Style Tips For Navigating Between Seasons

We are officially in autumn now, but some days it still feels like summer – at least for part of the day. It’s that time of year when it can be really chilly in the mornings and evenings, but warm during the day. Doing a complete U-turn from sandals to boots isn’t an option. Ditto for T-shirts and jumpers. So, dressing for the notoriously fickle “transitional” phase requires some clever style tips for navigating between seasons.

I’ve got to admit that I usually fall into the style trap of only wearing trousers when the weather cools down. However, I’m challenging myself to wear dresses all year round. While some dresses are definitely only for summer/beach holidays, others can be adapted according to the weather. As we find ourselves in sartorial no man’s land, changing accessories, footwear and adding a versatile layering piece makes all the difference. Very have a fabulous range of women’s dresses to update your new season wardrobe.

I’ve chosen three lightweight dresses to demonstrate how you can continue to wear them into autumn

My wardrobe is full of bright colours, but right now I’m loving all the rich brown, burgundy, purple and deep red tones that are on trend. Incorporating these hues into your outfits is a savvy way to ease into the new season without the risk of overheating by noon! I’ve chosen three lightweight dresses to demonstrate how you can continue to wear them into autumn.

Firstly, let’s talk footwear. As some of you may know, I rarely wear heels now. When it’s time to pack the sandals away but I’m not ready for boots. Trainers are my saviours – both for comfort and style. I can remember a time when trainers were only for exercise and I wouldn’t have dreamed of wearing them with a dress. How times have changed! And thank goodness for that. The choice of sleek and colourful women’s trainers available now, mean I never have to worry about blisters and pinched toes.

Brown trainers are trending this season and they are so versatile. These Adidas Grand Court Lo trainers* are such a fabulous addition to my collection. They are surprisingly supportive given how streamlined they are. As well as skirts and dresses, they look super stylish with jeans and tailored trousers thanks to the sleek design.

The fitted dress

This fitted red dress from Mango* is super flattering. The cut and design with the side ruching is genius. Honestly, it fits like a glove and is so incredibly comfortable. The longer length means I can wear it various ways: with sandals and a clutch for a night out or with trainers and a jacket for a daytime look. When the weather gets colder I can switch the trainers for boots and throw a slouchy jumper over it. It’s a wardrobe hero.

The versatile layering piece

It’s officially jacket season and if you’re looking for a new addition, you can’t go wrong with a rich chocolate brown number. I absolutely love this cropped cord blazer from the Very Collection*. It’s so soft and comfortable, and finishes off an outfit with zero effort. I’ve worn it three times in one week already! The gold buttons and deep front pockets really elevate it, and it’s easy to fold up and put in my work bag. It’ll be perfect for travelling in too.

Shirt dresses

Shirt dresses are another example of versatility. By choosing a longer length, you’ll have more styling options.

Ways to wear a shirt dress:

With trainers and a jacket
Worn open layered over jeans and a tee
With ankle boots and a trench coat
Teamed with tights, long boots and a long cardigan

This shirt dress by Style Cheat* provides plenty of coverage, but the lightweight fabric ensures I don’t get too hot. The darker floral print transitions seamlessly between seasons. (I also chose the same style of dress in a different colourway of brown, burgundy and blush pink, which you’ll see further down.) The Puma Speedcat trainers* pick out the purple in the floral print and keep the look modern.

The warm brown floral print dress works so well with the chestnut brown trainers and cord jacket. I really surprised myself by wearing dresses and trainers to work this week. It was a bit of a style switch up for me but I felt completely comfortable and neither too hot nor too cold. A ten hour shift tested this outfit formula and it passed with flying colours! And when the temperature drops even further I know I can continue wearing dresses with just a few clever style tweaks.