Transitional Weather Wardrobe Basics Under $50

Transitional weather can be a scary thing, mainly because it’s impossible to nail down specific looks when the weather is constantly changing. Just these past couple of weeks were filled with confusion in the Midwest. I recently spent a suspiciously gorgeous day running errands in the warmth of a thick, chunky cardigan, but it was quickly followed by several days of snow.

I do my best to adapt my wardrobe during this uncertain period of time by relying on a handful of layering-friendly staples. Below are five of my go-to styles and some of the pieces that I often pair them with. Even better, they’re all under $50.

The Best Transitional Closet Staples Under $50

Matching Sets

I’ve learned to embrace the easygoing charm of a dependable and stylish matching set. When in doubt, you’ve already picked out most of your outfit. You can certainly change up the vibe of your look by relying on your accessories and outerwear. Plus, you can split them up and style them into an endless range of ensembles. To look polished while still feeling comfy, I like to pair it with a structured blazer sweater and fun sneakers—I’ve gotten many compliments from this casual-cool combo.

Sampeel Wide-Leg Pants and Mock Neck Top Set

Loft Relaxed Sweater Blazer

Universal Thread Spencer Sneakers

Utility Jacket

This time of year, I’ve learned to lean into my outerwear collection to do some heavy lifting when the majority of my outfit is essentially covered up. Frankly, I’ve never had this many jackets and coats in my closet before, but Gap’s Canvas Utility Jacket has gotten a lot of wear. Although it’s kept me nice and toasty, it’s still lightweight and is one of my favorite pieces to style with more feminine attire to balance it out. I love to team it with a dress or midi sweater skirt.

Gap Canvas Utility Jacket

A New Day Midi Boucle Sweater Skirt

Abercrombie & Fitch Long-Sleeve Belted Shirt Dress

Loafers

Never underestimate the power of a sleek loafer. When I’m tempted to reach for my flats but faced with a mean winter chill, I slip into these loafers. Aside from feeling instantly put together, there’s hardly an outfit that they don’t work with. I usually toss it together with a tailored sweater and trousers for a preppy look, and if I’m feeling a bit more casual, they still look chic with jeans and a tee.

Sam Edelman Christy Loafer

Zara Soft Feel Ribbed Cardigan

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trousers

Polo Sweater

I’ve long learned to embrace the flexibility of a relaxed sweater, but with the addition of a collar, it suddenly becomes elevated. Even if I’m wearing sweatpants with them, polo sweaters are a posh top option I’ll always choose over any other. I love how it looks layered underneath a fitted vest or tucked into a mini skirt with opaque tights. And because it’s so airy, you’ll definitely find some use for it come spring.

J.Crew Factory Cotton Sweater-Polo

Gap Cropped Vest

Spanx Stretch Twill Mini Skirt

Straight-Leg Jeans

I love how I can blindly go into my closet and pick up straight-leg jeans that feel like the perfect blank canvas. Because of the slim cut of this style, my petite shape isn’t concealed or overwhelmed, but the straight cut still feels far more relaxed than a skinny jean. I’m always on the move, and the 2 percent spandex in these jeans gives it a comfortable stretch that I depend on. There’s really no wrong outfit combo here, but I typically find myself donning ankle booties and a boxy shacket.

Maurices Everflex Seamed Slim Straight Jean

Mysoft Slip-On Ankle Boots

Nine West Cozy Button-Front Jacket