20 Transitional Closet Essentials

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? A clean-lined knit dress always works, and is so easy to layer in the cooler weather. The wine color of this one from Anthropologie is a key color for the fall season, and the ruched bodice is the ideal trick detail to create a little disturbance in the fabric - expertly concealing any little bumps and bulges, yet giving the appearance of a clean silhouette. The dress also has a stretchy lining which helps keep things smooth.
Wear it with NOW: Throw on a pair of neutral or metallic sandals and a great statement necklace.
Wear it with LATER: The ruched detail isn’t fussy, so you can add an oversized chunky cardigan over it, or add your favorite denim jacket, with some great lace-up boots.
Fit Tip: In XS-XL the modern fit runs true to size, with an asymmetrical hem that really works on any height.
Alternatives: It’s all about the ruching to slim the torso and make any fitted dress look amazing - Susana Monaco’s sleeveless grey sweater version will make you feel amazing and can even be layered over a simple black turtleneck in the fall. Bailey44’s striped take has a higher neckline, if that’s your preference.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? A shirtdress highlights the menswear trend of the season ahead, and this one from MICHAEL Michael Kors uses the timeless blue stripe of a classic mens dress shirt that can be worn right now.
Wear it with NOW: With an open pair of shoes, as is shown through the ‘shop it’ button and even a pop of summery color in a necklace, roll up the sleeves and you’re ready for a day at the office.
Wear it with LATER: Simple medium brown pumps will coordinate with the belt (that comes with the dress), though we especially like playing up the menswear trend with block heeled loafers and a tailored navy blazer.
Fit Tip: This dress has a modern fit, in sizes 2-16. Unlike many shirtdreses, this one has a flared skirt that adds a little ease of movement and accentuates a lady’s waist.
Alternatives: Michael Stars’ easy black shirtdress has simple lines, and is a made of really soft and fluid fabric that will transition with ease.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? A seasonless cardigan in a neutral color (we’re showing the grey, but it’s also available in black through the ‘shop it’ button) is an easy way to transition with the seasons. And Vince sweaters always stand the test of time. This one is a mix of wool & silk, which is really versatile with the weather, in an open mesh stitch that keeps it from being too heavy.
Wear it with NOW: Over a tank top and easy cotton pants or jeans, this sweater will protect you from any air-conditioning breeze.
Wear it with LATER: Layer it over long sleeves, for a just as reliable go-to in the fall. It will take on a casual look over skinny jeans or leggings, yet provides a tailored finish over slim wool or ponte trousers.
Fit Tip: Vince’s sweaters often have a relaxed fit, and that is true of this one. Go with your normal size for an easy and comfy shape – if you are between sizes or want a trimmer look, size down.
Alternatives: For a more tailored option, look no further than J.Crew’s cotton Jackie cardigan. The best-selling silhouette (it’s the right proportion for everyone) is redone in a neutral herringbone pattern that is utterly seasonless.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? 525 America is one of our go-to brands for knits that can be layered and worn on their own. This sleeveless turtleneck does just that.
Wear it with NOW: The rayon fabric has nice weight and variegated ribbed texture that looks really beautiful on its own. The rich hue is super chic with pale colors (think white, cream, or pale grey) in the warmer months. And don’t be deterred by the turtleneck – it’s very stylish for the end of the summer, hinting at fall without going overboard thanks to the sleeveless shape.
Wear it with LATER: The color is perfect for the cooler weather and the sleek style can be worn under a cardigan or blazer with ease. You won’t go wrong when you pair it with a skirt, trousers, or jeans of any shape.
Fit Tip: It is a fitted silhouette, and the fabric has stretch and give, so go with your normal size in this modern brand.
Alternatives: It comes in Ivory through the ‘shop it’ button, as well, which is an easy neutral that will work under all your blazers and cardigans throughout the upcoming season.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? It is all about that detail at the waist. We always love this accent, but especially in tees and tanks since the simplicity and thin fabric can often lead to accidentally highlighting some lumps and bumps. Once the pleat is added, you get just enough shape to conceal, while still keeping the look effortless.
Wear it with NOW: White is great for the end of summer, always an ideal neutral. It will highlight your sun-kissed skintone and is pretty with anything. The shape can be worn with shorts, relaxed cotton pants, or skinny jeans.
Wear it with LATER: All the same silhouette pairings still apply, but you can play with darker denim washes, and all your favorite fall colors, too. The drapey soft cotton is easy to layer under an open cardigan.
