Ah, British weather. One minute it's a heatwave, and the next you're dodging puddles during a downpour. When unpredictability is a given, it's essential you've got a transitional wardrobe on-hand – so that you don't have to pull out your summer clothes from their vacuum-packed graves every time there's a change in temperature.
With the autumn months approaching, it’s sensible to invest in pieces that will go the distance instead of buying a bunch of heavy winter clothes that you won’t be able to wear on warmer days in September and October.
So, what exactly counts as transitional? Clothing that isn't weather-dependent and looks great with bare legs, but also translates with tights and boots. You don't want to be sweating in mohair knitwear or shivering in linen trousers; lightweight, easy-to-layer items are your best bet.
We've narrowed it down to five essential trends – these versatile pieces will see you through autumn and well into the winter season.
A Trench Coat
We're starting with this item because it's officially trench season again. By which we mean, the unpredictable weather has kicked in.
Don't hesitate to pull out your favourite floral midi dresses, this coat will make them go the distance (and stop delicate fabrics from being spoiled by surprise showers). While it's still relatively warm, style yours with comfy flats, then when the chillier months come round, switch to boots and underpin your jacket with a roll-neck.
And during that tricky transitional period? When in doubt, layer accordingly.
Mango Oversize tie trench
M&S Longline trench coat
& Other Stories Trench Coat
M&S Longline Trench Coat
A Midi Dress
After years of being deemed too girlish or demure, the midi dress is now a staple in every woman's wardrobe due to its multitasking abilities. Hit the sweet spot (just above the ankle) with your hemline, and you can wear this hero piece from autumn through to spring with a simple switch between knee boots, trainers and sandals. Come November, if it feels too cold for dresses, simply layer yours with a black turtleneck top underneath.
Boden Tea Dress
M&S Floral Midi Dress
Cos Voluminous V-neck Dress
Albaray Print Cord Dress
A pair of black flats
If you've already purchased some trusty ankle boots for this season, why not invest in a pair of black flats – anything from a loafer to a ballet pump (now officially back on trend). You can wear them with floaty skirts and dresses and take them into winter with tailored trousers and jeans.
M&S Ballet Pumps
M&S Wide Fit Ballet Pumps
& Other Stories Leather Ballet Flats
A Cardigan
Cardigans had their long-awaited renaissance a few years back, shaking off any frumpy connotations in the process. Cropped cuts are the perfect companion to anything high waisted; open-front iterations are easy to layer and louche; longline styles will add a sophisticated twist to simple outfits. Pop one in your tote bag on temperamental warmer days and layer up under your trench during the rainy autumn period.
M&S Longline Cardigan
& Other Stories Cardigan
Boden Cropped Cardigan
M&S Button Cardigan
Whistles Cashmere Cardigan
An A-line skirt
The clean shape of an A-line midi makes it more versatile than most skirts. You can wear it all year round with some easy styling hacks – on top, all you need is a white T-shirt or a turtleneck jumper, and on your feet, anything from trainers to knee boots will do. We love the structure leather and denim bring, but if you like a little bit of swish in your step opt for versatile cotton designs instead.
M&S A-Line Skirt
Boden Taffeta Skirt
Stories Plissé Skirt
