Transitioning from summer to autumn: tips from a stylist
By Nona Dimitrova published 28/09/2023
With the seasons changing (albeit slowly and in a very non-linear manner), now felt like as good a time as any to talk about transitional styling, and how we can make the swap from summer to autumn a little more easy on ourselves. Stylist Victorine Arah answers our questions and shares some of her favourite tips when it comes to transitional fashion.
Do you find layering helps when transitioning between seasons? If so, what items do you typically layer?
Definitely, layering is one of the best parts about the weather getting cooler. I find it’s so much easier to add a little something more interesting to an outfit, with more layers.
I typically play around with layering my coats and jackets, jumpers, shirts, dresses, tops and vests, gilets, scarves and hats.
Are there any colours you rule out depending on the season?
I try to be open minded, but I’d probably say rule out neon colours and pastels during the colder months.
What core items define autumn/summer fashion for you? How could these be styled together in transitional periods?
- Trench coats: can be worn best during autumn months and easy to hold under arm on your bag if the sun decides to come that day.
- Leather jacket/blazer: is an item that can be worn over and over again as a key timeless item.
- Midi-skirt: from denim to satin can be worn all year round from daywear to night.
- Boots: can be worn through transitional periods, your Dr Martens to Chelsea boots. Wellies and other knee-high boots (cowboy, biker, etc.) are also a great transitional piece, which can be seen at summer festivals as well during colder months.
- Baseball caps: Has been my fave this year's accessory as my New York Yankee hat has made its way from winter to summer (which is what it's designed for lol) I found myself styling it with my layers in the winter!
Which seasons do you find it harder to dress for?
I find summer more of a challenge as I love to layer up my items! I also find myself drawn to colurs such as bottle green, burgundy and browns that I love to wear in the A/W months.
As a stylist, do you typically dress with the weather in mind or prioritise wearing something cute?
EASY, dress with the weather in mind and something cute!
What are five items you think everyone should have in their wardrobes for transitional seasons, such a summer to autumn?
A trench coat, a great pair of jeans, a go-to leather jacket, a go-to dress and some sunnies.
Your favourite tips when it comes to styling during transitional seasons?
It’s more of a list, than anything, but:
- Don’t underestimate good underwear/shapewear.
- Chest tape can now come in a range of skin tones and can transform your outfit.
- Having a range of basics tops to restyle.
- Lint roller is your friend.
- Find a good reversible coat or jacket with a faux fur hood or removable sleeves.
- A good size bag for your umbrella! (Or a good size umbrella for your bag)
- You can change the colour of your trainer laces to give them a new look throughout the seasons.
- Gel pads for your heels and I've just seen back padded socks on TikTok to support the rubbing of your boots!
What are some ‘classically summer’ items you think people could style during colder seasons but don’t?
Shorts, as tallied shorts can be worn with tights, heels or boots!
I also love seeing denim waist costs that could be layered with a shirt in the colder months.
Your favourite ways to stay warm during colder seasons while still wearing pieces from summer?
Layer, layer, layer! Especially if you can style it without being seen, i.e. thermals!
Biggest misconception about summer vs. autumn/winter styling?
That you can’t wear light denim in winter and that sandals are a purely summer shoe- I think socks and heeled-sandals always return throughout the year!
Sequins are considered a mostly festive material however during summer months can be seen worn at various yearly festivals.
While florals are considered a spring/summer motif, dark florals work great for autumn winter!
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