9 Genius Ways to Transition Summer Clothes to Fall You’ll Want to Start Now
Updated: Mar. 16, 2022As the weather cools down, don't rush to put your summer favorites into storage.
Switch from flimsy cardigan to tailored blazer
A cardigan is probably your go-to for staying warm in the AC in a sundress, but a dark blazer is an unexpected autumn-appropriate twist. Throw one over a lacy tank for an outfit you can wear straight to the office.
Maximize your maxi wear
Even though they cover your legs, shoulder-bearing maxi dresses can be surprisingly tough to wear in chilly temps. A cardigan can look frumpy, and blazers usually don’t look quite right. Instead, dig out a leather jacket for a layering element that fits the season. A leather jacket—and these other tips—will make your outfit look expensive too.
Show whites some love
Whoever says white doesn’t belong after Labor Day is seriously missing out. Make a crisp white skirt or slacks fit the fall season by pairing with autumnal colors like khaki and burgundy. Read these tricks for caring for white clothes.
Modify your makeup
Transition your summer look by picking beauty products that look more fitting for fall. Swap out pastel nails for earth-toned ones, and light pink gloss for a deep creamy lipstick to keep you from looking season-confused. This is what your nail polish color choice says about your personality.
Keep your beach bag on hand
You don’t have to limit your favorite beach tote to sunbathing days. As long as the bag is neutral enough that its design doesn’t scream “summer,” (no anchors or crabs, please!) you can still use it as an everyday carryall. These are the classic handbag types every woman should own.
Swap your shoes
Even when it’s warm enough for bare legs, your toes could feel icy as the temperatures drop. Pack away your sandals and replace them with closed-toe booties, pumps, or loafers.
Wrap around a scarf
For a simple way to keep warm-weather clothes, well, warm, throw a scarf over your favorite summer tops when fall hits. Don’t be afraid to mix prints either—stripes and florals can be surprisingly neutral additions to your outfit. Here’s how picking the right pattern and more can help your outfit make you look thinner.
Tone down brights
A bright skirt can transition into fall if you pick the right shirt. Top it off with a dark gray T-shirt and black tights, or choose a chunky sweater to add interesting texture to your look. Just be careful of pilling and these other messy outfit mistakes.
