8 Transitional Pieces To Wear Now & Into Autumn
September dressing can be tricky. These are the new-season pieces that work now, layer later and make the shift into autumn considerably easier.
Too warm for proper winter layers but increasingly difficult to rely on summer favourites, September calls for clothes that can do both.
From the M&S trench that looks far more expensive than its price tag to COS denim and a great everyday leather bag, these are the eight transitional pieces we’d add to our wardrobes now.
1. M&S, Cotton Rich Trench Coat
A classic trench is hard to beat at this time of year, and this one has all the details we want: a longline cut, double-breasted front and easy neutral shade. Throw it over denim now and add knitwear underneath when autumn properly arrives. £80
2. M&S, Wide Leg Pintuck Jeans
Dark indigo always feels right for the new season. The wide leg and front pintuck give these a smarter finish than your everyday jeans, making them just as good with loafers and a shirt for work as they are with trainers at the weekend. £46
3. COS,Longline Denim Shirt
A useful alternative to a denim jacket while it’s still mild. Wear it loose over a white tee, or under a sleeveless dress for a chic look. £85
4. French Connection, Plaid Mini Dress
Checks are an easy way to make a wardrobe feel more autumnal before you’re ready for heavy layers. This sleeveless A-line shape works with bare legs and loafers now, then a fine knit, tights and boots later. £110
5. Autograph, Pure Cashmere Zip-Up Hoodie
The elevated layer we didn’t know we needed. Pure cashmere makes the simple zip-up feel polished enough to wear beyond the school run; layer it over a tee now and under a trench or wool coat as the temperature drops. £130
6. Mango, Striped Rugby Top
The rugby shirt continues to be one of the easiest ways to update jeans for autumn. The navy and butter-yellow stripe gives this one enough interest to do the work on its own. Just add denim, trainers and a trench. £29.99
7. FARM Rio, Golden Nature Navy Blue Mini Dress
For anyone not quite ready to give up dresses. The darker floral print feels distinctly new season, while the mini length keeps it wearable on warmer September days. Add boots and a jacket when the weather turns. £270
8. Massimo Dutti, Nappa Leather Mini Duffle Bag
A black leather bag is one of the quickest ways to pull an autumn wardrobe together. This pared-back duffle shape feels chic, and is smart enough for work while still working with jeans at the weekend. £170