How to Transition your Wardrobe from Summer to Fall

As we move from the blistering hot days of summer to the breezier, chiller evenings of fall, one thing I’ve noticed is that it can be difficult to know what to wear in these in-between times. When it’s 80 degrees at lunchtime and below 50 by dinner, it can be challenging to pick out an outfit that can last through a full day and evening.

So today I wanted to take the time to talk about pieces that can be added or removed throughout an autumnal heat wave or a cooler Labor Day weekend. You can keep your vintage fashion look while staying comfortable and feeling good in your late summer or early fall fashion.

Fabric Choices for Late Summer and Early Fall

Some of us can’t wait for pumpkin spiced lattes and warm mugs of soup. Long, hot summer days are fun while they last, but as the sun begins to set earlier and the leaves begin to yellow, we can see autumn on the horizon.

Early fall days still offer their share of hot pavement and thirsty afternoons. That’s why cotton is the perfect fabric selection for this time of year. Cotton allows air to flow through your garments, bringing much needed dryness when perspiration strikes. Yet cotton is not so lightweight that it will keep you freezing in the event of a sudden rainstorm or gusty breeze.

What about your three-quarter length cotton blouse with puff sleeves? Your arms won’t be too cold or too hot, and you’ll be protected from direct sunlight. Or consider bringing that light cardigan along with you in case a cold front blows in before tea time. You can also wear it unbuttoned if you find layering puts you at just the right temperature, or you can fold your cardigan and carry it over one arm if it gets too warm.

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Selecting Layered Pieces

One successful trick I’ve learned for those warm October days is to layer my sweater over a skirt. That way, my arms are warm and my legs are cool, making the entire ensemble work well for an unpredictable season.

I also recommend grabbing a neck scarf to tie on for the frosty mornings. This scarf can be removed as the day warms up, and it will be perfect to don once again for the chilly bus ride home from work.

If you’ve got some casual driving gloves, these can also add a unique style to your outfit while keeping your fingers warm as you step out before dawn. If your location follows daylight saving time, you’ll find yourself starting the day in gloomy darkness.

See if you can break out your fall purse styles while still pairing them with peep toe shoes. This way you can still show off your fall pedicure while stashing your gloves away as the sunlight fills the streets and the morning shadows clear out at lunchtime. Late summer or early fall fashion can be tricky, but layers can keep you comfortable all day long.

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Let Colors Flow

As summer days transition to fall, it’s time to bring out your darker pieces and start putting away your peppy florals. Still, you can continue to match light chambray dresses with darker earrings and shoes. You may even want to bring out a plaid scarf with your lighter colored blouse and pencil skirt.

Remember that the transition from summer to fall can be gradual, and you don’t need to break out your Oxfords as soon as Labor Day weekend ends. Take practical note of the weather for each day and be sure you come prepared with an umbrella if the forecast calls for rain. A light trench coat can also be worn if you expect wind or afternoon showers. Just keep in mind that deeper olive and wine colored accessories do a lot of work towards moving your wardrobe into fall.

Late Summer to Early Fall Fashion: Hairstyles

 

This will reduce the chances of discomfort from sweat at your temples and the nape of your neck. However, if your day looks to be cloudy or semi cool, consider a half-up/half-down style. Check out my hair tutorial to learn how to do do this style.

Also, if you have curly hair, always consider the moisture quotient in the day’s forecast. Many of us need to plan ahead to make sure that surprise humidity or snow showers don’t mess with our ‘do.

Have Fun with Seasonal Transitions

The time between late summer and early fall is full of excitement for cooler days, cheaper electric bills, and sweater weather. At the same time, the Northern Hemisphere doesn’t just flip a switch in September that says it’s time for boots and wool suiting.

This liminal time of seasonal transition can bring reflection about the memories we made over the summer and the excitement of what we’re hoping to experience in autumn. Thankfully, being in-between seasons doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our fashion goals just because the weather is unpredictable.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the best ways to maximize your wardrobe and transition into fall while keeping your style in check. Let me know if you have any other ideas! I’d love to hear what they are.