Around late September/early October in the Texas heat, I have been known to dig my beanies out from the corners of my closet the moment it drops below 80 degrees, eagerly proclaiming it to be “beanie season.” As summer gives way to fall, it’s natural that fashion follows suit—a celebration of sweater weather at last.
Before the excitement of cooler weather leads you to pack up your summer wardrobe, consider hanging on to some of those pieces a little longer. While shopping new fall trends can be fun, your favorite warm weather classics have potential to effortlessly transition into fall favorites with a little reworking of traditional pairings.
Button-Down Tops
Lately, I have had a particular liking for patterned, more funky versions of this silhouette but a classic white button down is a fool proof option. The women in my family often joke that, although we live across the country, when we get together, we all happen to be wearing some form of the same thing—usually a classic, white button-down styled to our taste.
While wearing your shirt unbuttoned is perfect for throwing on over your swimsuit or cutoffs in the summer, to transition into fall, button it up, pair it with your favorite denim and layer with a lightweight jacket or a thin turtleneck. Play with rolling the sleeves, tucking in one side or wearing a size up for a more relaxed fit.
To transition into fall, button it up, pair it with your favorite denim and layer with a lightweight jacket or a thin turtleneck.
Overalls
With their many silhouettes and washes, overalls have made a recent resurgence into fashion. No matter your overall style, sweaters layered underneath or cardigans overtop are a sure way to bridge the style gap between summer and fall.
Play off the color of your overalls. If they’re a darker wash, go lighter with your knitwear. Do the opposite with white or light overalls. Pair your outfit with loafers or Chelsea boots rather than sneakers or sandals.
Dresses and Skirts
Often, summer dresses are the first things to go as the weather changes. When you’re stumped with what to wear this fall, remember this formula: Summer dress, outerwear and boots.
When you’re stumped with what to wear this fall, remember this formula: Summer dress, outerwear and boots.
Adding a jacket, blazer or sweater will make even your most summery of dresses into a chic transition outfit. Since the textures of the clothing are likely pretty different, coordinate the colors for a cohesive or even monochromatic look. A belt can add definition to your waist and swapping out boots for sneakers will dress the look down.
Bright Colors
Take a minute to look through your closet or think of your typical fall wardrobe. Which colors take center stage? For most of us, it’s a mirage of tan and brown—grounded neutrals and cozy knits. While neutrals are a great base for fall style, incorporating color adds visual interest.
This can be done as bold as funky pants or with the subtlety of bright nail polish. Breaking down personal style habits will make you feel like you’ve been given a whole new wardrobe.
What are some staple items in your closet that transition well from one season to the next? What’s your favorite item to wear in the fall?
Image via Marlow Amick
