It's quite simple, really! When someone talks about an item of clothing as a 'transitional piece' It just means pieces which can be worn year round, so it can take you from one season to another.
The beauty of having transitional pieces in your wardrobe, is that you don't need a whole new wardrobe every time the weather changes.
Think layering, and think about having multiple uses for the items of clothing you buy.
Here are are top five pieces for a transitional wardrobe:
1. A Maxi Skirt
Maxi skirts are fabulous in warmer weather with a vest or floaty top, but don't rule these out for Autumn too! With a roll neck and cute ankle boots or knee boots, or a T-shirt, blazer and flats or trainers, a maxi skirt can give you so many more looks and outfits than you originally imagined!
2. A T-Shirt
T-shirts are such an important part of the transitional wardrobe. Make sure you find one which flatters your figure - for example if you have a bigger bust, you'll want a V neck rather than a crew neck. These can be worn under almost anything, and can also bring an accent of colour through under a blazer or trench coat, cardigan or jacket.
The beauty of the T-Shirt is that it is perfect for layering, and when you are a lady of a certain age, being able to cool down quickly is a life saver!
3. A Smock Dress
Smock dresses are our very favourite style of dress in every season. They aren't clingy but can be belted to accentuate a waistline easily. Generally the smock dress has a grandad neckline, which again flatters most ladies, and also lends itself well to layering up with a jersey top, turtle neck or roll neck for cooler months.
Dresses can be worn with any type of boot, as well as with flats or wedges in the spring and summer.
4. A Blazer
If you want to feel like you've made an effort without much thought, then a blazer is your best friend! Instantly levelling up jeans and trainers, a blazer can transform a casual outfit into an 'I feel fabulous' outfit in seconds, and they can also be worn over a thin knit top, or even a hooded top! Think outside the box with your blazers, you won't regret it!
5. Vest tops and Camisoles
It may sound strange, but don't pack away your sleeveless tops just yet! Layered with a chunky cardigan or blazer in the cooler months, a cami can give you a classic timeless look.
Which colours are transitional?
The easy answer is ... all of them! There are no rules in fashion, and no-one should think they can't wear a pop of colour in the darkest months, but you'll find that darker colours and more muted, neutral tones will be more prevalent at that time of year, so if you're thinking of dark denim, add a touch a fuschia pink. Black jeans and jacket? Add in some emerald green or cobalt blue.
Tan and navy are year round 'safe' colours, and mix well with other colours too. Navy looks fabulous with red, pale or dark pink, mustard and emerald or sage green, as well as baby blue.
Tan looks incredible with cream and ivory, khaki, pale pink and almost anything else!
Have a think about the pieces in your wardrobe and really think about how you can take them through into next season to get the maximum benefit from your clothing. Let us know how you get on!