Ah, autumn. When the calendar falls over to the month of October one's thoughts turn to those of golden amber leaves, crisp air scented with bonfires and the joy of reuniting with favorite sweaters. However if you live below the Mason-Dixon line it's probably still 80 degrees and mosquitoes haven't gotten the hint that they've overstayed their welcome.

This makes it hard to advise on fashion. Some seasons there are fabulous transitional pieces and other seasons there's a lot to be desired. Due to flooding in my basement I'm throwing this together at the last minute so I haven't looked too much into transitional styles but there's some winter stuff coming out that looks amazing but I'll get to it in due time.

Woman Within Wool Blend Duffle Coat: I live a stone's throw from the Minnesota border. Snow is going to be here sooner rather than later and I prefer to be prepared. The past two winters I've been here in the Midwest I've been using two peacoats I picked up from Target. They've held up well but as you might imagine they're not very hefty. I need something heftier and I'm thinking this frivolous pink coat is the answer. Add a few colorful hats and scarves and this could be great way to liven up the long Iowa winters.

Talbot's Cashmere Audrey Sweater: When I think of transitional pieces this sweater is what appears in my mind. Three quarter sleeves and a thinner knit make these perfect if it's 80 degrees outside but only 63 in your office. This comes in eight if not more colors, many of which are wearable year-round.

Target Universal Thread Skinny Bootcut jeans: These are my new favorite jeans and I own three pairs. They hold up very well and I like how they make me look. They are slightly distressed if you're not into that look. Like most other jeans I've come across, they do stretch out through the day. Seeing as they're less than $30 I think that's something I can live with.

Lands' End Elbow Length Ponte Knit Dress: Lands' End ponte knit products are some of the workhorses in my professional wardrobe. They're comfortable, flattering, easy to care for, and are professional enough for almost any office setting. I love elbow sleeves because I think they look better than 3/4 sleeves and the cap sleeves on many short sleeve shirts. This dress comes in several different patterns and in a tweed texture. It also comes in solid colors (autumn colors and classic neutrals).