Fit Tip: Michael Stars is a fabulous resource for knits that come in One Size Fits Most, so you don’t have to worry about what size you are. This is what made it one of our best selling knit brands when we had stores – the fit really does work on most every lady.
Alternatives: It comes in a neutral oyster beige color through the ‘shop it’ button, as well. If you prefer short sleeves, Stateside has got you covered in solid and striped.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? Not only do we recommend hanging on to a sleeveless tee that has flattering waist detail, we recommend adding a long sleeve version, too. This one from Stateside is truly a must-have in a high-end slub cotton and length that hits at the perfect spot.
Wear it with NOW: We’re featuring the navy, a color that looks great now with white jeans or shorts/cropped pants in a bold summer color.
Wear it with LATER: We love that this tee actually flatters a lady’s figure, unlike clingier fitted tees that can actually highlight muffin top. So you don’t need to layer this under a cardigan to feel comfortable – but it looks equally good when you do.
Fit Tip: Stateside is a contemporary brand, but the fit of this tee isn’t too trim, so go with your normal size.
Alternatives: It also comes in neutral charcoal and white color options through the ‘shop it’ button. Michael Stars has a great striped version and Enza Costa has a casual heathered grey take. With all of these options, that’s proof of this silhouette’s staying power – and flattering shape.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? Peplum hems and faux wrap styling still look modern and updated. Banana Republic uses timeless colors in an always stylish stripe to create this desk-to-dinner blouse.
Wear it with NOW: Navy or white cotton pants in a wide leg or slim shape really highlight the crisp color pattern. It also looks flawless under a white suit.
Wear it with LATER: The deep navy ground and deeper red tone make this an easy top to transition to fall. The navy shade is so dark it looks very chic with black trousers and/or a blazer. And of course, you can’t go wrong pairing it with your favorite jeans and a hip, black leather jacket for a night out.
Fit Tip: Banana Republic has a modern fit that isn’t too trim, and the body of this top is loose and easy. If you are between sizes, you can even size down – available in XS-XL, and petites, too.
Alternatives: For a work-ready alternative, J.Crew’s tie neck burgundy pattern top has equal versatility – so pretty with white or tan now, and the rich jewel tone is beautiful with black, olive or navy in the cooler months.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? This season has been all about showing off those shoulders – and that’s not changing for fall. Instead of true off-the-shoulder styling, though, we see cut-outs and will also offer ways to layer so that it’s a trend anyone can wear. Start with this cotton blend sweater from Anthropologie.
Wear it with NOW: The light neutral looks great with pastel and bold colors – and has a real ‘cool girl’ feel when paired with your favorite distressed jeans.
Wear it with LATER: The marled fabric mixes in grey/black tones, so it is easy to wear with black pants or a skirt. And it completes dark wash jeans for a feminine night out look.
Fit Tip: The fit is modern, and really ideal for most every lady. The length hits mid-hip on most, and the body has a tailored shape that is decidedly not oversized, without being skintight. The best part, of course, is that the shoulder detail is sexy – and very bra-friendly.
Alternatives: Ella Moss has a slinky jersey version in an incredible dusty purple, as well as black – a sexy date night version that is equally bra-friendly.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? Those wide leg black trousers are just as fresh for the season ahead as they were for the one we’re leaving behind. Vince’s version has a side-zip for a really smooth finish and slimming fit.
Wear it with NOW: We don’t need to tell you that the clean lines of a simple pair of wide leg trousers go with everything – you know what to do.
Wear it with LATER: Besides those classic button down shirts and silk blouses, these trousers are an easy option with a simple shell and patterned blazer or cropped leather jacket for fall.
Fit Tip: Vince has a modern attitude and fit. While the fit is easy, they're not oversized like many of their sweaters. Go with your normal size.
Alternatives: Alice+Olivia’s camel version is sophisticated and simple, in a neutral tone that is so chic with white (now) and black (later).

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? Cropped flare silhouettes are so big for fall. The garment-dyed fabrics (that look washed to perfection) give this version from J.Crew lots of seasonal versatility.
Wear it with NOW: A linen button down and open toe shoes make these pants an easy Summer Friday option at the office. And a tank top or graphic tee and sneakers will have you ready for brunch in no time.
Wear it with LATER: Cropped pants can seem tricky for the cooler weather, but with booties being so big for fall, the combination is perfection. You can see what mean in this picture here. And these chinos look great with a rugged distressed leather, or suede – in any heel height. Just make sure the hem overlaps the top of the bootie.
