I'm currently in the process of turning my spare room into a walk-in wardrobe (yes, it's the viral IKEA Pax hack), so a mass cleanse is underway. But as a fashion editor with a lot of clothes, I'm still having to prioritise the pieces I'll be wearing the most over the next few months. The only issue is, whilst summer is still in full swing, autumn is fast approaching, so is it best to focus on shorts and cami tops or knitwear and jackets? I've decided that the answer is both.
The awkward time between summer and autumn can be tricky to navigate, but it's all about merging the seasons with cleverly layered looks that don't sit entirely in one seasonal box. To further explain what I mean, I took it upon myself to gather some transitional outfit inspiration from some of the most stylish women I follow. I found five outfits, all of which will serve us well throughout this tricky period. Think drummer jackets with jeans and sandals and oversized jumpers with sporty shorts and flip-flops. Meanwhile, key pieces—including a shirt, a cropped trench and the humble T-shirt—are coming into full fruition. Scroll for the effortless outfits to copy over the next few weeks using items you most likely already have in your wardrobe.
5 Summer-to-Autumn Transitional Outfit Ideas to Copy in 2026
1. Cropped Trench + Satin Top + Balloon Trousers
Style Notes: If we have to be back in jackets, they should be a worthy addition to our outfits, right? A cropped trench is the perfect style to bridge the gap between seasons, and I love how Hannah Lewis (pictured above) has elevated hers with volume and texture in the form of balloon trousers with satin and suede.
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To get Hannah's oversized look, size up once, or even twice.
I've just ordered this Topshop top with the tassel tie—too cute.
If you're not ready to swap summer shorts for jeans, voluminous balloon trousers are the answer.
A forever buy.
It's time to dig out your suede accessories.
2. Long-Sleeved T-Shirt + Short-Sleeved T-shirt + Midi Skirt
Style Notes: Clever layering is Nnenna Echem's speciality, and this time, she's focused on stacking tops. This microtrend was already huge in summer, and it's following through into autumn too. This is such an easy way to adjust to the changing temperatures without swaddling up (and later sweating) in a jacket or coat.
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Since Copenhagen Fashion Week, we all know aqua will continue to be a super popular colour trend next season.
This COS T-shirt is perfectly weighty.
I'll also be wearing this with a checked shirt come autumn.
Verafied is one of my favourite mid-range handbag brands.
I love the ruching!
3. Jumper + Sporty Shorts + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: I'll forever love a look that's autumn on top, summer on the bottom. Whether it's a knit and sporty shorts (as seen above on Aimee Song) or a jacket zipped up with a skirt, it's the perfect formula for the in-between transitional period.
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The cosiest knit by British label Slow Love.
Make sure to pop the collar like Aimee.
I want the track jacket, too.
Shop the matching Logo Embroidered Shell Jacket (£355)
In 2026, the bigger your sunglasses, the better.
I'll be wearing flip-flops until the weather forces me not to.
4. Fitted Shirt + Canvas Jacket + Utility Trousers
Style Notes: This is one of those looks I would happily wear to the office. I'll forever back the power of a shirt layered over a vest top, and 18-year-old me, who didn't leave the house without a statement necklace of some kind, is so glad they're back.
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The drawstring waist is key.
A light-pink shirt is as fresh as white but offers something a little different.
A true wardrobe essential.
Tassel necklaces are everywhere right now, and this Rixo X Billie Bhatia style is on my wish list.
The shape is so chic.
5. Drummer Jacket + Jeans + Sandals
Style Notes: The hat, the drummer jacket, the jeans with just the right amount of slouch: Dawn Tan has indeed nailed the brief. Looking polished from top to toe, I'm already packing away my summer shorts to copy this look (albeit with a warm-weather-appropriate sandal).
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Straight into my basket.
I adore the slouchy fit of this pair.
Sandals and jeans will always be chic.
Autumn will be all about hats.
The perfect finishing touch.