“What’s your perfect date?” “I’d have to say April 25. Because it’s not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket.” Okay, I’m probably showing my age in the fact I’m able to recite the Miss Congeniality script from memory, but this quote has always stuck with me and got me to thinking, what do you wear when it’s not too hot, not too cold (light jackets being the exception)?
This feels like an important question to ask this week, as my weather app tells me it’s going to be one of those weeks when the weather is that in-between stage, a little bit of sun, a little bit of cloud. How appropriate for the start of summer. Granted, the app isn’t always the most reliable, but it can be a difficult climate to dress for, which is why it’s important to work out what to wear. Do you take a jacket with you? Can you brave wearing sandals? But then again, when the weather is slightly cooler, is it time to revert to boots and knitwear? Throw in the omnipresent threat of rain, and you’ve got yourself a game of sweat or water.
As you can see, this gives us plenty of style questions to answer, which is why we decided to go hunt down some of the best not-cold-but-not-hot outfit ideas. As a result, we’ve found six perfect looks that will carry you through those strange between-season days when you’re not quite sure what’s going to happen with the weather. From jackets to jeans and chunky sandals, keep scrolling for outfit ideas to last you a full week for when it’s 20°C outside.
1. Sweatshirt + Baggy Jeans + Clogs
Style Notes: The secret to making this outfit as versatile as possible is wearing a thin layer under the sweatshirt so you’ll be able to cool off once you take it off. In addition, the jeans will provide a shield against any chilly breeze, and closed-toe Birks will ease you into boot season.
Shop the Look:
ARKET
Soft French Terry Sweatshirt
£47
Simplicity is key to a great sweatshirt.
H&M
Baggy Regular Jeans
£25
Baggy jeans are an SS24 must-have.
DRAGON DIFFUSION
Burgundy Large Leather Woven Santa Croce Tote Bag
£380
Isn’t this the most gorgeous finish?
BIRKENSTOCK
Boston Tobacco Oiled Leather Clogs
£130
Yes we’re loving sandal season, but when it’s chilly, Birkenstocks can be repurposed for the in-between weather—I like to switch out black hues for beige or brown.
2. Denim Shirt + Denim Skirt + Loafers
Style Notes: Oh, how we love this outfit. It ticks off all the trends that will last for years. Denim, more denim, and a pair of chic loafers? Perfect. Comfy enough to wear without a coat while it’s mild, and add a trench coat if it’s still cold out.
Shop the Look:
WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH
The Classic: Denim
£130
I have a thing for blue denim shirts.
MONKI
Midi Denim Skirt
£40
Denim skirts are currently a huge hit with the Who What Wear team.
JIMMY CHOO
Diamond Tilda Loafer
£695
I cannot express just how much I love these loafers.
3. Loose Blazer + High-Waisted Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: An oversized blazer is always a good choice. Pair with loose, high-waisted trousers and a light tee, and you’ll feel cool and look chic.
Shop the Look:
H&M
Double-Breasted Blazer
£43
A premium option from H&M.
ARKET
Crew-Neck T-shirt
£17
The only T-shirt our Affiliate Editor will wear.
COS
Tapered Elasticated Wool Trousers
£115
A good pair of black trousers is a gamechanger.
VEJA
Campo Leather Sneakers
£140
Fashion’s reigning favourite trainers.
4. Chore Jacket + White Tee + White Jeans
Style Notes: Just because it’s a little gloomy outside doesn’t mean you have to go for more wintry colours. Opt for ecru and white shades for a fresh, clean vibe that looks ludicrously expensive.
Shop the Look:
FRAME
Heart Denim Jacket
£400
The ultimate transitional cover-up.
TOTEME
Straight Cotton Tee Off-White
£140
The best white tees have a relaxed, slouch fit.
MOTHER
High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
£224
White denim always makes a comeback for summer.
5. Linen Shirt + Tank + Midi Skirt
Style Notes: A linen shirt is ideal for this kind of weather. Wear it tucked into jeans, over dresses or worn open over a basic tank for a laid-back outfit you’ll feel great in.
Shop the Look:
UNIQLO
100% Premium Linen Shirt
£40
All of my colleagues rave about high-street linen for its cost per wear.
ZARA
Voluminous Midi Skirt
£36
This skirt is beyond chic.
& OTHER STORIES
Woven Leather Slides
£95
You can’t go wrong with black leather slides.
6. Textured Dress + Retro Trainers
Style Notes: Not sure how to wear dresses in this in-between weather? Switch to a light long-sleeved version for extra warmth and team it with your usual summer accessories. Et voilà, an easy transitional look.
Shop the Look:
MONKI
Long Sleeved Textured Dress
£35
Fashion editors agree, textured dresses are a cornerstone of every chic wardrobe.
HEIDI KLEIN
Savanna Bay Mini Raffia Bucket Bag
£346
The bamboo handle makes this woven bag feel so unique.
NIKE
Air Max 1 Suede, Leather and Mesh Sneakers
£149
Practical and stylish. What’s not to like?
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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