5 Ways to Master the Art of Trans-Seasonal Dressing

The Edit

5 WAYS TO MASTER THE ART OF TRANS-SEASONAL DRESSING

As the days begin to veer toward the cooler side, it’s time to look to items that can weather both the crispness of fall, and the coming cold.

By Lindsay Samson

September 20, 2022

The weather is certainly starting to change for those of us above the equator. The very last delicious days of summer are quickly approaching. With a new season just around the corner, the time to be more practical without being too hasty and predictable has come. After months of self-indulgence and devotion to mini-dresses and tailored shorts, our styling needs to evolve into a mash-up of interchangeable staples filled with hybrid attributes that will help us navigate a new set of rules.

And, because it’s impossible to restock your closet with all of the new essentials every time the seasons change, the incorporation of these trans-seasonal pieces into your style arsenal is a must. Like many transitional stages though, this type of dressing can be kind of tough. But, worry not, dear readers, because we’ve put together a list of all the items you’re going to need to navigate those uncertain days that fall between now and winter.

Shop the full edit here

1.

THE JUMPSUIT

For those who appreciate a one-and-done transitional look that requires minimal mental effort, let the jumpsuit replace your breathable summer sundress this season. The best thing about it? Its versatility. Not only can you dress it up with elegant strappy heels or dress it down with trainers; the jumpsuit itself varies in style. The utilitarian variety by well-loved Kenyan brand KikoRomeo is a popular and practical choice that features internal elastic so you can adjust the silhouette as you please. Available in four different colorways—including a warm saffron yellow and on-trend blue tie-dye—the piece’s breathable cotton form and front zip fastening detail make it a convenient and exceptionally comfortable garment, that works equally well when paired with a chunky combat boot and utilitarian chic backpack. A luxe winter clog and classic leather messenger bag work just as well.

2.

The Tailored Trousers

The art of trans-seasonal dressing starts with elevating your basics. A pair of relaxed but also refined trousers is one of the most important foundational pieces for this style philosophy. A go-to sartorial option for the temperamental period between fall and winter, tailored trousers make anything you wear look good, whether you couple them with a blouse, a t-shirt, or a chunky knit. Crafted from pure cotton and printed by hand with wooden brushes, Niuku’s Basori Pants are a subtle yet spirited take on the style. Its relaxed flared shape and belted waist make for a flattering silhouette. Pepper Row’s Yagazie Trousers, meanwhile, offer an unmatched versatility due to the neutral brown hue, classic high waist, and straight legs with inverted pleats. It will easily become a part of your everyday uniform. For a bold splash of color, turn to Orange Culture’s Casj Vol 2 White Heart Pants. They have a comfortable, loose fit and a white heart motif, hand-dyed using the ancestral Adire technique of the Yoruba people. It’s designed to be worn with its matching t-shirt. However, the piece looks equally cool when paired with neutral separates. UNI FORM’s Utility Pants, on the other hand, offer a unique take on off-duty dressing, its roomy, high rise form and soft, tobacco-hue rendering it a seamless addition to any wardrobe.

3.

THE FALL SHOE

When it comes to fall fashion, no item holds a spot more dear and near to our hearts than boots. And while it is safe to assume you have a few go-to pairs sitting in your closet, maybe it’s time to switch up your roster with Shekudo’s Falana Boot. Crafted from Aso-Oke fabric, it can be perfectly paired with midi and mini hemlines. Maliko’s Gil Boot hits the perfect middle ground between architectural construction and wearability. The brown leather creation is trendy as it is comfortable—the type of wardrobe wonder that’ll adapt itself seamlessly to almost any ensemble. The brand’s Ayo Sandal is a fall winner. Keep the rest of your ensemble neutral to spotlight this leather slingback sandal from the brand’s “Afin-Nity” collection. Another key silhouette to add to your fall shoe repertoire? The closed-toe mule. In this regard Shekudo’s Keffi Loafer offers just enough coverage to ward off colder temperatures, its luxurious touches of Aso-Oke and quality leather lining imbuing it with an ultra-contemporary aesthetic that’s always in vogue.

4.

THE Lightweight Jacket

As far as jackets that are suitably airy but insulated enough to keep you warm, there is a plethora of options to choose from. Embrace the neutral tones that the seasonal shift calls for with expertly tailored pieces in shades of cream, gray, and navy, courtesy of UNI FORM’s Collared Blazer. It boasts an oversized fit that emulates the feel of borrowed boyfriend styles, while the loose cut and unlined construction of Katush’s Dabassah Kimono Jacket renders it a layering champion. However, if you’re looking for a trans-seasonal jacket that makes more of a show-stopping statement, Viviers’ Draped Coat Dress is the pick for you. The artisanal creation is made from a combination of cotton and locally woven linen, and its expertly draped panels and blanket-stitch trims lend it an element of dramatic opulence. Niuku’s cotton denim unisex Velin Jacket is the perfect example of understated tailoring, while its hand painted print revitalises its classic silhouette.

5.

THE Artisanal Shirt

Undoubtedly one of fashion’s most timeless silhouettes, the trans-seasonal staple that is the tailored shirt is a fashion all-rounder, no matter your style. With its uncomplicated and laid-back styling qualities, this is an item that rarely misses the mark when it comes to looking professional, but— depending on how you style it—can also be the epitome of casual. Made from soft, dark-hued cotton and detailed with contrasting white lettering, Emmy Kasbit’s Adara Shirt is a versatile selection. One that looks great with everything from the jeans style of your choice, to a fitted pencil skirt. Viviers’ Cabbage Leaf shirt is similarly adaptable and boasts an innate easygoing elegance. It’s made from vintage raw silk and features a shimmering original cabbage leaf motif—an unexpected element that exemplifies the brand’s fashion-forward approach to artisanal techniques. Handcrafted in Nigeria from cotton and acrylic yarn, IAMISIGO’s paneled shirtdress is a head-turner with frayed edges and hand-woven texture contributing to an air of boho chic. Meanwhile, its cinched waist and front-panels create an enviable hourglass silhouette that plays up the piece’s feminine flair. Made from pure cotton, Katush’s Na Shirt exudes a relaxed air, while its sunny yellow color provides an effortless way to inject your look with a little vibrance and joy.