35 Transitional Buys At NET-A-PORTER
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Wide-Leg Jeans
The start of autumn/winter means it’s time for denim – and if you're going to invest in a new pair of jeans this season, make it a wide leg. This isn't a bellbottom/flares moment, but a full exaggerated leg. Best worn with a vest or tank to show off that holiday tan, they also work well with a bit of sparkle for the evening. Throw on an oversized blazer as the weather gets colder or opt for a rollneck or fitted statement knit – and a leather belt is a great addition to accentuate your waist. I always get asked about footwear with a wider leg, so: great with sliders now, trainers are also a given, while a strappy kitten heel looks good for evening. To take the look into winter, add a 70s-inspired boot. Just make sure the length of the leg works with both flats and a heel before you buy – and always take up the hems if they are dragging on the floor.
Simple Vests
It's always worth investing in good-quality basics – and what could be more useful at this time of year than a well-cut vest? Check out Totême, Agolde, James Perse and Holzeiler. All of them get modern, flattering cuts spot on and their colour palettes are perfect. The beauty of a streamlined tank is you can play with the proportions on your bottom half. For instance, shorts can be worn full volume or go with a longer tailored style. Alternatively, tuck a vest into wide-leg trousers and layer with an open oversized shirt for a bit of androgynous appeal. You can also prolong the wear of pretty summer skirts by layering a vest with a puff-sleeve cardigan or tulle skirt for evening. They also work brilliantly with a tux for formal event. Just pay attention to the strap – the narrower it is, the broader shoulders appear, and the smaller the waistline.
V-Neck Blouses
Need a change from peasant tops and puff sleeves? A V-neck shirt is your new go-to. The simple shape – reminiscent of menswear looks and pyjama tops – looks set to be the on-trend separate of the season. Totême rules when it comes to delicate trimming, elegant colour palettes and subtle linear prints, while Loewe has a simple cream version with its immediately recognisable logo discreetly embroidered on the pocket that I love. Vita Kin has cleverly come up with a cotton version complete with boho detailing – wear it with wide-leg trousers or culottes in the day then dress up with sequin or leather trousers for night.
Pretty Knits
I am such a sucker for pretty knitwear and right now I’m still very much into colour. Isabel Marant and Sea NY never fail to deliver – cable detailing, gathered shoulders and cut-outs are all details to look out for this season. Look for unusual (but useful) colour combinations, too. Mustard is perfect at this time of year – it’s a great match for pale and dark neutrals alike. Dusky pink looks lovely with cream and grey, and rich aqua is sensational with forest green and tan. I recommend wearing them with your favourite jeans for effortless appeal, before dressing up the look with heels and statement earrings for date night.
Oversized Blazers
A well-cut, modern blazer is a key layering piece in the autumn, and it offers endless styling opportunities. As ever, oversized is the way to go – layering one over a floral dress will extend the life of your summer wardrobe, but it will also give denim more edge – especially with a pair of heels. The more trend-led among us could even throw one over leisurewear with a cap to nail the Scandi street style look. Just make sure you go for a wearable, versatile neutral colour – camel and beige are strong options and Stella McCartney is always a great investment for this. I'm also loving this denim one from Alexander Wang – it's the perfect oversized shape and feels really modern. If in doubt, Isabel Marant always makes a great transitional blazer. I love that this one is double breasted and extra boxy.
Chunky Loafers
Loafers are ideal at this time of year. I always think they look best with a bit of leg or ankle on show – think Chanel Resort with shorts, culottes, miniskirts and knitted pencil midis. There are so many out there to choose from right now – the Gucci classics are still going strong, but I’ve also fallen for Saint Laurent's two-tone beauties. To take the loafer to new heights, look for daring details like Louboutin's chain embellishment or Jimmy Choo's crystal trimming. You could also go for the mega sole – Valentino and Tod's have strong options this season. Simply add a sock as the weather gets colder.
Long-Sleeve Dresses
There are some strong contenders around already this season. The beauty of a long-sleeve dress is it works with a range of footwear – from sliders to winter boots. It's all about finding a flattering shape and seeking out the most beautiful prints – a good tip is to find a pattern with a strong neutral base shade. Alémais is a brand that’s always on my radar. The fabrics are original and have a flamboyant edge – the pieces are the kind you’ll want to hold onto season after season and I love the patchwork quality and easy shirt shape of this one. Also – who doesn't love a Zimmerman dress? This kaleidoscope style would look great with long boots. Finally, Isabel Marant always puts an 80s spin on classic shapes, and the cummerbund waist and ruched shoulders give this romantic dress a real edge. Throw over a blazer or gilet and layer up with a rollneck in the colder weather.
Cool Gilets
I’ve always loved a gilet – if you haven't bought one already, they’re well worth the money. A key layering piece for autumn, they’re the perfect way to elevate a long-sleeve dress. Make sure you go for a fabric and style that feel substantial enough to be the dominant piece in any outfit – there’s nothing worse than a lightweight vest that hangs awkwardly over clothes. Rich textures are also important – that luxe feel is everything. Isabel Marant's grey bouclé vest is perfect with leathers and will work well with dark checks and rich prints. Max Mara's camel double-breasted version is also very versatile and will work with all your neutral pieces. Finally, Lafayette's cream shearling gilet is a classic investment piece.
Boho Necklaces
Never underestimate the transformative power of jewellery – particularly a necklace. At the moment, I'm into pieces with a bit of personality. Jia Jia's emerald quartz necklace will go with so much – green really pops against pink and red, and it’s unexpected and quirky. Isabel Marant always does great tribal jewellery, and this monochrome piece will add decorative flair to a peasant dress or printed blouse. White also looks lovely against sun-kissed skin – Ileana Makri sits at the upper end of the market, while Roxanne Assoulin is a more affordable alternative. As the weather turns, these pieces will transform even the simplest of knitwear, adding character and charm to a grey cashmere knit. Stick to shorter lengths that sit close to the neck for maximum versatility. Alternatively, you can layer up with longer pieces for a more decorative look.
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