What does the word transition mean to you? In the dictionary it’s described as something that undergoes a change and passes from one state, stage, form, or activity to another. That would be a great way to describe how transitional clothing pieces can help you step up your fall fashion without a lot of fuss. Our online cover look is composed of a colorful assortment of separates that will make that all-important “transition” into fall and then bounce back for more appearances next spring. When it comes to accessible fashion trends, layering is the name of the game. This season the jewel-toned colors of the spectrum become richer, stronger, and more adaptable than ever before. Color blocking can be easy if you can allow your eye to see things that “go together” rather than “match.”

I chose on trend shades of blue, green and rust to coordinate the look on our online magazine cover. When you’re out shopping at Goodwill you should always take into consideration how a particular piece of clothing will integrate into the wardrobe you already have. If you haven’t cleared out all the ill fitting and questionable clothing from your wardrobe, as detailed in last week’s posting, now is the time to do it!

Look for jackets with subtle textures like cotton, corduroy or denim. These versatile fabrics are on the light side, yet can add warmth when layered over other items. Make sure the fit of your jacket is right by checking the seam where the sleeve meets the shoulder. It should extend just slightly beyond the rounding of your shoulder. If it’s too tight it will be hard to layer, if too loose it could look sloppy. The goal with fall transitional fashion is to look chic and polished, yet comfortable.

Look for long sleeved plain color tee shirts in a variety of colors. These will work hard for you all year round. Alone, or layered under jackets, sweaters, blazers, dresses, you just can’t go wrong with basic pieces like this. Find a sleeve style and neckline that flatters you and then build a collection that you will find indispensable when it comes to the all-important layered looks of fashion.

Look for figure flattering skinny jeans in colorful hues. Believe it or not, everyone can wear some version of this popular trend. The higher cut waistlines make it easy to layer other items over it and seem a lot more polished than their lower rise counterparts. Finding a pair or two, or three that have a little stretch as well, will guarantee a great fit each and every time you wear them. These jeans can become a workhorse for your wardrobe. Paired with a tailored jacket or casual coat, they can be dressed up or down, and will go through all the seasons of the year stylishly.

Another transitional item that you must have in your fashion arsenal is a scarf or two. On our cover look, I chose a Ralph Lauren burn out silk in shades of navy blue with a floral pattern. This adds a feminine flair to the more basic pieces of jacket, jeans and tee shirt, and in addition can be worn with other items you may already have. Look for stripes, colorful solids, fun patterns, and especially the popular floral motif while you’re out shopping for ways to pull your look together.

Who says looking great and feeling great about yourself has to be expensive? Goodwill is always THE place to look for items to help you transition your fashions from season to season, as well as help those in need transition into education and employment. There is absolutely nothing more fashionable than that!