If you’re lamenting whether to pack away your summer wardrobe, then don’t. The days may be getting cooler and shorter, but transitional dressing has never been easier or more stylish. Cosy outerwear, luscious layers and great eyewear are the key to prolonging your summer wardrobe and looking awesome during this inconsistent weather. Optician has selected some simple and stylish ideas on how to nail the summer-to-autumn dressing dilemma.
Winter sun
Oliver Goldsmith’s Winter Sun collection just got even better, with the launch of six brand new styles. A fresh interpretation on a vintage idea, the collection features lightly tinted lenses, a concept originally pioneered by Goldsmith back in 1969. This tint is, and was, specifically designed for protection against the sun’s glare on a winter’s day or to remove the brightness of interior lights – perfect for those in-between weather days. Wearing sunglasses all year-round should be non-negotiable.
Clogging on
Whether wooden, rubber, suede or leather, clogs (or mules, to some) are your go-to shoe this autumn. There are literally hundreds on the market at the moment. Despite the fashion set well and truly being on board with the humble Croc, they continue to divide opinion. So if you can’t quite face taking your garden shoe into the big wide world, you can’t go wrong with a Birkenstock, which has been leading the market for eternity.
Clogs are your perfect transitional shoe, paired with a cool sock, rolled up jean or cargo trouser, it’s even the perfect precursor to your chunky boots when wearing dresses or skirts.
Poppin’ sock
Socks and sandals are officially cool, but no one likes a cold ankle, so statement socks are the ultimate way to transition from your summer sandal to winter stompers. Verging on the ridiculous, these brilliantly happy and quirky socks by Chatty Feet are truly excellent.
With socks featuring personalities from art to literature and science, they are a breath of fresh air. This pair, called ‘Yayoi Toesama,’ are based on Japanese artistry and would look perfect poking out under a pair of rolled-up jeans.
Layer upon layer
A collection of lightweight pieces that can be styled up or down are perfect for these end-of-summer days. Block colours are also a great way to style transitional clothing and this lightly quilted jacket by H&M will become a wardrobe wonder.
Layer it over colourful, cotton summer dresses or with denim and a simple tak top or how about with shorts and a long-sleeved Breton? The colour, cut and neckline of this classic little jacket will provide you with enough warmth in the colder evenings or can be layered under heavier coats or waterproofs when things truly take a turn for the worse.
Chain reaction
Layering doesn’t just apply to clothes during this transitional period. Upping your accessory game is a sure-fire way to bring a bit of depth to your summer threads. Oversized acrylic necklaces, thick gold hoops or layers of delicate chains are all perfect options, but the ultimate accessory has got to be the glasses chain. With so many options on the market now, there really is something for everyone. This Formica bead chain by Talis Chain is absolutely gorgeous, with beautiful cucumber green cubes offset by 18 carat gold plated beads and discreet silicone hoops, delivering the crossover between functionality and fashion brief.