-on element and just the right amount of heel for everyday wear.
6. Full Skirt + Blazer
Style Notes: You don't have to retire your cotton skirts when the seasons change. Instead, pair voluminous skirts with layers and throw-on outerwear.
Shop the look:
If you're looking for an elevation of the crew neck t-shirt, piping adds an element of sports luxe.
The composition of this blazer doesn't include polyester which is quite rare with suiting.
I wear dresses almost 80% of the time, so full skirts are my jeans equivalent. Wear this just as you would denim!
Demellier offerings are always refined. The gold accent on the black always looks polished.
The power of accessories will never cease to amaze me, and Roop's pieces, for that matter.
The chicest ballet flats I've seen on the high street this season. They're ever so reminiscent of the Chanel ballet flat, sans the monogramming, but there's something nice about the subtlety.
Up Next: The Autumn 2023 Shopping Guide: Where to Buy This Year's Season-Defining Trends
-
I Haven't Worn a Dress in a Year, But These 37 From Reformation Are Making Me Want to Change ThatJust slip these on.
-
Before It's Over, See the Chicest Dresses to Buy From Reformation's 30%-Off SaleFrom minis to midis.
-
Everyone, Stop—Reformation's Huge Sale Is Here, and You Need to See These 49 Pretty FindsScore 30% off so many amazing items.
-
Not to Sound Dramatic, But I'm Convinced That This Is the Best Reformation Has Ever BeenAll the chicest new items for fall 2025 have arrived.
-
I'm a Gen Z Shopping Editor—These Are the Coolest Pieces on Reformation, Revolve, and Shopbop RNThey're giving NYC It girl.
-
I Just Got Back From NYC, and Now, I Want to Order These 7 Trends From ReformationMy cart is very full.
-
Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
