The Transitional Edit: 7 Sophisticated Staples Fashion Editors Are Wearing on Repeat Right Now

We've hit that awkward time of year when trying to dress for the weather feels impossible. One day, it's like the height summer; the next, a biting chill makes layers a necessity. As I type, a thick fog is blocking my view from the window and I'm wrapped up in an Arket jumper. But earlier this week, I stepped out in a cotton sundress. Colour me confused.

With autumn just around the corner, it's tempting to dive straight into chunky knitwear and heavy coats, but the best way to ease into a new season is by assembling an entourage of transitional pieces. Think mid-weight jackets, versatile footwear and layering staples you can easily shed if the forecast changes. And before you start thinking about trends, make sure you have the foundations in place first, prioritising classic silhouettes and colour palettes you know you'll wear throughout autumn 2024 and beyond.

So, when you're building your between-season outfits, have the following seven items at the ready. Armed with these building-block pieces, looking on-point for the tricky transition will be simpler than ever.

SHOP THE BEST TRANSITIONAL PIECES, ACCORDING TO FASHION EDITORS:

1. Crisp Cotton Shirt

Style Notes: This one is easy, because we consider a simple cotton shirt to be a year-round staple. For autumn, try styling a crisp button-down under knitwear or your jacket of choice, tucked into anything from a mini skirt to wide-leg jeans.

Shop shirts:

With Nothing Underneath

The Boyfriend: Fine Poplin, White

£95

This brand always delivers high-quality shirting.

Arket

Oversized-Fit Poplin Shirt

£67

The perfect relaxed fit.

THE FRANKIE SHOP

Lui Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt

£175

Made from weighty organic cotton, this hero buy will last in your wardrobe for a long time.

2. Trench Coat

Style Notes: If you haven't already added a trench coat to your repertoire, now is the perfect time. This versatile layer will seamlessly carry you into the cooler season, giving all your outfits a touch of Parisian elegance.

Shop trench coats:

ALIGNE

Barnaby Reversible Wax Trench Coat

£249

You read that right—this beautiful coat is reversible.

& Other Stories

Buckle-Belt Trench Coat

£165

& Other Stories releases this trench every year, it's that good.

Nobodys Child

Brown Double Breasted Trench Coat

£159

I love the deeper camel tone.

3. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: You might need to wear your ballet flats with socks once the temperature drops, but they're an effortless option for the transitional period. I think we can all agree this pretty style has solidified itself as an essential shoe.

Shop ballet flats:

AEYDE

Sunny Croc-Effect Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats

£435

This slightly chunkier pair has my vote.

& Other Stories

Almond-Toe Ballerina Flats

£125

Leopard print is a big deal this season.

Reformation

Bethany Ballet Flat

£268

These also come in classic black—and eight other shades.

4. Blue Jeans

Style Notes: As shorts season draws to a close, we're back to relying on our fail-safe jeans day in, day out. Refresh your collection with some of the timeless iterations hitting new-in sections this month.

Shop jeans:

COS

Arch Jeans - Tapered

£85

A great pair of jeans for under £100? It's a no-brainer.

AGOLDE

Clara Baggy Wide-Leg Organic Jeans

£310

There's a reason AGOLDE is on every fashion person's radar.

MANGO

Mom2000 High-Rise Jeans

£36

Slim-fit jeans look so good with boots.

5. Relaxed Blazer

Style Notes: Instead of bee-lining to bulky layers, use a streamlined layer to smarten up your cosy looks. A style with wool in the composition is a clever choice if you're sensitive to the cold.

Shop blazers:

Arket

Oversized Blazer

£159

Arket is the go-to for quality blazers.

DRIES VAN NOTEN

Oversized Checked Wool Blazer

£1415

A great blazer is worth investing in.

& Other Stories

Oversized Blazer

£165

Wear with dresses, jeans, tailored trousers and skirts.

6. Neutral Cardigan

Style Notes: Celebrate the return of sweater weather with a knitwear refresh, starting with a comfy cardigan in a neutral hue that you can toss on over everything.

Shop cardigans:

Arket

Wool Cardigan

£87

Layer this under all your coats and jackets for extra protection from the elements.

ALIGNE

Hampton Knitted Cardigan

£129

A unique take on the classic cardi.

sézane

Emile Cardigan

£130

This one is on my personal wish list.

7. Knitted Dress

Style Notes: Do anyone else's energy levels drop off come autumn? As a self-confessed lazy dresser, I'll be reaching for my favourite knitted dresses to look polished with minimal effort.

Shop knitted dresses:

H&M

Knitted Bodycon Dress

£38

Such a good price!

ME+EM

Sheer Panelled Evening Knit Maxi Dress

£250

Don't be afraid of colour in the colder months.

& Other Stories

Turtleneck Merino Wool Dress

£110

A cosy all-in-one option for long days in the office.