11 Best Pieces to Transition Your Wardrobe from Summer to Fall
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As the season changes from summer to fall, our wardrobes should adapt as well. Although it’s not quite cold enough to bring out wool coats, knit sweaters, or knee-high boots, our breezy summer wardrobes are too warm for the changing weather. Adding a few essential pieces to your capsule wardrobe is the perfect way to dress during the in-between seasons and shift your closet from one season to another. In this post, I’m sharing eleven must-have pieces to help you stylishly adapt your wardrobe from summer to fall.
These summer-to-fall transitional wardrobe must-haves can be worn year-round but will be especially useful when the weather is variable. They’re versatile and can serve as timeless capsule wardrobe basics. In fact, you probably already have some of these pieces in your closet.
You can create several different outfits just by using these transitional essentials, but they’re also easy to pair with pieces from your summer wardrobe. For example, ankle boots can be worn with long-sleeve sundresses and a leather jacket on a warmer fall day or with your favorite jeans and a cashmere sweater on a cooler day. Wear a knit tank with a slip skirt and strappy sandals or pair it with jeans, a trench coat and sneakers or boots. The options are endless with these 11 summer-to-fall wardrobe essentials.
1. Blazers
Stocking your closet with a variety of outwear will help you get dressed more easily as the weather becomes cooler. A classic blazer is one piece that you’ll definitely want to add to your summer-to-fall wardrobe. It’s the perfect layering piece to stay warm as the cooler weather slowly arrives. Wear it over a lightweight sweater on an early fall day or a basic cotton tank when the weather is warm. Whether it’s a mini skirt or wool trousers, a blazer can be styled with almost any type of bottom. You can find blazers in a range of colors and textures at almost any budget. If you want to get the most wear out of your wardrobe, opt for a classic cut in black, beige or another neutral color.
2. Trench Coats
A timeless trench coat is the ultimate outerwear piece for the in-between season and early autumn weather. Wear it over your summer outfits to add extra warmth without the bulkiness of a wool coat, or style it with your favorite fall looks. My go-to casual look for warmer fall days is a trench coat worn over a comfortable tee and a pair of loafers or sneakers.
Although I always opt for a timeless style, you can also find cropped, belted and patterned trench coats. Choose a version that reflects your own personal style. Consider also the tone of your trench coat. Some trenches are warmer, more camel-colored and others are cooler, more gray-toned. Consider your most-worn pieces and choose a color that works best with your own wardrobe. This coat will also serve you well during the spring months too.
3. Denim Jackets
A classic denim jacket is a staple that effortlessly bridges the gap between seasons. Throw it over your sundresses or pair it with a t-shirt and trousers for an effortlessly chic look. Opt for a medium-wash denim as it complements a wide array of outfits, providing that perfect balance between casual and put-together. The denim jacket effortlessly adds an edge to your look while keeping you snug during unpredictable weather transitions.
4. Lightweight Sweaters
As the temperature starts to drop, lightweight sweaters become your best friends for that extra layer of warmth and style. Opt for sweaters in neutral tones or rich, earthy colors like rust, olive, or mustard. These versatile pieces can be layered over your favorite summer tank tops or dresses, adding a touch of comfort and chic elegance to your ensemble. Look for breathable fabrics such as cotton blends or lightweight knits to ensure you stay cozy without overheating during those in-between days.
5. Knit Tanks
Sweater weather is not quite here yet, but you can still wear weather-appropriate knitwear. A knit tank is a classic option for your summer-to-fall wardrobe. I love knit tanks during this time of the year, because they are perfect to wear when it’s warm and work as layering pieces when it gets cooler. Any lightweight knit pieces are great for transitioning your wardrobe.
You can style knit tanks with almost any outfit, but I love wearing mine with wide-leg trousers and strappy sandals in the summer and a blazer, straight-leg jeans and loafers during the fall. Any outfit featuring a cotton ribbed tank is the perfect occasion to swap in a knit version instead. You can find knit tanks in a variety of styles, but any neutral-colored option is always my go-to.
