It’s that time of year again! The days are getting shorter, the leaves are becoming vibrant … and a lot of us have no idea what to wear.
We know that the transition from summer to fall can be tough to navigate. Days can still be scorching hot (especially here in Arizona), but chilly mornings and evenings mean we might need to start wearing layers. Plus, a new season just makes you want to switch things up, doesn’t it?
All of these factors combined often leads to indecision when we’re getting dressed. Do we start breaking out the fall pieces? Cling on to our summer outfits for as long as we can? Try and find a combo of both and hope for the best?
The good news is, we’re here to help put an end to all the confusion. We’re sharing some of our favorite transitional pieces and outfit combos so you can master the summer to fall fashion transition once and for all.
How To Transition From Summer To Fall: Our Top Tips
This often unpredictable time of year calls for specific style strategies:
Choose Your Fabrics Wisely
You may be tempted to dive into all things cozy and pull out your knitwear, but it’s best to wait until fall is really in full swing before you bring out your chunky sweaters and turtlenecks.
The summer to fall transitional period often comes with an Indian summer with higher daytime temperatures. There’s nothing worse than sweating in a thick knit top with nothing else to fall back on. We recommend sticking to breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and bamboo. If you’re really ready for sweater season, opt for loose knits or thermoregulating alpaca wool pieces.
Layer Lightly
You can definitely start introducing layers into the mix, but don’t go overboard. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy wool coat when that midday heat spell hits.
Instead, focus on lightweight layers that won’t weigh you down: fine knit cardigans, leather jackets, ponchos, vests, and zip hoodies.
Embrace The Colors Of The Season
Get into the fall spirit by wearing rich, earthy tones. Olive, mustard, burgundy, camel, scarlet … all that gorgeous fall goodness!
The beauty of this trick is that it works even when the weather still feels like summer. A linen blouse and pant set might sound summery, but we promise it’ll feel more seasonally appropriate in fall colors.
Integrate Fall Accessories
You’ll never feel too hot or too cold with accessories! Jewelry, bags, and shoes can completely change the feel of an outfit.
Swap your straw or raffia bags to leather or suede designs, start integrating ankle boots into your rotation (you can always wear a cut-out design if you’re worried about overheating), and choose jewelry with deep-toned gems.
Our Favorite Summer To Fall Transition Pieces
You can’t go wrong with these styles in your wardrobe:
Linen Pants
Linen isn’t just for summer! Many of us associate it with hot weather only, but it actually has thermoregulating properties. This means it keeps you cool when it’s hot, and warms you up when it’s cold. Perfect for those transitional temperature fluctuations.
We recommend our Michelle wide leg pants, which feature a flattering silhouette and ample pocket space. You can wear them with a basic top and cardigan or leather jacket in those early transitional days, then with chunky sweaters once the temperatures really start to drop. They even work in the winter — just layer some leggings underneath for extra warmth. There’s a reason these versatile beauties are our best selling pants!
Linen Maxi Skirt
If you’re more of a skirt person, we’ve got you. We still love linen for its all-around adaptability, and it flows beautifully in skirt format.
One of our favorite designs is the Quincy Skirt, made from a breezy linen/cotton blend. It’s easy to pair with basic tops, blouses, or sweaters when the time comes. And it looks amazing with suede ankle boots. Just like linen pants, you can carry it over into the winter by adding tights or leggings underneath.
Lightweight Zip Jacket
You’ll have plenty of time to rock your wool and puffer jackets, especially if you live in the north. For now, focus on lightweight jackets that you can easily adjust or take off.
We love zippered options, like our linen Jade Jacket. An elevated take on the classic zip-up hoodie, this jacket is an easy option that looks great with both casual and dressy outfits. Pair it with your favorite jeans, matching linen pants or skirts, or over a maxi dress.
We hope these tips have brought you some much needed guidance for the tricky transitional period. If you ever need more advice, we’re always here to help — just drop us a line or visit us in person at one of our Arizona locations!