The season’s a tricky one: you have to ditch your shorts and summer tees because that’s done and dusted, but it is not exactly wintery enough to don the chillier segment of your wardrobe. So, what do you do, when you need to strike the right balance between comfort and casual style?

Longline jackets are the best bet this time of the year. They are easy breezy, available in a variety of textiles, depending on how heavy or light you want it to be. For cooler days, don a knitted option for that added snugness. Other days, opt for cotton or linen blend options in darker shades of blues, greens and ochres for the right kind of contrast with your first layers.

Stick to colour blocked styling because you don’t want it to look too busy as an outfit. A simple T-shirt and trousers with a pair of slip ons or espadrilles (even casual lace ups will work just fine) would be the ideal look.

The most important factor to keep in mind while styling with layers and longline is the length of the layers. Make sure your inner layer is shorter than the outer. Your trousers should ideally be ankle-length and should not be collecting above the shoes. Keep it clean, slim and sharp. A single fold works fine too. While wearing knits, play with textures and patterns to help accentuate the pieces.

Ideally, avoid bright or shocking shades of colours. Muted and understated is the most stylish way to be.    

Styled by ETA, available exclusively at Westside.