Fashion: Hot trans-season buys

Zandra Rhodes for People Tree flared dress, £85, at www.peopletree.co.uk

The sales are fading and the High Street stores and boutiques are beginning to make noises about the new season, as we enter what has become known as the trans-season period (ie., a bit of old, a bit of new, a bit of everything, actually – just throw it all on. You’ll look great).

It’s just typical that the sun emerges as the remnants of the summer collections are being cleared away to make space for the autumn/winter wardrobe that we are now all supposed to be turning our thoughts towards. Who’d be a fashion retailer in the UK, trying to second guess what people want ro wear, and when they will want to wear it?

Still, there are a few bargains still to be had in the sales, although the reduced stock is becoming increasingly hard to find, both in store and online. I’ve found that typing “sale” into the online store search windows is the quickest way to locate what’s left.

Look out for tunic dresses as these are the perfect trans-season staple, both patterned and in block colour (look for red and orange), to wear on their own and tightless with sandals on a hot day (although M&S do heat-sensitive black tights if you refuse to go without), and then team with knitwear and boots when it’s cooler.

Bear in mind that it’s all going quite luxe for autumn and especially into winter, with rich textures and pattern with lustre. This does not mean, however, that it will be fussy, because actually lines are pared back and there’s a sophisticated edge and structured feel to new shapes, with new proportions for layering, bringing in swing dresses, flares and bootlegs.

So, look out for the flares and wide leg trousers, also peasant blouses and wide hats as the Seventies’ trend continues into autumn/winter, but takes on a more elegant appeal.

Snap up denim dresses, especially shirt styles which continue to be strong into autumn and make perfect trans-season pieces, great worn open as a light jacket over jeans or a tunic dress, or try open and belted over your cotton summer maxi.

Big floppy hats are ideal too, but don’t forget your sun cream.