The 10 Best Transition Pieces for Fall

Warm weather may be holding out across much of the country, but that doesn’t mean it is going to last forever. As the cooler months are upon us, this is the key time of year to take stock on the best transitional pieces of clothes. With these foundations, you will be able to keep some of your favorite spring/summer staples (like short sleeved button ups or super soft tees) out of your untouched bottom drawer a little longer.

A classic Henley is key for transition weather. While they look good all on their own, get more bang for your buck by layering them under short sleeved styles, or paired with a lightweight jacket, like a nylon coaches coat or bomber jacket.

Meanwhile, the shorts were fun while they lasted, but let’s face it, comprehensive looks really do fare better with pants. Skip the jeans and instead opt for fresh chinos or modernized corduroys. Both of these options have become reinvented. The Sharpshot Chino Peat by Zanerobe have a new silhouette, which include a relaxed waist and leg, but cinched ankles. And the 484 Slim-fit Pant by J.Crew in corduroy is not a 70’s rerun. Instead these pants are more fitted, come in neutral yet favorable colors, and really will add a new level of diversity to your pant options.

Finish off your ensemble with sneakers equipped for the elements (if and when they come), and of course a beanie.

Best Transition Pieces

The 10 Best Transition Pieces for Fall Layer on to maintain comfort & style even as the temperatures change

Shirt that can be a jacket:

Flannel: There are a few staple companies you know you can count on for your new favorite flannel. L.L.Bean is no doubt one. Take yours to the next step with fresh quilted lining. The PrimaLoft-Lined Shirt, $89, will be well used at the football game, campsite and (most likely) the increasingly chilly walk down to the dive bar for a late beer.

Photo: L.L. Bean
Lightweight Jacket:

A classic coaches jacket is a win for any season. We love the Stith Jacket, $55, by Brixton. Affordable, well-made, wind and water repellent, and it will bring some color to your closet.

Photo: Brixton
Vest:

The Aconcagua Vest, $99, by The North Face, is insulated for increased warmth, made with high-fill goose down, and features recycled content (reduces landfill waste.) Available in a slew of rich, fall colors, but we especially like the golden brown.

Photo: The North Face
Chinos:

Giving you more coverage than shorts, but not the heavy weight of jeans, a modern pair of chinos is perfect for fall. Try the Sharpshot Chino Peat, $120, by Zanerobe. They feature a relaxed fit, with tapered ankle, made from a comfy Cotton/Elastane mix.

Photo: Zanerobe
Cords:

Less expected than jeans or chinos, slim cords have a nod of vintage appeal, but updated to look totally current. Try the 484 Slim-fit Pant in Corduroy, $79.50, by J.Crew.

Photo: J.Crew
Beanie:

Keep one with you at all times; it's just a good practice. The Burton Hempstead Beanie, $29.95, is the token accessory for winter wardrobe prepping.

Photo: Burton
Cardigan:

The Balboa Cardigan, $79.50, by Levi's is a nice addition to have with you when you're not knowing exactly what kind of weather will be encountered. Keep the layers coming over a tee, and under a light jacket and finally a vest.

Photo: Levi's
Sneakers:

Premium water resistant leather uppers meet warm textile lining taking traditional sneakers into weatherized beasts. Try the Sk8-Hi 46 MTE, $85 by Vans, shown in (the very rich) dress blues.

Photo: Vans
Bomber Jacket:

There's good news regarding the sleek bombers you've been eyeing. Fall is the right season to legitimize buying one. Wear the Emory Satin Bomber, $150, from Stussy over a tee as the warm weather drifts away, and over a thin but warm sweater and thermal as the days get colder.

Photo: Stussy
Classic Henley:

The Classic Henley, $125, by Todd Snyder can hold its own going solo with slim jeans or chinos, but the real power of this simple, 100% cotton shirt is in its layering capabilities. Keep a few on hand to wear under, or over, your other favs.

Photo: Todd Snyder