There is always that awkward stretch when I’m mentally ready for fall fashion, but the weather is most definitely NOT cooperating. I love sweaters and boots as much as the next person, but I’m not about to sweat through an outfit just because the calendar says fall is coming! Instead, I like to ease into the season with late summer to fall outfits that work with the weather we actually have. Lightweight fabrics still make sense, but subtle changes in color, texture, layers, and accessories can make an outfit feel more autumnal.
These four looks are also proof that transitional style doesn’t have to mean basic. Romantic details like lace, embroidery, stripes, bows, and pretty sleeves add interest while darker denim, rich accessories, and earthy colors help bridge the gap between seasons.
1. Layer a Cardigan Over a Summer Dress
A lightweight dress is one of the last things I’m ready to give up when summer winds down. This pale blue embroidered dress still feels summery, but adding a navy cardigan over my shoulders gives it an instant transitional feel. Cognac and taupe accessories add a little warmth and help carry the look toward fall.
Make It Your Own: Don’t pack away your summer dresses yet! Add a cardigan and swap bright accessories for cognac, chocolate brown, navy, or taupe.
Dress | Cardigan | Heels | Bag
2. Pair Summer Whites With Earthy Fall Colors
Your white and cream pieces don’t need to disappear after Labor Day! I paired this romantic lace blouse with sage green pants and brown Mary Janes. The earthy shades and richer textures make the lightweight blouse feel more seasonal without adding any extra warmth.
Make It Your Own: Pair a white or cream summer blouse with olive, camel, chocolate, burgundy, or another earthy shade for an easy fall transition.
Top | Pants | Shoes
3. Keep Wearing White Jeans Into Fall
I’m firmly on team white jeans after Labor Day! Here, the white denim keeps things light for warm weather while the long-sleeve striped peplum blouse introduces a muted green that feels more like fall. And the pink Mary Janes? Just a fun little pop of color because transitional outfits don’t have to turn dark overnight!
Make It Your Own: Keep your white jeans in rotation and pair them with muted green, burgundy, brown, navy, or other early-fall shades.
Blouse | White denim | Heels | Necklace
4. Use Rich Accessories to Create a Fall Feel
This is the most fall-forward of my four late summer to fall outfits, and the accessories do much of the work. Dark flare jeans, burgundy pumps, and a structured handbag give this pink striped tie-neck blouse a richer, more autumnal feel without adding heavy layers.
Make It Your Own: Pair a lightweight blouse with dark denim, then add burgundy, chocolate, cognac, or deep green accessories for an instant fall update.
Blouse | Jeans | Heels | Bag
Easy Ways to Transition Your Summer Wardrobe Into Fall
You don’t need to overhaul your closet the minute September arrives. Some of my favorite late summer to fall outfits actually combine pieces from both seasons.
Start with clothes that are comfortable for the current temperature and make one or two strategic changes. Add a cardigan over your shoulders. Trade a bright sandal for a Mary Jane or pump. Pair white with earthy shades. Reach for dark denim. Or simply swap your summer handbag for one in cognac, chocolate, or burgundy.
It’s those little details that help an outfit feel like fall without dressing for weather that hasn’t arrived yet.
And for me, that’s the sweet spot during this in-between season: romantic, interesting outfits that satisfy my craving for fall fashion while still keeping me comfortable. Because I’m ready for fall—but I’m definitely not ready to sweat for it!
Linkup
Last week’s favorite post was from Chandra at ny.ken.jee who shared lots of photos and a life update with tons gorgeous style and fun!
Between Naps on the Porch | I do de Claire | Walking in Memphis in High Heels & The Fashion Canvas | Tuesday Twirl | My Slices of Life | The Style Splash | Curated by Jennifer | Mummabstylish | Shelbee On the Edge | Nancy’s Fashion Style | Momfessionals | Marsha in the Middle
