Transitioning into new seasons has a way of getting my creative juices flowing, with editorials to pour over, moodboards to make, and seasonal shows and films to rewatch. Autumn perhaps is the most visceral season for me, as the heat starts to break and the trees turn and with all that autumn represents (fresh starts, new beginnings, etc etc).
But at the same time, there is always an odd in-between period where you’re mentally in one season but physically in another. I like to use this time of year to think really critically about the new season purchases I plan to make, by creating strict lists, moodboarding, and shopping around. Over the years I have come to rely on a few failsafe pieces that I always return to time and again, no matter what else is on my wishlist and what the fleeting trend of the moment is.
Loafers
A hot trend and yet completely timeless, loafers have been a must-have in my wardrobe for years. Unfortunately they have quite a limited season here in Toronto, as the period between the heat of summer and the depths of winter isn’t all that long. Despite that, I’ve amassed a little collection of loafers that always get plenty of wear in. In fact, I’m currently waiting on this pair to arrive at my doorstep. They’re the perfect mix of minimal, masculine, and slightly geeky that I really gravitate towards this time of year.
Denim Jackets
I was originally going to include trench coats in this roundup (because obviously), but it’s hardly gone below 20 degrees here yet so I haven’t had much need for it. Since I probably still have a few weeks before it really becomes trench coat weather, I’ve been leaning on this denim jacket instead. It’s the perfect piece for this confusing in-between season because it’s oversized enough to layer underneath if needed, and it’s also breathable enough for those slightly warmer days. Plus the indigo wash of this one is so, so good.
Light Coloured Denim
I love light-coloured (particularly ecru) denim during these transitional weeks, because it has a slightly more winter-y bent than shorts or dresses, but the light wash keeps it from feeling too heavy. These jeans are from COS, and I love the fit of them so much that I’m going to be getting them in black as well for the colder months.
Lightweight Knits
While it’s still a little early to bust out the wooly knits, I’ve been leaning on my lighter weight knits a ton during the past few weeks. I love stripes year round but especially so in the fall, and the cotton fabrication of this sweater means I won’t overheat when it inevitably warms up by lunchtime. Sweaters are obviously a necessity for autumn and winter, so this season I’ve been keeping my eyes peeled for a classic black cashmere crewneck and an off-white slightly chunkier wool knit to round out my knitwear collection.
Making “Summer” Pieces Work for Autumn
The last thing I’ve been loving is experimenting with my more “summer-y” pieces and making them work for the slightly cooler weather. It’s still been in the low-to-mid twenties most days, still too warm for most knits and boots but yet I’m mentally well beyond dresses and strappy sandals. Linen trousers, basket bags, and fisherman sandals translate to autumn when mixed with denim and light knits.
I know I can’t be the only one who finds this odd in-between season so confusing, so I hope this little roundup has been helpful! The forecast here in Toronto is looking prime the next couple of weeks, and I for one cannot wait for the start of layering season!
