Transeasonal Time: 5 Pieces to Make It Work

As of the end of this week, it will be official. Australian summer is over, but before we get through to the cold layered mess that is winter, we have to navigate our way through the limbo that is transeasonal dressing; how to dress when the weather changes four times in a twenty-four hour time frame. Having given it some thought, these are the five pieces I’ll be buying (or have already bought) to carry me through the following season and still get good use in the next.

A Black Denim Skirt

I have one particular outfit in mind when I think about buying a black denim skirt, but the reality is it serves as a valuable wardrobe basic all year round. Worn over black opaque stockings and a black pair of heeled booties, it lengthens your pins, and you can balance the look with an oversized sweater, or a cute logo tee, depending on the weather.

Fitted Turtlenecks

Turtlenecks have copped their fair share of criticism in decades past (but really, no one knew anything about fashion in the early 2000’s anyway) but they’re indispensable to a good transeasonal wardrobe. Pick up a few in your three dark basic colours, such as navy, grey, or black, and wear a la francias -  with a red lip and hoop earrings.

A Slouchy, Oversized Cardigan

And I’m talking oversized. Go for one with sleeves so long that they partially cover your fingers, with heavy, warm fabric that can balance out the proportions of a pair of straight mum jeans. I bought this Free People Grey Cardi, but you can have fun with colours here - there’s nothing better than a pop of magenta or crimson on a dreary winter’s day.

A Good Quality Pair of Black Boots

Boots are where it’s time to invest, and be sure you’re making the right one. Look for a good quality leather pair, with a low-ish heel (for your pragmatic mother’s sake,) and with a touch of detailing to keep things interesting. I always look for something with a bit of extra around the sole, whether it be stitching, or hints of metal - think Alexander Wang’s classic Kori bootie.

A Big, Red Scarf

This is where we get a little more deep into the winter months, but I’ve thrown it in because a big, Paddington Bear-esq scarf is something I’ve been on hunt for. We’re talking blanket proportions here - think big fire-engine red, or with tartan print as a pattern to break up an otherwise simple outfit. A red scarf is a good mood fashion item - it’s just fun.