Emma’s Transitional Shopping Tips & High-Street Heroes
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EMMA'S TIPS
Find pieces that do more than one job
Transitional dressing is all about versatility. A lightweight jacket, oversized shirt or fine knit that works with jeans, tailoring and dresses will earn its place in your wardrobe.
Pay attention to the fabric
The high street is brilliant but I still check the fabric composition. Linen blends, cotton, wool and good-quality viscose tend to look far more expensive than overly synthetic fabrics.
Don’t dismiss the ‘in-between’ coat
A lightweight trench, barn jacket, suede-effect jacket or relaxed blazer is exactly what you need when the weather can’t make up its mind. Look for something you can layer rather than anything too heavy just yet.
Go oversized but keep something else streamlined
I love an oversized shirt or jacket but the easiest way to make it feel modern is to balance it with something more fitted – think wide-leg trousers with a neat tee or a big jacket over a slim column dress.
Buy into autumn colours early
Chocolate, burgundy, khaki, tobacco and deep navy instantly make summer pieces feel more directional while still working in warmer weather.
Use accessories to shift the mood
A new belt, bag or pair of shoes can completely change what’s already in your wardrobe. I’d rather spend on a great accessory than buy another piece that only works one way.
Look for elevated basics
Good t-shirts, tanks, shirts and knits are all pieces I look for first. The trick is finding versions with slightly better proportions – a longer sleeve, a boxier shape or a really good neckline can make all the difference.
Think about your shoes
A good transitional outfit often comes down to footwear. Loafers, ballet flats, trainers and low-profile boots are brilliant for making summer dresses and skirts feel less summery without looking like you’ve jumped straight into winter.
Don’t overlook tailoring
A relaxed blazer or pair of tailored trousers is one of the easiest ways to make high-street pieces feel more expensive. I like tailoring that isn’t too corporate – slightly oversized, slightly undone and easy to wear with everything.
Ask yourself, will you still want this in three months’ time?
This is probably my biggest shopping rule. If something only works for the current trend or one particular outfit, I leave it. The best transitional buys are the pieces you can imagine wearing now, next month and well into autumn.
STYLED WITH
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