August is here, which means soon enough that in-between weather will be here! You know the kind of weather where it’s hot in the afternoon but chilly in the morning, and you never know what to wear! The good news is you don’t need a whole new closet to handle this seasonal shift. You just need the right pieces that work double duty. I am sharing the must have summer to fall transitional staples that’ll get you through this tricky time of year without any outfit stress!
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Lightweight Cardigans
A lightweight cardigan is your best friend for this time of year! It’s thin enough that you won’t overheat when the sun comes out, but it adds just enough warmth for cooler mornings and air-conditioned spaces. You can wear one over a tank top, a summer dress, or even a t-shirt and jeans! Stick with neutral tones like oatmeal, tan, or soft gray if you want something that goes with everything. Or grab one in a warm fall shade like rust or olive to start easing into that autumn color palette!
Tank and Short Sleeve Sweater Tops
These are so underrated! A sweater tank or short sleeve sweater gives you that cozy knit texture without making you sweat through September. Wear them on their own while it’s still warm out. Then when it cools down, layer them under cardigans, blazers, or jackets! They look more polished than a regular tank top, which makes them great for work, running errands, or grabbing dinner with friends.
Sweater Vests
Sweater vests are back and they’re here to stay! They add a layer of warmth and are perfect for unpredictable weather. Style one over a button down for a preppy look. Or keep it casual by layering it over a fitted long sleeve tee. If it’s still hot, you can even wear it on its own. Oversized sweater vests are trending right now and they give off a relaxed, effortless vibe.
Button Down Shirts
You can’t go wrong with a good button down during transitional weather! There are a few different styles to consider here. Fall colored button downs in shades like burgundy, brown, burnt orange, mustard, and forest green instantly make any outfit feel more seasonal! A classic jean button down is incredibly versatile. And plaid button downs are a fall classic for a reason. That cozy flannel look never gets old! Stock up on at least two or three different styles so you’ve got plenty of options!
Denim Dress
A denim dress is one of those pieces that transitions between seasons without any effort. Right now you can wear it with sandals or sneakers. In a few weeks, swap those for ankle boots and throw a cardigan on top! Button front denim dresses are classic and flattering. You can also belt it at the waist to change up the silhouette!
Denim Jackets
If you don’t already own a denim jacket, now is the time to get one! It layers over dresses, pairs with jeans for a double denim moment, and works with pretty much any outfit you can think of. A medium blue wash is the most versatile, but black and white denim jackets are great alternatives if you want something a little different. This is the kind of jacket you’ll reach for over and over again!
Cropped Corduroy Jackets
Corduroy has that rich texture that just feels like fall. A cropped corduroy jacket looks amazing with high waisted jeans or midi skirts. I love this one for transitioning to fall! Classic colors like camel, chocolate brown, and burnt orange work well here. This piece will get you so many compliments!
Slip Skirts
Slip skirts are having a major moment and they’re easier to style than you might think. The silky fabric looks elevated but feels comfortable and moves with you throughout the day. For fall, look for solid colors like chocolate brown, black, burgundy, or deep olive. If you want something with more personality, a leopard print slip skirt adds instant interest to any outfit! I love this one! Tuck in a cozy sweater, add ankle boots, and you’ve got a look that works for the office, brunch, or a night out!
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are the shoe that ties all your fall outfits together. They work with jeans, dresses, skirts, and even shorts if you’re feeling bold during those last warm days! A classic black or brown pair will give you the most versatility. But I also love this cream pair. Once you have a good pair of ankle boots, you’ll wonder how you ever survived fall without them!
Overall
Transitional dressing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive! These staple pieces work together in so many different combinations. Mix your lightweight cardigan with a slip skirt. Throw your denim jacket over your denim dress. Layer a sweater vest over your favorite button down. The possibilities are endless! Grab a few of these items and you’ll be ready for whatever the weather throws at you this season!