6 Easy and Elegant Transitional Workwear Looks to See You Through Early Autumn
Office dressing during the "in-between" season is far less daunting with these six chic outfits.
The approach of autumn means the transitional season is looming. The answer isn’t to immediately pack away your summer clothes and replace them with chunky knits and big coats, but instead to ready your wardrobe with clever outfit builds that can handle the switchover with ease. Having to go into the office does make dressing for it that bit harder. The key to nailing a transitional workwear wardrobe is to have a rotation of capsule pieces that do all the hard work for you. It’s all about those smart, hardworking hero pieces you can mix to create so many different looks.
Hardworking doesn’t have to mean boring, though; don’t be afraid to bring texture, colour and interesting silhouettes into a workwear wardrobe. I’ve scoured the feeds of Instagram's best-dressed and found six transitional workwear outfits I'm convinced you'll love.
1. Relaxed Suit + Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: Worn as a coordinated look with a simple satin cami, or as mixed-and-matched separates, a chic suit is a great option for those who need a smarter dress code. Lison Sebellin's outfit (pictured above) is also a perfect example of how to wear heeled sandals to the office if you’re not quite ready to retire open-toed shoes just yet. Simply swap the clutch for a larger bag, and you’re set.
Shop the Look:
Wear with the matching trousers or with a white tee and jeans.
Such a versatile basic that feels more elevated than a cotton cami.
These are available in sizes 4–24.
Such a versatile shoe that instantly elevates an outfit.
Big enough for all of your daily essentials, including your laptop.
2. Shirt + Slim Indigo-Wash Jeans + Pointed Heels
Style Notes: Jeans can absolutely be worn to the office; it’s just about finding the right pair. Go for either an indigo or black wash, and a slim or straight leg as opposed to a baggy cut. Throw on a shirt and a lightweight cashmere knit (or tie it around your shoulders), add a low heel, and you're good to go.
Shop the Look:
This also comes in sky blue and stripes.
Such a good price for 100% cashmere.
Agolde denim will last you a lifetime.
This brown-toned burgundy is so versatile.
Such a good everyday pair.
3. White Shirt + V-Neck Jumper + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Hannah Lewis’ look is the perfect transitional outfit for polished work-to-weekend style. The shirt layered under the V-neck jumper creates depth and texture and is ideal for those chillier autumn days. Tailored trousers are equally versatile, and her choice of grey gives a softer finish than black, making them ideal to mix with other tones.
Shop the Look:
Look after this and it'll last you forever.
Vince is known for its high-quality, super-soft knits.
This is a look I'd wear outside of the office, too.
Toteme has perfected sleek, minimalist shoes.
A quiet-luxury icon.
4. Bright Shirt + Black Midi Skirt + Loafers
Style Notes: This feels more like conventional office-wear, but that doesn't make it stuffy. Teaming a shirt with a midi skirt is nothing new, but opting for a brighter colour makes it feel more directional and brightens things up a bit. Sleek loafers will mean you'll be comfortable all day without having to change into something more suitable for work.
Shop the Look:
A fashion-editor-approved shirt.
You'd get so many workwear looks out of this.
It's clear why Saint Laurent's loafers are so sought- after.
I can't decide if I prefer the black or brown.
Silver jewellery is really having a moment right now.
5. Long-Sleeved Top + Suede Skirt + Bright Jumper
Style Notes: A simple white long-sleeved top is office-appropriate if styled well. Tucking it into a sleek skirt does the job, and opting for a suede style will earn you extra points for bringing some texture into an autumnal look. Inject a pop of colour by adding a bright jumper, even if it’s just over your shoulders.
Shop the Look:
This soft pistachio shade is so good.
Such a good basic.
A chocolate-brown suede skirt in autumn? Yes, yes, yes.
A classic Christian Louboutin court heel is well-made, versatile and timeless: the definition of a good investment buy.
This will take you from your desk to drinks with ease.
6. Longline Cardigan + A-Line Skirt + T-Bar Heels
Style Notes: This is a much more minimalist outfit, but it still makes an impact (in a toned-down way). Styling a longline or cinched-waist cardigan with an A-line skirt creates a more structured silhouette that gives a refined, polished finish. Keep accessories simple and opt for a classic T-bar heel and black leather bag.
Shop the Look:
The cinched waist creates such a sleek shape.
Bhoēm is my new favourite brand.
Classic T-bar heels will always be elegant.
A designer bag is an investment, but it'll last in your wardrobe for years to come.
Le Specs sunglasses look designer.
