Dressing for the grey area between seasons can be difficult. The weather tends to be more unpredictable than ever, and shops are filled with a jumble of clothes that just aren't quite right for the time of year, which makes assembling outfits a nightmare.
Putting together outfits that work between seasons is called transitional dressing, and it's a skill we should all try to master. Here, we're going to talk you through some hints and tricks that will help, as well as what pieces you'll be happy to have in your wardrobe when the sun just can't make its mind up. Read on to learn more.
Layer up
When we're between seasons, it's hard to predict what the weather's going to be like. It could be freezing one day, and mild the next. So, you can't confidently throw on a winter coat, or leave the house in a lightweight top and jeans. In these situations, it's best to wrap up in layers. Then, the combination of pieces will keep you warm enough on cold days, but you'll be able to take off a few of your layers if you begin to feel too hot.
But, you can't just throw on every T-shirt and hoodie in your arsenal — there's an art to it. So, if the concept's new to you and you aren't sure what you're doing, it's vital that you do some research first. The gentleman's style bible, The Idle Man, has a great guide to layering your outfit that can teach you all of the basics. So, when you leave the house, you'll be warm enough, but won't look like you're wearing everything you own.
Adopt next season's trends early
If you’re eager for spring to begin, you can get a head start by incorporating some of next season's trends into your wardrobe. Thanks to social media and the extensive media coverage of every Fashion Week, we can all see what's going to be in the shops long before new stock hits the shelves. This means it's easy enough to step up your transitional dressing game by getting ahead.
Of course, you won't always be able to wear the latest Spring/Summer designs when it's still freezing outside. But, you could give a nod to the season that's approaching by wearing new prints, seasonal colours, and different fabrics.
Opt for lightweight outerwear
You'll obviously need a heavy coat to keep you warm in the depths of winter. But, you'll also require a lightweight jacket for those days between seasons when it's mild outside, but you don't trust the weather forecast enough to leave your coat at home.
Rain can strike at any time in the UK, which means investing in a lightweight jacket made of a technical fabric is likely to be the best option. Pritchards offers a huge range of men's coats and jackets that would fit the bill, and they offer next day delivery on orders over £100. So, your chosen jacket could be with you as soon as tomorrow.
Invest in versatile footwear
If you're the type of guy who has a sturdy pair of boots for winter and some flimsy trainers for summer, it might be time to invest in some footwear that sits firmly in the middle.
Desert boots are ideal, because they're not quite formal boots or casual shoes, which means there's not a lot they won't go with. And, while they traditionally have a beige or tan design, they now come in a huge range of colours, so you should have no trouble finding a pair that will fit into your wardrobe seamlessly.
Clarks stocks a huge range of men's desert boots, and is a go-to brand for men looking for classic footwear that's guaranteed to last. Plus, their stores are scattered all across the UK, so it's easy enough to pop in and try your favourite pair of desert boots on.
Make chinos a wardrobe staple
Every man should have at least one pair of chinos in his wardrobe: they're stylish, easy to wear, and can be bought in a huge range of colours. Plus, they come into their own during transitional periods, as they're incredibly versatile. They'll keep you warm on colder days, but are also lightweight enough to prevent you from getting too hot if the weather's milder than you expected.
Pick up a pair of chinos from your favourite high street brand, and you'll be perfectly prepared for the transitional period between seasons.
If you can never find something to wear when the weather is at its most unpredictable, investing in these pieces will certainly help. You'll have footwear for every occasion, a jacket that will keep you dry but cool, and some trousers that you can't go wrong with. What more could you want?
