I’m Already Feeling the Autumn Vibes—5 Chic Outfits to Transition into the New Season

      I’m in the process of transforming my spare room into a walk-in wardrobe (yes, it’s the viral IKEA PAX hack), which means a major decluttering is underway. As a fashion editor with an extensive collection of clothes, I need to prioritize the pieces I’ll be wearing the most in the upcoming months. The only challenge is that while summer is still in full swing, autumn is approaching quickly. So, should I focus on shorts and cami tops or knitwear and jackets? The answer is: both.

      The tricky transitional period between summer and autumn requires a strategic approach, blending the two seasons with smart layered outfits that don’t fit neatly into one category. To illustrate my point, I sought outfit inspiration from some of the most stylish women I follow. The result is five outfits that will be perfect for this time of year. Think drummer jackets paired with jeans and sandals, and oversized jumpers combined with sporty shorts and flip-flops. Meanwhile, essential pieces like a shirt, a cropped trench, and the classic T-shirt are making a strong comeback. Here are some effortless outfits to try out over the next few weeks using items you likely already have in your wardrobe.

      5 Summer-to-Autumn Transitional Outfit Ideas to Emulate in 2026:

      1. Cropped Trench + Satin Top + Balloon Trousers

       - Style Notes: If we must return to wearing jackets, they should enhance our outfits, right? A cropped trench is the ideal style to bridge the seasons, and I admire how Hannah has added volume and texture with her balloon trousers made of satin and suede.

       - Shop the Look:

       - MANGO Double-Breasted Cropped Trench Coat: For Hannah's oversized look, consider sizing up once or twice.

       - Topshop Satin Scoop Neck Cami With Fringe Detail Tie: I recently ordered this cute Topshop top with a tassel tie.

       - COS Gathered Cotton Balloon Trousers: If you're not ready to swap summer shorts for jeans just yet, opt for voluminous balloon pants.

       - MAISON MARGIELA Tabi New Ballerina Split-Toe Patent-Leather Ballet Flats

       - Massimo Dutti Ruched Split Suede Leather Bag: Now is the time to pull out your suede accessories.

      2. Long Sleeve T-Shirt + Short Sleeve T-Shirt + Midi Skirt

       - Style Notes: Nnenna excels at clever layering, here focusing on stacked tops. This micro-trend thrived in summer and is now transitioning into autumn. It’s a simple way to adapt to fluctuating temperatures without immediately reaching for a jacket or coat.

       - Shop the Look:

       - Reformation Roya Cashmere V-Neck: Since CPHFW, it’s clear that aqua is going to be a major shade.

       - COS T-shirts are known for their perfect weight.

       - & Other Stories Pleated Midi Skirt: This will pair wonderfully with a check shirt in the autumn.

       - VERAFIED Café Mini Leather Shoulder Bag: Verafied is one of my go-to mid-price bag brands.

       - Reformation Calista Scrunch Heel

      3. Jumper + Sporty Shorts + Flip Flops

       - Style Notes: I adore the combination of autumn on top and summer on the bottom. Whether it’s a knit with sporty shorts (like Aimee’s look above) or a jacket zipped with a skirt, this formula is ideal for this in-between season.

       - Shop the Look:

       - Slow Love Aran Jumper Oat Milk: The coziest knit from British brand Slow Love.

       - With Nothing Underneath The Boyfriend: Remember to pop the collar, just like Aimee.

       - SPORTY & RICH Logo-Embroidered Jersey Shorts: I want the matching track jacket as well.

       - 2026 sunglasses = the bigger, the better.

       - MANGO Leather Straps Sandals: I plan to wear flip-flops until it’s no longer suitable.

      4. Fitted Shirt + Canvas Jacket + Utility Trousers

       - Style Notes: This is an outfit I’d gladly wear to work. Combining a shirt with relaxed utility pieces is a winning formula. I still believe strongly in the power of a shirt layered over a vest top, and my 18-year-old self, who never left the house without a statement necklace, is thrilled they’re back in style.

       - Shop the Look:

       - & Other Stories Oversized Drawstring Utility Jacket: The drawstring waist is essential.

       - Arket Cotton Poplin Shirt: Pink and green will always be classics for me.

       - ASOS DESIGN Thick Binding Rib Scoop Neck Vest: A simple white vest will carry through to autumn.

       - Rixo Liana Silver Plated Tassel Necklace in Silver: Tassel necklaces are everywhere right now—this Rixo x Billie Bhatia style is