Fashion: Yes YOU can...
...make that summer-to-autumn shift with these key pieces, says Fashion Director Shelly Vella
Transitioning between the seasons can prove a challenge when you don’t have the budget to buy new, nor the inspiration to update your existing wardrobe. My advice is to buy less, wear it more. Invest in staples that will work all year long.
The ever-versatile blazer, worn with trousers and a trench at Victoria Beckham (above) and bringing a tailored edge to a floaty maxi at Miu Miu
The ever-versatile blazer, worn with trousers and a trench at Victoria Beckham and bringing a tailored edge to a floaty maxi at Miu Miu (above)
The blazer
First up – a classic jacket or blazer is the perfect go-to worn over a pretty floral dress and teamed with more autumnal accessories (swap your strappy sandals for a slick ankle or knee boot). Or wear it layered over a summer blouse and wide-leg trousers. A nipped-in waist feels fresh and chic, but boxier cuts are also on trend so find a fit that feels comfortable and flatters you. If you stick to practical neutrals such as black, they will look just as stylish over lighter summer colours – simply pull the look together with accessories in the same shade. Alternatively, a bright jacket will bring a pop of colour to more neutral looks and keep that summery feeling a little longer.
Blazer, £165, Iris & Ink, theoutnet.com
Dress, £110, phase-eight.com
Sunglasses, £165, aspinaloflondon.com
Boots, £150, boden.co.uk
Bag, £325, strathberry.com
The slouchy knit
Whether you favour a V or a roll neck, invest in a really good wool or cashmere blend that will last and that you can throw over a dress or pair of trousers as the weather gets cooler. A voluminous knit is super comfortable and great for layering. However, if you favour a more slimline look, a roll neck is an easy pull-on over a simple camisole – great with wide-leg trousers and versatile, too. You could also try layering it under a floaty dress. Always classic.
Jumper, £98, thewhitecompany.com
Jeans, £19.99, hm.com
Bag, £149, kurtgeiger.com
Bracelet, £29, charleskeith.com
Sandals, £139, kurtgeiger.com
Boots, £239, kurtgeiger.com
The trench
This coat has become a go-to and trend piece. Available in myriad colours and cuts, it takes the chill off when braving floaty dresses, is great with tailoring and, worn with layers, can take you through to early winter then be pulled back out in the spring. In fact, layering is your byword when transitioning seasons. Just be confident and play, avoid bulky items and remember well-fitting clothes are the perfect foundation. If you prefer volume, try on jacketsand coats with bulkier layers underneath. Cut is key.
Coat, £59.99, hm.com
Blouse, £275, meandem.com
Trousers, £312, Roland Mouret, theoutnet.com
Sunglasses, £14, next.co.uk
Bag, £395, aspinaloflondon.com
Boots, £188, Sandro, theoutnet.com
