These awkward in-between months can often feel like a time of sartorial limbo — too cold for the shorts and breezy linen shirts that your summer wardrobe called for, but still too warm for heavy coats and chunky knits. What to wear, then? Just because the weather can't make up its mind doesn't mean you have to be at a loss as well. This is the season for transitional dressing — a time to embrace versatile layers, sturdy footwear and rich autumnal textures. Invest in a few key staples and your wardrobe will thank you.
The overshirt
While the overshirt is a perennial staple that should be a fixture in every man's wardrobe no matter the time of year, it really comes into its own in the transitional seasons. It's the ultimate layering piece, perfect for throwing on over a T-shirt when a sunny day clouds over, but also ideal for layering under a heavier coat as winter approaches. While traditional workwear-style overshirts are typically cut from sturdy cotton twill, there are a range of fabric options available on the market. For a lightweight overshirt that you'll reach for year-round, opt for Delikatessen's ultra-versatile cotton/tencel blend overshirt. A Day's March has you sorted if you're after something with a bit more warmth. Its original wool overshirt in autumn-appropriate brown is ideal for this time of year.
The lightweight knit
Knitwear is essential to a successful transitional wardrobe, but the key is to keep it lightweight to enhance its layering potential. Favour fine yarns over chunky ones: cashmere and extrafine merino will add an element of understated luxury to your everyday wardrobe. For high quality knitwear, Luca Faloni is a no-brainer. The Italian menswear label's fine silk-cashmere crew neck sweater will look just as great with jeans and sneakers on the weekend as with a smart blazer and tailored trousers. Another fail-safe go-to for autumn-appropriate knitwear is Oliver Spencer, whose extrafine wool cardigan makes for the perfect throw-on-and-go piece.
The trousers
Shorts are out and trousers are in, that much is true. But just which trousers to go for? Linen trousers are the preserve of summer and heavy woollen styles are too warm for this time of year, so meet somewhere in the middle. You can never go wrong with a pair of classic blue denim jeans, but for something different, why not try a contemporary take on utility-inspired cargo pants? Danish label Forét have you sorted, with their lightweight yet durable cotton twill trousers that are ideal for the in-between months.
The boots
When it comes to transitional dressing, no outfit is complete without the right footwear. Of course, sneakers are a year-round staple, but the chillier months also call for a sturdy yet elegant pair of boots, to pair with everything from jeans to a tailored suit. Investing in a pair of Chelsea boots is a wise move: the style has stood the test of time for a reason. This pair from ETQ Amsterdam have our vote, thanks to their timeless, understated aesthetic. For a more rugged look, opt for a military-style boot. Grenson's captoe derby boot is made to last, having been crafted from the finest country grain calf leather. Take care of them well and they'll last you years.
The raincoat
A raincoat is a staple of any transitional wardrobe, which you'll be especially thankful for when those inevitable autumn showers come. Be sure to choose a lightweight mac that you can layer over a heavier knit or jacket. Rains is an obvious go-to: the Scandinavian brand is renowned for its unisex raincoats that are both functional and stylish, ideal for everyday wear. For a rain jacket that also doubles as a stylish trench coat, French label Verlan's water resistant waxed cotton style is the style to opt for. Its clean silhouette and minimalist aesthetic means that it won't look out of place on a sunny day.
Now that you've mastered the art of transitional dressing, turn your attention to freshening up your accessories collection.
