As much as I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to summer, this is always the point where I start thinking a little differently about what I’m adding to my wardrobe.
For me, transitional dressing is where a wardrobe really proves its worth. It’s about investing in pieces that bridge the gap - the kind of wardrobe staples you can wear now with sandals and a raffia bag, before layering them with knitwear, loafers and tailoring a few weeks later.
So instead of buying pieces that only work for the next few weeks, I’m looking for things I know I’ll still be reaching for throughout September and beyond.
So I thought I’d share the 10 pieces I’d invest in right now if I were building an end-of-summer capsule wardrobe.
1. The Brown Bag
The accessory I’m reaching for more than anything else right now. It instantly warms up white denim, black tailoring and simple dresses, and only gets better as we head into autumn.
If you’ve been thinking about investing in a brown bag, I’d say now’s the time. It’s one of those colours that works just as well with summer’s lighter neutrals as it does with the richer tones that naturally creep into our wardrobes come autumn. It’s been a favourite of mine for a while now, and I can’t see it going anywhere anytime soon.
Style with everything from relaxed tailoring to blue denim and crisp shirting.
OR
Loewe puzzle bag, £2,700.00 - I own this in black and it’s definitely a staple in my wardrobe!
Toteme T-lock leather bag, £820.00 - This has been on my wish list for a year now. I love the size and this shade of brown for autumn.
2. Loafers
As soon as September arrives, these are the shoes I’ll be swapping my sandals for. They feel timeless, understated and instantly make an outfit look more polished.
Wear with tailored trousers and an oversized shirt, or with relaxed denim.
Gianvito Rossi suede loafers, £845.00
OR
Saint Laurent Le Loafer, £880.00
Belted Shirt
A belted shirt like this is one of those hardworking pieces that feels just as relevant now as it does once the weather starts to cool. Wear it loose, cinch the waist with the tie belt, or style it open as a lightweight overshirt depending on the day.
Style with relaxed denim and loafers, then swap in tailored trousers and a fine knit as autumn arrives.
Fabrique belted shirt, £180.00
4. Fine Knit Jumper
I’m always looking for lightweight knitwear at this time of year. It’s perfect for cooler mornings, evenings out or simply draped over your shoulders.
Layer over a shirt, tie around your shoulders or pair with relaxed tailoring.
COS merino wool jumper, £55.00
5. Blue Stripe Shirt
One of those forever pieces that never really goes out of style. It works just as well on holiday as it does back in the city.
Wear loose over a tank, half tucked into denim or layered beneath a knit.
COS blue striped cotton shirt, £85.00
6. Black Tailored Trousers
If I could only buy one thing for autumn, it would probably be a great pair of black trousers. They work with almost everything already in my wardrobe.
Pair with a simple knit and loafers, or dress down with trainers and a white tee.
OR
The Frankie Shop ‘Ripley’ trousers, £176.00
7. Straight-Leg Blue Jeans
After months of light fabrics and dresses, I’m always ready to go back to denim. A classic straight-leg pair is one of the hardest-working pieces in any wardrobe.
Style with loafers and a blazer, then chunky knitwear as the weather cools.
Agolde 90s’ pinch straight leg jeans, £300.00
8. Brown Leather Belt
It’s a small detail, but belts are one of the easiest ways to refresh outfits you already own. This rich chocolate tone feels especially right for the new season.
Use to add definition to tailoring or simply elevate your favourite pair of jeans.
Toteme lizard effect leather belt, £290.00
9. Adidas Spezial Trainers
I still reach for trainers most days, and this neutral colourway works beautifully with the softer tones of an autumn wardrobe.
Wear with tailored trousers or denim.
10. Sunglasses
If you know me, I love a good pair of sunglasses all year round! A neutral frame feels softer than classic black and complements all the tones I’ll be wearing next season. I already own this pair and I reach for them all the time!
No outfit is complete without a good frame.
Loewe aviator sunglasses, £280.00
The best wardrobes are built slowly, and I think this is one of the smartest times of year to invest.
Rather than feeling like you need a whole new autumn wardrobe overnight, focus on adding a few versatile pieces that you’ll genuinely wear on repeat. They’re the foundations that make getting dressed feel that little bit easier – both now and well into the months ahead.
See you on Sunday!
Love,
Erna x
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