Everyone knows that fall is the most exciting time for fashion – paging through the September issues is definitely a form of self-care. But if you live somewhere where it’s definitely still summer like me, we can’t just jump straight to boots and cashmere. So I put together a list of transitional pieces that will be seasonally appropriate, but still give you a little bit of the sartorial thrill of fall. From blazers to jeans to loafers, we’ve got it all.
Utility Coat
What’s a utility coat? For me, it’s something with an actual function, like the pockets on an army jacket or the rain-repellant trench coat. Plus, they’re light enough to layer underneath when it gets a little chillier. A Barbour waxed-cotton jacket in brown, the Everlane modern trench coat, or Jenni Kayne’s sleek jacket all do the trick.
Blazer/Sweatshirt
A blazer in a lighter fabric is perfect for riding out the awkward transitional months, like this J.Crew blazer in an Italian linen/cotton blend. No one does tailoring better than Ralph Lauren, and this plaid blazer proves it. And you can truly never have enough sweatshirts. For now, rock them at night when the temp drops like this lilac crewneck or this white hoodie from COS.
Jeans/Chinos
A cropped, straight leg pair of denim is a must-have. You can wear it right now with wedges or sleek sandals, and then later you can swap out your shoes for loafers or heeled booties. Levi’s 501s are a great option, and if you want to spend a little more, these RE/DONE jeans are perfect. This pair of bootcut jeans from Joe’s is the perfect medium wash, too! Alex Mill’s Kelly Chino works now with a tank, and later with a sweater.
Loafers
There’s nothing better than a loafer on a brisk morning, whether you’ve splashed out for an-expensive-but-worth-it pair of Gucci shoes or a classic pair of penny loafers. I love this backless, super-sleek pair from COS that feel modern. Or you could go trendy with a lug sole, like this Madewell pair.
Shirt
Nordstrom’s Everyday Poplin Shirt is perfect for just that – everyday! But if you want something with a little more flair, I’ve been wearing this utility-inspired shirt from COS with Bermuda shorts, but I’m going to swap those out for chinos come fall.
Shop the rest of our transitional pieces for fall edit below:
All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.
