5 Tips to Dress Rationally on 3-Season Days
September: the month with a personality crisis. One day it feels like picnic & swimming pool season, the next, you want to bundle up in flannel and ear muffs. Even more, it’s autumn chilly on the morning commute to work; fresh and fragrant like spring at lunch time, and summery-warm by mid-afternoon. It’s tricky to dress “season appropriate,” and maintain comfort when temperatures swing in a 35-degree range. Not to mention fluctuations with indoor heating and cooling systems in many office buildings and restaurants. But you can look fabulous and be comfortable at the same time.
The Key:
Layering. That’s it. No complicated fashion codes to crack. What’s important, is knowing how to combine pieces. Can you wear summer’s white cotton gauze shirt under your new wool tweed jacket? That depends. Here’s a checklist to help you decide:
- Choose fabrics in moderate weights. With the exception of heavy-weight sweaters or jackets for outer layers, keep other garments in light-to-medium weights. They’ll co-mingle better when they’re not at opposite ends of the spectrum, and keeping things on the lighter side eliminates bulk.
- Opt for more-fitted silhouettes. When layering garments, maintaining
Source: Goodhousekeeping.com
shape is important. Close-fitting under layers help to keep things on the lean side. Use your natural shape as a guide, and if you’ve got a pronounced natural waistline, belt your outer layer for shape definition.
- Mix textures. All smooth surfaces are boring, and too much texture complicates an outfit. Consider layering texture over smooth base pieces. For example, a cashmere cardigan over a silk blouse or camisole. When you venture outdoors and discover a rise in temps, simply shed the sweater to quickly climate
Image source: asos.com
adjust.
- Harness the power of accessories. Hosiery and neckwear make an autumn style statement in gradual moves. A dark-colored walking short or pencil skirt worn with opaque tights provides coverage and an update from your summer outfit version. Scarves add “finish” and coverage in one easy step.
Have a comment? Question? Let me know your thoughts in the comment box below. I read them all. (You just might be the inspiration for my next blog post.)
Patty Buccellato, is an image coach and founder of Refined Images. She brings extensive knowledge and expertise to her work with men and women individually, as well as with corporate employee groups. Patty established Refined Images in 1994, and while her studio is based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, you’ll find her serving clients throughout North America in their homes, offices — and, yes, even in shopping malls! To get your FREE copy of Patty’s “How to Shop Like a Stylist,” visit www.RefinedImages.net or contact Patty.
Go here to claim your FREE eBook!
Connect with me! 
