Transitional Outerwear

Illustration by Andrew Mashanov 

This time of year is notorious for wonky weather. It can jump from 60 degrees at 8 A.M to a spike to the mid 80’s by lunchtime. This can make getting dressed challenging as you’ll need to wear something that will prevent you from freezing in the morning but doesn’t swallow you up by the afternoon. Lightweight outerwear can be your friend in these times. And to accompany that, you need to wear something underneath that can stand well on its own when it comes time to shed your chill blocker. I’d say a crisp polo is your best option. They look best worn untucked so be sure you get the length right (no more than 3 inches below the belt). The short sleeve allows a more streamlined look versus wearing a long sleeved button-down and rolling the sleeves (as you most certainly will want to do to when perspiration comes a calling).

American Apparel Varsity Jacket $88

This one’s the least expensive of the bunch and receives kudos for being American made (L.A. to be exact). I’ve tried this one on personally and I can say the fit and the feel are legit. A sans-letter/logo varsity jacket is a bit ironic I admit, but I totally dig it. And I’m forecasting that maroon will be the color of the season.

APC Denim Jacket $295

Everyone needs to own a denim jacket. They can be worn as outerwear, obviously, but can also be worn under a blazer or wool coat when the mercury drops to the 40’s. Just make sure its cut slim to avoid being confused with a cowboy.

Gant by Michael Bastian Zip Cardigan $395

This is made out of a borderline bulky lambswool so it’s the heaviest piece in this bunch. You can save this one for right before it sets into full winter. The football motif indicates you possess a confident sense of humor and the double zippers help bring it back to more serious territory.

Raf Simons/Ruby Sterling Bomber Jacket $680

 This piece came from a special one-time-only collaboration on a full collection from high fashion designer Raf Simons and famous painter, Sterling Ruby. This jacket in particular has a subdued feel with the blacked-out camo paired with rainbow stripes. It is something quite unique and I say if you’ve got the cash, go for it.

From L to R:

• Marc by Marc Jacobs $90
• Band of Outsiders $90
• Maison Kitsune $139

And about those perfect-for-noontime-heat polos- here are a few that I handpicked. Notice they’re all primarily solid with minute pops of contrast. That’s when I think they’re at their best.



Edited by Felicity Rhode