The in-between seasons can be the hardest. Hot one day, wintry the next… and as the seasons get more unpredictable, dressing for the weather becomes even more challenging.
It’s no longer a case of vac sealing your winter coats as it hits spring, or kissing your mini dresses goodbye as the leaves start to change colour – we need to access to most of our wardrobe all year round.
The solution? A capsule wardrobe checklist that will see you sail through the changing seasons effortlessly.
According to fashion stylist Emma Riemersma, the key to trans-seasonal dressing is layering. “You will create a wardrobe of layering must-haves that you will wear and wear, while saving money on frivolous purchases,” she says.
A collection of fashion staples that will save us money, space and we can wear all year-round? Yes, please! Here is your guide to building a capsule wardrobe for trans-seasonal dressing.
What is trans-seasonal dressing?
Trans-seasonal dressing is using clothes that can work across seasons because of their versatility. They can be layered, and worn in a range of different combinations.
“Creating a successful working wardrobe is a game changer!” says Emma. “You will rejoice in streamline effortless dressing and get less overwhelmed when you are clear about what items work with each other. This takes the stress out of looking good and feeling good when you step out the door every day!”
Your trans-seasonal capsule wardrobe checklist
The good news is a lot of these items you probably have already, it’s just about knowing how to style and curate them into multiple outfits across the seasons.
Emma breaks down the process for us. “Know your own style; take a moment to think about your style icons and build a Pinterest board for inspiration. Know your shape; it really helps to have an understanding of your body shape and what styles work best for you. Read up about body shapes or book in with a personal stylist to assist you.”
So, when dressing trans-seasonally, where do you start? Not to worry! Emma has run through her top recommendations to begin building your transeasonal capsule wardrobe below.
01
Denim jacket
Indigo Tonic $109.99
Denim should be at the top of your capsule wardrobe checklist, and when it comes to choosing a denim jacket, expert stylist Emma explains, “In my experience the best two lengths for a denim jacket are; slightly fitted and cropped to sit just above your hips in the waist line, or over-size sitting below your hips.”
02
Smart blazer
Oxford $139.00
Emma says, “If you don’t work in a corporate environment where a classic suit is called for, have fun with a coloured or neutral blazer in linen as it is now the go to fabric for any season.”
03
Trench coat
SABA $499
A trench is an investment, but a fabulous staple to have in your transeasonal wardrobe. Emma says, “Try a lightweight trench for layering all year round, go classic or try a trench leather detailing or in a soft pastel colour.”
04
Plain tank top
Atmos&Here $29.99
“You may want a mix of fitted and oversized tank and basic tees. If you want to feel your best with the most flattering proportions try fitted top and loose bottoms or oversized top and slim lined pants.” suggests Emma.
05
Tailored shirt
Camixa $99.90
“There are a couple of must-haves when it comes to shirts, a classic white is a no fail. A fun coloured oversized striped shirt is always versatile as it works with denim, belted as a mini or over bathers.” explains Emma. “Invest in a beautiful sheer fitted shirt, maybe with some detail like a puff sleeve to work with denim and heels or elevated suit pants.”
06
Feminine top
Forever New $89.99
Trans-seasonal doesn’t have to mean basic. “What is your style – pretty cami with lace or polkadot with a giant pussy bow or a minimalistic tank style top with the puffiest sleeve on the rack?” says Emma. “This is where you let your creative juices run wild!”
07
Lightweight Knit
Country Road $139
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again – layer! “Knits can be dressed up or down, find the style that fits the best and layers well.. and doesn’t make you itch!” explains Emma.
08
Maxi skirt
Witchery $179.95
“I am a lover of skirts!” says Emma. “For effortless style try a long maxi skirt to add to your repertoire, always chic with trainers, heels or cute and comfortable flats.”
09
Classic jeans
Wrangler $99.99
Jean shopping is not fun for anyone. According to Emma, “There is no getting around it, make the time and try MANY styles on to find your favourite fit.”
10
Tailored suit
AERE $280
When you purchase a suit you have a variety of different combos at your disposal. When picking one, Emma says, “For me the classic man style suit is the most timeless.”
