When it comes to building a terrific transitional wardrobe — we're talking one that can handle sweltering summer days and crisp autumn nights — versatility is everything. The goal: adaptable staples you can layer, remix and rewear that play well with whatever the forecast throws at you. After all, the more mileage you get from a fashion favorite, the less you need to spend on season-specific extras. To help you upgrade your closet (and save beaucoup bucks in the process), we've rounded up our top picks for summer-to-fall staples that work way harder than they cost.
In case you're not familiar with the "rich mom" trend that's currently sweeping the style world, here's how we'd sum it up: dressing like one has money without being flashy about it. That means a wardrobe filled with simple-yet-chic staples like this crisp striped number that looks put together in the easiest, breeziest way — and also works perfectly as a versatile transitional piece.
Layer it over a tank on cooler summer nights or tuck it into some trousers for the office (or an early fall brunch date). The blue-and-white version is particularly timeless but there are 34 other styles to choose from too.
Stay yacht-ready at all times in this classic nautical-inspired cardi. Lightweight enough for cooler summer evenings, this piece deserves a spot in your rotation year-round — it was born to be paired with a crisp blouse and blue jeans. It's available in eight styles, including a solid black and white if you're resistant to sea-worthy stripes.
"I love the fit of this sweater!" wrote one fan who bought it in three colors. "Normally, I avoid cropped sweaters/jackets, but this one looked like it was a couple of inches below the waist, so I took a chance that it wasn't an optical illusion. So glad I did, as it fits perfectly and, due to the slightly longer length than a typical lady jacket, it's so flattering and soft! I love the feel of it as much as the look."
Thick pants just won't cut it on those particularly humid days, but these trousers are made of a lightweight cotton-linen blend, making them airy and comfortable enough for summer with enough coverage once fall begins its approach. You'll get a custom fit via the adjustable drawstring waist, and, maybe best of all, they have pockets!
They come in 15 colors, including fall-ready shades like Dark Coffee and Rust — as well as "I can't let go of summer" hues like Lavender and Sky Blue.
With a relaxed fit, flattering V-neck and ultra-soft fabric that resists creasing, this ruffled cap-sleeve dress is your passport to effortless shoulder-season vacation style. Shoppers say you can pull it out of your suitcase, give it a quick shake, and be ready to take off. It comes in 28 colors and sizes small to XXL. The midi length offers just the right amount of coverage when the evening breeze comes in, and the dress will look just as cute when worn with a cozy cardigan once autumn truly arrives.
When we saw Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle rocking a designer camel cape, we went shopping and found this dead ringer for a whopping 97% less. This beauty is washable, reversible and will be a classic fall-wardrobe piece as summer comes to a close. Cinch it with a belt for a flattering look. Not into camel? It comes in nearly 40 styles.
"Got so many compliments on this," shared a cape-loving customer. "I wore it to a ... luncheon and everyone loved it. Was nice and warm when outside. It was very versatile."
If you're always on the hunt for denim that makes you look and feel your best (and who isnt?), these bestsellers deliver. There's nothing more versatile than a flattering pair of blue jeans when it comes to any seasonal wardrobe — pair it with a tee for a casual summer look, or a flannel button-down for a stylish autumnal vibe.
Our own executive editor said she feels like a "sexy mama" in her GVs. In her full review, she wrote, "I'm not exactly sure what the Gloria Vanderbilt gurus did to make these jeans so flattering, but they're cut to accentuate the smallest part of your natural waist, eliminating muffin-top madness."
There's nothing more classic than a fresh white tee, and this one is the ideal starting point for a wide variety of fashionable 'fits. It has a slouchy silhouette and is made from breathable, opaque fabric. It comes in 40 colors, ranging from bright and colorful to simple and versatile, plus a bunch of prints too. Bonus: It has a stylish pocket and rolled-up sleeves for an effortlessly cool look — and you can grab one for as low as just $9.
As for the fit? It's roomy without being boxy and loose while still being body-appreciative. "The fabric is soft. The cut is loose and not clingy. I love that the length is NOT short, yet not too long. The sleeves are just the right length. I originally ordered this in white and gray and will be ordering more colors... I'm going to clear out my others that have shrunk and pilled. The value of these shirts makes it easy to do this! Highly recommend," said a fan.
Layer this jacket over a T-shirt and jeans to instantly elevate your look, or toss it on over a dress for added warmth once fall arrives. This jacket falls just below the knee, so you can wear it over a skirt too — it's even sophisticated enough to wear to a wedding. Made with viscose, polyester and nylon, it's soft and drapey for a comfortable fit.
Being dressed comfortably doesn't have to mean looking lazy or slovenly. Case in point? This smart maxi with a bit of structure that be styled up or down. Its pockets lie flat (read: no added bulk), and it cinches you in at the waist to show off your figure without suffocating you. Wear it now on its own, then throw on the above cardigan coat or a denim jacket once the temps dip.
Senior Style Writer Rebecca Carhart observed during a trip to Nantucket that the moneyed ladies of ACK are rocking tiered poplin maxi skirts just like this one this summer. Super cute and perfect for staying cool, the breezy design and breathable fabric keep the air flowing, so they won't stick to you like cling wrap — even on the hottest days. Wear your white maxi with a tank during still-balmy afternoons, then pair with a snuggly sweater once the season begins to change.
Stretchy and versatile, these jeans will look fabulous with canvas sneakers and a white tee, and just as stylin' with a sweater and a tall boot. Some 2,400 five-star reviewers are into them, and they're available in 17 washes.
"The high waist is super flattering, and the stretchy denim is so comfortable," wrote one convert. "I love the wide-leg style — it's loose but still looks stylish and put-together. Plus, the pockets are actually deep enough to be useful!"
This majorly cute maxi is one of those easy-breezy dresses you can throw on with just about anything. Made of super soft, comfy rayon and spandex, it features a V-neckline and (in a welcome touch) has pockets too. To give it a slightly sexier vibe, it has side slits, but they're not so high you'll be tugging to avoid flashing your thighs to the world. Style it with sandals and a floppy hat for a boho boardwalk look, or zhuzh it up with heels and a jean jacket for a flirty fall date-night 'fit.
Ballet flats are making a major comeback, and it's easy to see why — they pair well with just about anything, including swishy sundresses and more substantial autumnal outfits. Over 50,000 Amazon shoppers have given these cute kicks a five-star rating. They're made from soft faux-leather and come in a delightful variety of 20 styles in sizes 5 to 15 (with wide options too!).
"These ballet flats couldn't be better for the price. They are so comfortable with a nice amount of padding, and super cute! I sized up a half a size and they fit perfectly. I now own them in two colors and will probably get more," gushed one fan.
You can't not saunter in this chic sweater look. You'll wear it for brunch, for business and even to the martini bar — thanks to its lightweight knit construction, it's equally great for both summer and fall nights.
"The fit of the skirt is perfect for me," wrote a fan who shared several pics. "It is stretchy and hugs in the right places without being too tight. I love the slit in the side that gives a nice shape to relieve the boxyness of the outfit. The top is more of a box cut and loose, which isn't my normal preference. However, when tucked into the skirt, it looks much nicer."
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The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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