5 Key Pieces To Help Transition Your Summer Clothes For Fall

Aug 20th 2009 at 12:30PM by StyleBakery

The unpredictable weather of fall can lead to some pretty tricky fashion situations. One day will feel positively brisk and cool and the next will feel like the middle of summer. The great news is, if you arm yourself with some key layering pieces, you can wear many of your favorite summer clothes well into fall and beyond.

1. Scarves

A scarf not only adds warmth to your look but adds personality and style as well. This season, there are many options to choose from including lightweight scarves, infinity loops and chunky knit mufflers. Layer yours over t-shirts, tanks and summer dresses to keep your neck warm and your look cool.

The Bop Basics Cashmere Tube Scarf ($175 at shopbop.com) is one of this season's hottest trend: the eternity scarf. Made of a continuous loop that slips over your head, it has the perfect unfussy drape. The Goodnight Nora Paisley-Print Scarf ($12.50 at oldnavy.com) is lightweight and features a boho-inspired colorful print. This print looks great paired with a denim jacket and your summer maxi dress.

2. Tights and Leggings

Legwear couldn't be hotter this season which means you no longer have to suffer bare legs to look chic. The fall runways were brimming with opaque tights, sheer stockings, outrageously patterned hosiery and leggings. Turn your favorite summer dress or skirt and platform sandals into a stylish fall look by adding a pair of tights.

Black tights are always in style, but colored or patterned hosiery can really help to update your look this season. Chadwicks Control Top Opaque Tights ($4.99 at chadwicks.com) and HUE Houndstooth Sweater Tights ($15.90 at nordstrom.com) are great options.

3. Sweaters and Cardigans

A turtleneck layered under a sleeveless shift dress or a belted cardigan layered over a flirty floral dress are just two examples of the limitless ways a sweater can transform your summer clothes for fall. Try also pairing a chunky knit with skinny white pants or a boyfriend sweater with a pair of shorts and tights.

A classic cardigan like the Cocoon Crewneck Cardigan ($69.50 at bananarepublic.com) is a timeless look that instantly pulls together your look. wear it opened or buttoned up and belted. The Draped Cardigan ($60 at bananarepublic.com) has an artistic and graceful drape that looks pretty paired with dresses or skinny pants.

4. Jackets

Maxi dresses and feminine frocks look great paired with little jean jackets and edgy leather motorcycle jackets. Add a pair of tights and riding boots and these summer standbys easily transition for fall.

This Diesel Black Gold Godre Jacket ($399 at ssense.com) made of crinkled patent leather is the perfect contrast for your most feminine dresses, skirts and tops. The classic jean jacket like this American Eagle True Jean Jacket ($49.50 at ae.com) returns as a stylish option to layer over a multitude of looks.

5. Boots

Swapping your summer sandals for a knee high boot or little ankle bootie, with or without tights, can give a whole new look to your summer wardrobe. Try pairing cropped pants with ankle boots and printed dresses with riding boots.

The Franco Sarto Artist Collection 'Track' Riding Boot ($189.95 at nordstrom.com) is made of distressed suede for a vintage-inspired look we love. A bootie, like the gorgeous Nanette Lepore Double Trouble Bootie ($395 at neimanmarcus.com) can be paired with dresses and skirts, rolled up cargo pants and more.

Now that you're armed with everything you need to transition your summer wardrobe, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Anything linen, gauzy or undeniably summery should be reserved for warmer days only.

2. White CAN be worn after Labor Day. We love the look of white pants or jeans paired with chunky knit sweaters and boots.

3. Learn the art of layering to create a chic, versatile and weather-appropriate look. Sweaters and long sleeves under dresses and sheer summer blouses; scarves wrapped around jackets and layered over cardigans can be paired with dresses, skirts and cargo pants. Be creative with your layering to create your own personal style. (Want some inspiration? Check out the Dsquared² Fall 09 Ready To Wear runway photos for some truly artful layering ideas using all the pieces mentioned here.)