Wear Now, Wear Later

The evening chill that signals the impending arrival of crisp fall days is coming, and with it come thoughts of transitioning our carefree summer wardrobe into something more polished. It's certainly a question worth contemplating while we shop summer sales and look at the new arrivals trickling in, trying to figure out the pieces we can wear right away and keep wearing. Here's my shortlist of 6 pieces that'll take you through the transition in style.

The piece: A denim or chambray shirt (like this one from Zara, $59.90).

Why: What once seemed to be a passing revived fad has proven to be a resuscitated classic. If you haven't jumped on the bandwagon yet, it's time to figure out how this casual chic staple might work in your wardrobe.

Wear now: As a relaxed substitute for cardigans and blazers with the sleeves pushed up. It's still too warm for anything thicker, after all.

Wear later: With the top button buttoned up and a jeweled necklace and prim pencil skirt.

The piece: A lace-embellished tee (like this one from H&M, $12.95).

Why: For only $12.95, why not? The lace makes it slightly dressier than a basic tee.

Wear now: Tucked into full knee-length skirts for a fit-and-flare silhouette that'll make you feel like a nouveau Audrey Hepburn on a hot summer day.

Wear later: With anything. T-shirts are made for layering.

The piece: J. Crew Collection 'Janey' calf hair flats ($344).

Why: I love the look of heels as much as the next girl, but as a commuter my flats get worn the most so I always try to go for interesting ones. Like lace and chambray, leopard print is a modern classic; here it's updated with on-trend metallic detailing.

Wear now: With office shorts, a white blazer, and cat-eye shades.

Wear later: With cropped wool trousers or skinny jeans.

The piece: Colourful cropped trousers in cotton (like J. Crew's bestselling Cafe Capris).

Why: The cotton Cafe Capris are on sale! Unlike its wool and silk counterparts, the cotton Cafe Capri is machine-washable. Besides, Vancouver doesn't get cold enough for the wool version until at least November anyways.

Wear now: With striped tees and contrasting brightly coloured skinny belts.

Wear later: With a flannel blazer and cap-toed pump as pictured above.

The piece: A silk dress (like the Madewell pleated shirtdress, $158).

Why: Regardless of the season, throwing on a dress is the easiest way to look put-together instantly. Plus, silk is light and airy for the summer months but is also an insulating fabric when the mercury drops.

Wear now: With metallic sandals and a small cross-body bag.

Wear later: With tights, oxfords, and a cashmere cardigan.

The piece: Cute canvas sneakers (like these Keds for Madewell polka dot ones, $62).

Why: Keds can be worn barefoot when it's warm, with socks when it's cold, and look good both ways.

Wear now: With denim shorts and a striped tee as you make your way through the PNE, eating your weight in funnel cake and mini doughnuts.

Wear later: For laid-back Sundays consisting of brunch and grocery-shopping.

Your turn! What are your must-have transitional pieces for this time of the year?