Enter, then, the mid layer – or trans-seasonal jacket in fashion speak. These lightweight jackets, blazers or knits will extend the wear of your floaty summer wardrobe, at least until the clocks change, offering a layer of warmth against those misty autumn mornings and also, if styled right, add texture and interest to your silhouette.
Here are seven of our favourites, new in this season.
H&M
Oversize Shacket, £40
Is it a shirt or is it a jacket? Answer: it’s a shacket. A popular mid-layer choice with style editors this season, this checked number from H&M can be worn alone now as an added layer to dungarees, or jeans and a tee. Simply add a wool camel coat as the temperature dips.
Massimo Dutti
Classic Cotton Trench, £169
A perennial between seasons go-to coat is the classic trench. Timeless, elegant and universally flattering, this 100 per cent cotton trench from Massimo Dutti is breathable on warmer days, whilst offering some protection from the elements on those less predictable ones. Try this khaki shade to mix with this season’s earthy tones.
Arket
Half-Zip Merino Bib, £69
A knitted mid-layer is not only super practical for conserving the heat in your core, without adding bulk; it is also a key trend for autumn. This merino wool bib in a versatile, neutral tobacco shade from Arket is brilliant over shirts or long-sleeve tees. We guarantee it will be the addition to your wardrobe you never knew you were missing but will wear the most this season.
Boden
Davies Cord Blazer, £110
A statement cord, or velvet blazer in a jewel tone is a great autumnal foil to neutral wardrobe classics for work and denim at weekends. Look for a fitted style to wear now, and then layer up with a neutral winter coat come November to reveal a flash of colour underneath. Tie the look together by picking out the tones in your pop of colour blazer with your accessories; a cocktail ring, a pair of colour-block socks or even nail colour will pull the outfit together in style.
COS
Sleeveless Wool Blazer, £125
This is brilliant worn alone with co-ordinating city shorts and heels to show off the last remnants of tanned limbs as summer becomes a distant dream. But as the days march on, you can also layer it up over blouses and dresses to cinch in the waist and give the warmth of a lightweight jacket, yet show off statement voluminous sleeves (another autumn trend) or bold prints. It will fit seamlessly under overcoats come winter, too.
Hayley Menzies
Ikat Cotton Duster, £340
If ever there was an investment piece for autumn, this is it. Queen of maximalist knitwear Hayley Menzies’ range of cotton dusters are all you need to transform an everyday look to a show-stopping, head-turner. Fashion peacocks only need apply – choose from bold Grecian patterns, animal prints and ikat styles and team simply with denim and tees to balance out the look perfectly.
Charli
Oversized Denim Jacket, £260
No trans-seasonal wardrobe would be complete without a denim jacket. This season, change things up by opting for a pastel shade in an oversized fit for a nineties vibe. Great for toughening up those summer florals and making them feel more urban. Just add trainers for an instant autumn update.
By Lydia Mansi
September 2020
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