6. Layering Tops
To master the art of layering, stock up on essential layering tops that can effortlessly transition your summer pieces into fall. These lightweight tops can be worn under sweaters, cardigans, or jackets, providing extra warmth without adding bulk. Opt for neutral tones like white, black, or gray, ensuring they seamlessly blend with your existing wardrobe. These layering tops serve as building blocks for creating chic and comfortable layered looks that are perfect for the ever-changing fall weather.
You can also extend the life of your favorite sleeveless summer dresses by layering them with short-sleeve t-shirts underneath. I’m obsessed with this dress and t-shirt combo and this preppier, work-ready ensemble.
7. Dark-Wash Jeans
A quality pair of dark-wash jeans that fit you well is one wardrobe basic we all need in our closets, but they are particularly practical to have during the pre-fall season. Try them with an oversized blazer, t-shirt, sneakers and a baseball cap for a sportier look, or wear them with a colorful wrap top, strappy heels and a clutch for a flirty night-out ensemble.
While cropped styles are perfect for the summer, I prefer a longer pair of jeans during the in-between months in order to start transitioning my closet for cooler days ahead. Choose a style that matches your own preferences and will serve you later during the fall months. A classic pair of blue jeans will always be a wardrobe staple, but you can also add a pair in black, gray, or any darker color.
8. Mini Skirts
Swap out your lightweight skirts for a wool-blend, denim or leather mini skirt in your summer-to-fall closet. This chic style staple is ideal for fall, but it’s also an easy way to add some weight to your transitional outfits since twill is thicker and heavier than other weaves. Pair it with a basics t-shirt and loafers now and a turtleneck, ankle boots and tights when the weather becomes cooler.
When choosing the most fall-ready option, look for skirts with darker and/or more neutral colors like black, camel, brown and maroon. Stick with a solid color or try a seasonal print like plaid or houndstooth. A tweed skirt is also one of my favorite pieces to wear during the fall.
9. Leather Shoulder Bags
If you’re looking to carry a new purse this fall, a sophisticated leather shoulder bag is an easy choice for the in-between season. It’s perfect for toting around all of your items without being too bulky like our favorite beach totes and basket bags. Plus, you can style it with almost any summer or fall outfit for an effortless, elegant touch.
You can find a variety of shoulder bag styles. Choose a classic option like a smooth leather bag in black or a trendier version with bolder details like crocodile embossed leathers, glossy finishes and studded bag straps. A brightly colored shoulder bag is another variation that will easily liven up your neutral fall pieces.
10. Ankle Boots
Hold off on the knee-high boots, and instead try a shorter ankle boot during the early fall months. They are an incredibly comfortable and functional shoe, which makes them one of my ultimate wardrobe essentials. Style them with your favorite jeans and sweater combination for any effortless fall look. Add on a blazer or wool coat and thick socks for extra warmth.
You can sport a classic version in black leather or opt for a pair in colors like beige, cream or white and made of materials like suede or even rubber. Heeled and lace-up boots are also fun variations to experiment with. I personally love these classic black boots styled with an oversized blazer, a ribbed sweater and a pair of straight-leg jeans.
11. Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are the epitome of comfort and style, making them a perfect choice for transitioning from summer to fall. Their understated elegance and versatility lend themselves well to a variety of outfits. Whether you're running errands or heading to a casual gathering, ballet flats can seamlessly tie your look together. Pair them with cropped jeans, a light sweater, and a scarf for a chic and cozy ensemble that's perfect for those mild fall days.
If ballerinas aren’t your style, try a pair of loafers. You can wear them during the early months of autumn and even during the winter months with pants or tights.
As the seasons shift, your wardrobe should follow suit, seamlessly blending the best of both summer and fall. Incorporating these 11 essential pieces will help you navigate the transitional period with confidence and style. From lightweight sweaters for layering to classic denim jackets and ankle boots, these items offer the perfect balance between comfort and fashion. As you curate your fall wardrobe, remember to mix and match these pieces creatively to create outfits that embrace the changing leaves and capture the essence of the new season.
How do you prepare your closet for fall? What are your favorite summer-to-fall pieces? Let me know in the comments below.
