HERE are a few easy pieces to help maximize your wardrobe’s transitional potential:

Chunky-knit sweaters, especially sleeveless ones. Wear them with a jacket on cold mornings; you can always shed layers when the sun comes out in the afternoon.

A pretty ruffled top. Choose the super-trendy tie-neck blouses, or a lovely peasant-inspired shirt.

Leather jackets, skirts and pants. Especially in nude or other unusual colors.

Stretch T-shirts. This includes solids and multi-patterned ones with interesting beading.

Crochet pieces. A skimpy tank top can be worn now for evening, and on weekends when the weather gets steamy.

Sling-back shoes with low Louis heels. “You can wear them for day or evening,” says Ruttenstein, who calls the style “the shoe of the moment.”

A trench coat. Especially in an unusual fabric, such as denim.