Transitional Basics: The In-Between Wardrobe

There’s a very specific time of year when summer sales are winding down, but you’re not quite ready to invest in a full fall wardrobe. It’s still warm with some cloudy mornings and the idea of sweaters and boots feels a little premature.

Enter what I like to call the transitional basics.

These are the pieces that bridge the gap between seasons, classic, everyday staples you can wear now and keep reaching for well into fall.

Start with one of my favorite go-to brands PerfectWhiteTee. Their range of simple cut styles from v-necks, to vests are a great foundation for any wardrobe and works well with denim and sandals now as it does layered under a jacket later. Add a few everyday neutral shades for easy layering and a little variety without overthinking your outfit.

Then there’s denim. A pair of well-made, timeless jeans with a denim shirt - think the effortless appeal of Frank & Eileen, can carry you through every season. Wear them with a tee while it’s still warm, then add a lightweight sweater once the temperature starts to drop. The Ziggy reverse fleece creq]w neck sweatshirt is a great example of a transitional basic.

And that’s really the key right now, nothing too heavy or overly fall-specific. Look for classic knits that can be thrown over a tee in the evening, layered under a jacket later, and worn year after year.

These are the pieces worth buying when you’re done with summer sales, but not quite ready to invest in those fall styles. Seasonless, classic and easy to wear, transitional basics let you refresh your wardrobe without rushing the season, or buying things you won’t wear for another month.