Although perhaps surprising, the official last day of summer is 21 September. So there’s still time to eke out the last of your summer wardrobe in the hope of extending the longer days, warmer weather and al fresco dinners for a little longer, albeit if you do so wrapped under a blanket.

Following months of tumultuous weather, this is sure to come as great news for some: your favourite denim shorts, newly bought linen dress and comfy sandals that you may have worn only once or twice needn’t be packed away just yet.

However, while we can still expect some days of sunshine, there are already signs of an autumnal shift – leaves falling from trees, a slightly cooler breeze and the rather regular sighting of grey clouds in the sky – signalling what we’d refer to as a transitional time. And sadly, it often wreaks havoc with our wardrobes.

Of course, there are solutions that satisfy this shift. Here at Stylist, we’ve made it our job to solve all outfit woes, after all. So, with some clever styling tips and the incorporation of items already hiding in your wardrobe, you’ll easily be able to extend your summer wardrobe into late September and beyond without prioritising style over practicality. Think swapping sandals for boots, layering long-sleeve tops under your favourite T-shirts and, when in doubt, turning to that trusty trench coat. Below are the tips we turn to time and time again. 

While sandals will still look chic when paired with jeans and a thick-knit jumper, adding a summer spin to an effortless outfit, you may be a little chilly. So, if you’re wanting to wear the trending jorts, a mini skirt or a high hemline dress, for example, the time has now come to turn to boots.

This simple switch of keeping your toes covered will help lock in body heat. And, if opting for a knee-high style, keep your lower legs cosy as well. 

Ask any fashion editor their go-to way to warm up, and chucking on a trench coat is sure to feature quite highly. Whether shrugged over a summer dress, shorts or a simple pair of jeans, this classic coat will easily become one of the hardest-working items in any wardrobe. Plus, to keep the summer vibe going, opt for a lightweight beige shade or a more colourful pick. 

While summer style calls for vest tops and T-shirts, autumn is the time to lean into long sleeves. Perhaps the most simple style switch, reaching for these longer-length tops will help keep your arms warm without altering your look too drastically. Or, if you’re keen on having your summer top shine through, look to layering a long-sleeve shirt, top or jumper underneath, adding extra interest at the same time. 

Jumpers certainly signal a seasonal shift, yet they’re the easiest way to warm up any summertime outfit. Have a shoulder-bearing slip dress? Slip on a jumper. Slightly chilling in your shorts? Shrug on a jumper. Nervous that the weather will shift and your T-shirt will leave you shivering? Lay a jumper over your shoulder so you’re ready for every eventuality. And just like the trench coat, brighter, bolder shades will see you keep that summertime feeling. 

Images: Getty