It’s that time of year again, when the weather is annoying and unpredictable. Granted, when you live in Melbourne unpredictable weather is the norm, but I think wherever you are, things seem to get a little weirder between the seasons.
Right now we’re in that no-man’s-land where those warm summer months give way to brisk autumn weather. On any given day you can wake to a torrential downpour, complete with wind and hail, but come midday the ‘shower’ has cleared and the sun is beating down on you as you step out for lunch.
When the weather is this bipolar, swinging wildly from days of freakish heat, to the sudden darkness and miserableness of winter, it can make getting ready in the morning downright infuriating.
There’s nothing worse than standing in front of your wardrobe and not being able to figure out the right combination to get you through the day, so here are some tips to help you trans-seasonal dress.
Layer – This is the number one rule for trans-seasonal dressing. Think shirts over sleeveless tops or t-shirts, vests, light jackets – anything really! That way when it starts heating up you just remove a layer.
Leggings – These are a godsend. You can wear them under skirts and dresses and not only do they keep you warm but they look rather good as well. It means you can keep wearing your summer skirts well into the colder months. And if you find plain old black leggings too boring, invest in a few coloured or patterned pairs – they’re sure to jazz up a boring black ensemble and get a few heads turning.
Lightweight jackets – Are an essential. A blazer is always good. I know I’m always banging on about them, but I can’t help it, they’re brilliant because they can dress up a more casual look and they suit pretty much everyone. Once again, this season the boyfriend blazer is a key look; slightly slouchy, with the sleeves rolled up. They’re available in a myriad of styles and fabrics, so do yourself a favour and purchase one immediately. And a note to guys: blazers are big for you too this season, so don’t be shy.
Shorts – But aren’t they a summer thing you ask? No, teamed with long socks, opaque tights, leggings and sexy pair of boots, they’re a brilliant addition to any autumn wardrobe. Which brings us to…
Boots – Who doesn’t love a good boot? Personally I have fallen in love with several pairs already this year. However, due to a completely insane self imposed shoe-buying ban, I have only been able to purchase one pair, but they’re incredible and I love them.
The good thing about boots is that you can wear them pretty much with everything and they always protect your footsies. However, it is raining a lot this year, so if you do invest in a pair of this season’s suede or faux fur boots, make sure you give them a good once over with the waterproofer and fabric protector.
Scarves – Have you seen the selection of scarves that are now available year round? There is absolutely no excuse for not having dozens of these in various colours, shapes and textures. They keep you warm and they can transform an outfit of black and grey into something far more exciting. Once again, this tip applies to the boys as well as the girls – there’s nothing like a man in a well-knotted scarf to get the blood pumping.