September

by Annie Mazzola

Friends of Persona, how are you? Welcome back to this corner for chats and tips that you might think is a style guide written by an industry professional, when in reality it’s simply the stream of consciousness of a friend at home just like you. A friend who gets out of bed every day and, after the proper wake-up & skincare routine, stands in front of motionless coat hangers asking herself the exact same question: “What shall I wear?”, followed by the equally redundant “I have nothing to wear”.

I wish I could see your faces right now, because I know that (almost) all of us are living the exact same life. The problem—as I realized after years of wrong looks and wild decluttering—is not "not knowing what to wear", but "not knowing how to style it". And although they might sound like two very similar concepts, you’ll soon see that isn’t the case.

I mentioned the word "decluttering", but let’s focus on its first cousin: the fateful "wardrobe switch-over". In my opinion, it’s a slightly extreme concept that seems to want to draw a sharp line between the warmer and colder seasons, when in fact you can mix heaps of items, letting go of the idea that they must be relegated to only a certain time of year.

Besides, let's be honest, does it really feel like the right time to abandon lightweight dresses and skirts already? Or that much-loved oversized shirt that accompanied you everywhere this summer? I’d say no, so we need a plan, and the plan is very simple: gently transition away from lightweight pieces before delving fully into the autumn season.

That oversized shirt, for instance, can be worn over a T-shirt, or you can tie it around your waist—because even if it’s still warm (though not quite time to bring out the cardigan yet), you never know if a chilly breeze might blow in later on...

Don't want to leave that beautiful crochet vest top tucked away in a drawer, but the nude look in the city is definitely too much? Layer it over a T-shirt, perhaps in contrasting colours, to keep that peek-a-boo effect (while keeping it public-transport-proof)

And what about that midi skirt that saved a thousand of your outfits? Try it with loafers, or trainers, or later on with combat boots—you're going to love it.

Ah, and wait! That oversized dress, the one you’ve practically worn to death and just can’t bear to let go of—do this: either wear it over a T-shirt underneath—but make sure it has a slim fit, otherwise a frumpy effect is guaranteed—or layer an oversized denim shirt over it with a belt at the waist to highlight your silhouette, while still giving you a super comfy look.