My kingdom for the ability to completely redo, revamp and restyle my wardrobe from season to season and year to year.
Unfortunately, as a college student, my tiny apartment’s closet space and waning bank account aren’t on the same page.
For this reason, I find it extremely valuable to narrow down what pieces will be the most versatile and add the most character to my already exiting collection of clothes.
On one hand, it’s important to buy things that aren’t too similar to what you already have. On the other, the worst thing is to buy something that never loses its tags; something that happens more frequently when we try to step out of our style comfort zone.
The best way to combat this is to first picture the piece under consideration in your closet.
If you can create at least two to three new complete looks with it, chances are you’ll get solid and worthwhile wear.
Like anything else, there are always exceptions, but I’ve generally found success when I keep this rule in the back of my mind.
Of the four pieces listed here, my goal is that at least one fits your style and aesthetic enough to find its way into your wardrobe.
Transitioning from summer to fall can be difficult in regard to both the array of temperatures, as well as vastly different styles.
The following pieces do nothing but cut down outfit debate time and furthermore, serve as inspiration for curating a more versatile (but also personal) wardrobe.
Fatigue Jacket
The beauty here is ease.
True, the waning days of September may be too humid for a jacket, but as the night cools down and long sleeves become a must, you’ll love this piece’s ability to pair with a number of dresses and skirts, any wash denim wash, and even the occasional romper.
During the day, the olive color looks effortlessly chic with a pair of white skinnies or later in the fall, a darker shade of denim.
Go fitted for a more feminine feel or buy from a men’s store for a truly borrowed-from-the-boys look.
Leather Skirt
If I had to live with one skirt for the rest of my life, it would be my black leather skirt. If I could choose two, my next pick would be my brown leather skirt.
Talk about versatility. I’ve worn these skirts to class, for a night out and even for an interview.
The black pairs excellently with matching tights if the night is colder than usual and the leather of both looks great with silk or any other blousy material.
Additionally, shoes are a total cakewalk. Flats, boots, pumps, you name it; anything but flip-flops or sneakers and you’re an instant ten.
Floral pants
The bold print here is of incredible importance.
I realize the silliness of such a statement but if you aren’t immediately drawn to it, you won’t wear these pants.
This is because with floral pants, they are the absolute star of an outfit.
For this reason they’re the ideal transition piece: whether you pair them with a pink tank top or pink sweater is only dependent on the weather.
If it works with one in the summer, you know already it works in the fall.
Booties
If you don’t have a pair of booties, you don’t know what you’re missing.
Whether suede or leather, they can instantly polish any look with an unexpected pop of edge.
I’d recommend buying them in a neutral color so that they can easily replace the neutral sandals everyone owns once open toed footwear becomes unrealistic.
Similar to the fatigue jacket, pairing with white jeans is an excellent way to bring summer and fall into one cohesive and on-trend look.
