ASK DANIELLE Solving style dilemmas
Fashion Quarterly’s fashion editor solves transseasonal your style dilemmas.
ADD AND SUBTRACT
This is where quick changes come into things: start the day with workable layers if it’s chilly, or pack a tote with emergency warm additions if it’s a scorching morning. A lightweight fitted sweater (like the Juliette Hogan turtleneck I’m wearing here) layered over a sleeveless blouse is a good place to start – simply ditch the knit if the mercury rises. It’s not for everyone, but wearing a heel or sandal that can be layered with a sock is a great alternative to committing to a boot for the day.
TIE TO GET BY
It might be a good time to brush up on your sweater-tying skills so you can transport your layers on your person. Depending on your personal style, perhaps a preppy knot over the shoulders is the way to go? Or do you prefer to have a layer tied casually
around the hips? Don’t underestimate how chic a coat can look tied at the waist, especially if you’re open to an experimental silhouette. It’s pouring at 8am but scorching by the afternoon, and my outfits just can’t keep up. I’m either sweltering, or freezing by the end of the day. How do I dress for such
erratic weather and stay looking put-together? Prepare for a few trips to the ladies’ room to either strip back or add pieces back on. Think about your favourite styles in your wardrobe and how you might be able to find alternatives that provide more flexibility in outfit weight. Love tunics? Why not try out a sleeveless A-line dress with a cosy knit underneath. Pants more your shtick? Opt for a silky wide leg and add a sneaky pair of tights that can be removed in a flash. A look back through Phoebe Philo’s collections during her tenure at Celine provides endless
layering inspiration that’s anything but dull. Nailing transseasonal dressing is all about experimenting with
the (surprisingly fun) art of layers.
ALWAYS TAKE THE WEATHER WITH YOU
It seems like an obvious one, but in the throes of the morning rush the simple task of checking the weather can often be overlooked. Before you stare aimlessly into the depths of your wardrobe, make your first port of call your phone’s weather app to see how the day is (supposedly) going to pan out.
SPICE UP YOUR LIFE
Don’t be scared to follow your instincts and try out something a little unexpected. Love the colour pink? Let a pair of tights or socks peep through your shoe. Got a thing for leopard?
Experiment with mixing different versions of the print in the same look. Don’t get hung up on rules – dressing is better if it actually feels fun, free and, most importantly, right for you.