Fit Tip: These have a mid-rise that sits comfortably between the hip and belly button and the fabric has some nice stretch to it, so they run true to J.Crew’s modern sizing. And they’re available in a wide size range, 23-32.
Alternatives: They come in several amazing washed colors through the ‘shop it’ button. Alternatively, Vince’s version comes in crisp navy and khaki, with a higher rise and slightly easier, modern fit.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? Those simple twill pencil skirts in neutral shades, like this olive one from Anthropologie, continue to make a stylish fashion statement.
Wear it with NOW: Easy for the end of summer, a mossy green pencil skirt is just as versatile as your favorite khaki pants or a pair of jeans. The slim silhouette is ideal to pair with a lightweight cotton sweater (even a slouchy one), a tucked-in button down, or an easy tank top/tee. Sandals, heels, and even sneakers look good with it.
Wear it with LATER: Give this timeless skirt a fall feel by pairing it with a turtleneck or plaid button down and a pair of booties or suede sneakers.
Fit Tip: This skirt is part of Anthropologie's own line, Pilcro, which has a modern fit, running true to size in 00-16 and petites. The fabric has a bit of stretch for comfort and the angle of the pockets create a really flattering shape that minimizes your hips.
Alternatives: It comes in an equally versatile mustard/khaki color through the 'shop it' button. And they also have a button front style that we love. The beautiful dusty pink option J.Crew offers is a color that is just as strong for fall as it is now.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? Midi-length skirts that hit between the knee and calf feel very updated, and this version from Eileen Fisher also highlights the importance of knits for the season ahead. But if we’re being honest, the “importance” of knits take a serious back seat to the comfort.
Wear it with NOW: The stretchy jersey fabric is a blank canvas to be worn with a tucked in blouse or loose silky top that hits at the hip. Ballet flats look just as good as classic pumps.
Wear it with LATER: A tailored sweater, cardigan or blouse and blazer will all easily work with this skirt. Add tights and boots or booties for a modern look.
Fit Tip: The midi length on the model is accurate for most ladies, especially since it has a large size range of XXS-XL. The fold over waist band cuts across the lower belly in just the right spot to conceal, but doesn’t add bulk.
Alternatives: For a trimmer, contemporary fit, we absolutely swear by this ribbed James Perse skirt. We promise, it somehow magically conceals bumps and the waistband doesn’t dig at all.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? What’s more timelessly versatile than a classic London Fog trench with a detachable liner? Exactly...
Wear it with NOW: Keep on the detachable hood, but remove the lining, when those sun showers hit.
Wear it with LATER: The quilted liner makes this trench that ideal mid-season transitional piece. It's ideal when it's not quite cold enough for a wool coat, but too cool to pretend you don’t need a coat.
Fit Tip: London Fog’s fit is modern and not too trim, so it’s easy to layer this trench over blazers without being too snug. If you are between sizes, you can size down. It’s available in XS-XL, and petites, too.
Alternatives: Long Fog has a longer unlined option that also comes in black.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? You are not going to get through a fashion magazine without seeing a motorcycle jacket for fall. This suede version from BLANKNYC is an amazing way to do the trend without spending a fortune. And yes, it’s real suede.
Wear it with NOW: You won’t be able to resist feeling pretty cool when you wear it open, over a graphic tee or simple white tank with a great pair of jeans for a night out.
Wear it with LATER: The knit insets and back ensure this jacket conforms for comfort when you are wearing heavier layers underneath. So you’ll be able to wear it over a long sleeve tee or plaid button down, and also a cute sweater.
Fit Tip: It can be worn fully zipped up, too, creating a rounded neckline that looks great with a scarf. BLANKNYC is a contemporary brand, and the cut is trim for a sleek look, available in XS-L.
Alternatives: If you want to do the trend, but aren’t sure how “hardcore” you’re ready to go, Cole Haan’s moto jacket has that same tough vibe, but with cleaner lines and less hardware – in a super soft leather.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? White sneakers were THE thing for spring & summer, and don’t worry, that purchase was not made in vein. They are still fresh looking for fall. This version from JSLIDES highlights that chunkier sole that Puma has made so popular. They come in several white leather – and neutral suede – options through the ‘shop it’ button, and we’re highlighting the crisp white and navy combination.
Wear it with NOW: White sneakers go with everything, and we especially love them with boyfriend jeans, shorts, and easy sundresses for the end of the season.
Wear it with LATER: The same versatility holds up – you’ll just be switching out the sundresses for maxi dresses, those shorts for slim cargo pants and dark jeans. Early in the season, they look awesome with crop flared pants and jeans.
