Wardrobe Essentials: Garments for the Summer-to-Fall Transition

Emma Caldwell
August 30, 2026

There are a few weeks in the year when getting dressed becomes especially tricky. Summer is not over yet, temperatures remain high for much of the day, and yet the most summer-appropriate garments start to feel less appealing.

It’s that moment when sandals still make sense, but the first closed-toe shoes begin to appear, jackets return to keep us company in the morning, and light fabrics coexist with others that are slightly warmer.

The solution doesn’t necessarily involve stocking up on autumn clothes ahead of time, but rather turning to those transitional pieces capable of functioning now and remaining useful during the coming months. Basics that allow you to play with layering, combine in many different ways, and adapt easily to temperature changes.


Lightweight red jacket from Massimo Dutti.

Lightweight red jacket from Massimo Dutti.

One of our first suggestions is this lightweight red jacket from Massimo Dutti. It is a perfect option for the transitional season. A bomber-style design with central buttons. A light, comfortable piece available for about 89.95 euros.


Romantic-style blouse by Ba&sh.

Romantic-style blouse by Ba&sh.

Romantic-style shirts are perfect for the transitional season. They are the kind of garments that add a special touch to the look. On this occasion, we recommend this embroidered-blouse from the French brand Ba&sh from the new collection, available for 215 euros.


High-waisted jeans in mid blue by Maje.

High-waisted jeans in mid blue by Maje.

Jeans cannot be missing from this list. We’ve added a very versatile high-waisted design, perfect for returning to denim in September. A very flattering model from the French brand Maje. It is a jean from the new collection.


White knit dress by Sandro.

White knit dress by Sandro.

Knit dresses solve any transitional look. One of our favorites is this model from the French brand Sandro. It is a straight-cut design with a panel detail at the hem. A model available in more tones for 295 euros.


Moccasins with strap detail by Parfois.

Moccasins with strap detail by Parfois.

Moccasins return for another season. That said, if you want to try new options we recommend this very original and modern model from the Portuguese brand. It features a strap detail across the instep. A leather model available for 49.99 euros.


Fringed cardigan by NKN.

Fringed cardigan by NKN.

An alternative to the classic cardigan is this fringed design in green. It is a button-front jacket with fringes on the sleeve. A comfortable model perfect for those first days that get a little cooler. A design available for about 104 euros.


Striped T-shirt by Stine Goya.

Striped T-shirt by Stine Goya.

A striped T-shirt cannot be missing from a transitional wardrobe. We love this striped design in blue and brown tones. A very comfortable model from the Danish brand Stine Goya that you can get for about 95 euros.

Emma Caldwell
Emma Caldwell
I’m Clara Desrosiers, a writer and fashion editor based in Toronto. I founded Backdoor Toronto to explore the intersection of fashion, identity, and culture through honest storytelling. My work is driven by curiosity, community, and a love for the creative pulse that defines this city.