Here's What to Wear in 20-Degree Weather If You're Stuck for Ideas

"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 last days 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

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(Image credit: @monikh)

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.

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2. Denim Shirt + Denim Skirt + Loafers 

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(Image credit: @eniswardrobe)

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.

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3. Loose Blazer + High-Waisted Trousers + Trainers

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(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

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. 

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4. Chore Jacket + White Tee + White Jeans

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(Image credit: @alexisforeman)

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. 

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5. Linen Shirt + Tank + Midi Skirt

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

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.

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6. Ribbed Dress + Retro Trainers

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(Image credit: @styleidealist)

Style Notes: Not sure how to wear dresses in this in-between weather? Switch to a lightly knitted iteration for extra warmth and team it with your usual summer accessories. Et voilà, an easy transitional look.

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This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Next Up, Experts Agree: These Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends Really Count

Fashion Editor

Remy Farrell is a London-based shopping editor with nearly 10 years of editorial experience covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle. After graduating with a journalism degree and working on the editorial and fashion teams for titles such as Grazia, Elle, Cosmopolitan and British Vogue, she moved into the luxury e-commerce sector, working as fashion assistant at TheOutnet.com styling for the social media channels and helping to develop the collections for the in-house brand Iris & Ink. After expanding an assisting and styling portfolio that includes shooting talent such as Gigi Hadid, Victoria Beckham and Miquita Oliver, she also branched out into beauty, creating tried-and-tested reviews and diverse beauty content.

In her role as shopping editor at Who What Wear, Remy is interested in discovering new and exciting brands to share with the Who What Wear readership and particularly loves uncovering hidden gems at affordable prices to make shopping accessible to everyone.

Born and raised in Sheffield, Yorkshire, Remy moved to London in 2014 and lives in the Docklands with her partner and pug Billie.