Fit Tip: As Nordstrom notes through the ‘shop it’ button, they run on the smaller side. If you are between sizes, size up.
Alternatives: You’ll never go wrong with a pair of Converse, and this white leather version is easy to wear year round.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? Just like moto jackets (noted above) are taking center stage for the upcoming season, so is velvet. It is the IT fabric of the season. And while it can feel a bit forced in apparel if you start wearing it too early, these Steve Madden slip-ons do it just right by using a gorgeous burgundy velvet for the upper, with a white sole that blends the seasons with ease. And the price point lets you play in the trend completely guilt-free.
Wear it with NOW: Just like any slip-on sneakers, these look great with denim in any silhouette – shorts, skinnies, boyfriends, crop flares. And they are just as cute with olive cargo pants or a simple knit summer dress. Really, don’t shy away from wearing them with lighter weight fabrics. They’re even cute with a lace top - the velvet plays into the feminine feel, while the sneaker styling gives them a fun edge.
Wear it with LATER: The deep burgundy shade is so pretty with black, navy, dark denim, and looks great with all the shades of olive that will be out. These are going to be the impulse buy that you are going to be pleasantly surprised at how much use you got out of them.
Fit Tip: While we suggest wearing them with invisible sneaker socks (we swear by Falke’s version) these do run on the smaller side. Size up if you are between sizes.
Alternatives: These come in black through the 'shop it' button, too, which is just as fabulous. And Vince’s velvet slip-on sneakers come in several colors, if you prefer a neutral option. And velvet isn’t the only cold weather fabric that looks great now – Superga’s beige sneakers have a woolly look that is cozy – but in a felt fabric that you can start wearing right away.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? Your basic ballet flats are making a big fashion comeback this upcoming season. And while the classic silhouette is still modern looking, there a couple of new updates to give you a reason to get a new pair. This pair from ECCO, highlights our favorite updated interpretation - a higher throat, which is more closed up on the foot.
Wear it with NOW: Still a true basic, the lack of toe cleavage doesn’t’ make them any less versatile, so wear them with everything in your warm weather wardrobe.
Wear it with LATER: And the same is true in the fall. They work with everything, including skirts, and the higher topline makes them feel more substantial with pants, too.
Fit Tip: ECCO is known for comfort and these have great padding, in a fit that runs true to size.
Alternatives: These ballet flats come in a few neutral options through the ‘shop it’ button. And French Sole offers a suede version that has a soft, and rich look. The other new way to do ballet flats this upcoming season is with ribbon-like laces that wrap around the ankle - great with skirts, dresses, and cropped pants to transition the seasons.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? These loafers look just like a certain very high-end designer with a heck of a lot of comfort and a much better price point. Patent leather is an easy transition material and loafers are the perfect representation of the menswear trend for fall.
Wear it with NOW: These loafers give cropped pants and jeans a fresh feel without looking too heavy.
Wear it with LATER: Truly, you’ll wear them with everything - from trousers with a blazer and button down for a work day, to a cool pair of cropped jeans and a great sweater on a more casual day. They’re so comfortable, you’ll forget that they are equally stylish.
Fit Tip: They run true to size with a lot of cushion in the sole.
Alternatives: Michael Kors offers a more tailored look that can even be worn with a skirt or dress for the office.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Staple? Your floral scarf will still look modern in the season ahead, especially if it has a smaller pattern and dark ground, like this one from Gap.
Wear it with NOW: The rich colors will make your basic white tee feel perfectly transitional and the oversized shape drapes beautifully with a denim jacket on a cooler summer evening.
Wear it with LATER: The flowers use most every color that you’ll be seeing for fall, so you are going to reach for this with everything from a basic white or denim shirt to a burgundy or black sweater.

Why is it a Closet Essentials Find? Chokers have become hugely popular this season and they continue into the fall. The shorter length is incredibly versatile. It looks so pretty with any neckline - crewneck, v-neck, wrap style, poking out from under a button down…you get the idea. And that’s what makes it such a great transitional accessory, too.We are obsessed with this chunky Lucite version from J.Crew in an absolutely stunning fig red color.
Wear it with NOW: The color really pops against white or a blushy pale pink to give a summer piece a modern feel.
Wear it with LATER: All the dark tones and denim of the season ahead play beautifully with this almost neutral shade of deep red.
Fit Tip: Click through the ‘shop it’ button to get a sense of the shorter length on the mannequin in the alternate view.
Alternatives: For less of a statement, this delicate gold chain highlights the choker trend in a more subtle way.