This story was shared by fashion contributor Kristin Kennedy of Closetful of Clothes.
Even though I’m in complete denial that fall is coming, we’re heading into back to school season, ready or not. Fall clothes are out and summer is all on sale (PS: that’s why this is the best time to shop for summer clothes). Since everyone is getting into Pumpkin Spice mode but the weather often stays warm through September and sometimes even October, I’m always on the hunt for the perfect summer to fall transition dresses—styles that are lightweight enough for the warmer temps but whose colors and prints work for late summer and into early fall.
As we head into fall, you want to avoid investing in more linen while sticking with lighter weight fabrics that you won’t be sweating in while it’s still warm and sunny. And while you don’t have to go with all autumnal hues, transitioning away from bright summer colors and pastels will help transition your outfits into fall. Then as the weather gets cooler, you can layer on blazers, cardigans, and lightweight jackets over your dresses and swap the sandals for closed toe flats and even boots.
DRESSES THAT DO WELL FROM SUMMER TO FALL
Ulla Johnson Emery Dress, $450
Lightweight and short sleeves make it work when the weather is still warm but the richer navy hue can veer more summery with lighter accessories or take you into fall with richer suedes and neutrals.
The perfect black dress to take you into fall. On its own with sandals it’s August-appropriate. Add a cute jacket and swap in velvet maryjanes and you’re ready for fall.
JCrew Maude Dress, $178
This dress is the perfect weight for warm summer and fall days. Just toss a sweater or jacket over it to take it into fall.
Doen Quinn Dress, $258
Gingham is having a moment and this palette makes it work just as well for fall as it does for summer.
A breezy dress for those hot August days and come fall, just throw a sweater over it and wear it as a dress.
Print is perfect for fall but it’s lightweight enough to wear while it’s still warm – just add rafia sandals.
JACKETS TO JOURNEY FROM AUGUST THROUGH OCTOBER
This jacket is perfect for making any summer dress work for the office this fall. This is a great option to throw over all those white dresses to take them into September but also works great with prints.
A great versatile jacket to pair with summery dresses to make them feel more fall-appropriate and weekend-ready.
A neutral lightweight cardigan that will compliment any print and fall-ify white to wear over summer dresses as the temps cool.
Every woman needs this cardigan jacket in her wardrobe. It’s structured enough for the office but can easily be dressed down and is the perfect way to make summery dresses work for fall if you’re headed to the office, the club or out to dinner.
A dressed up denim jacket that can be layered over dresses. Throw a sweater over your shoulders or add a scarf with it as you head deeper into fall.
More inspiration from the Local Moms Network:
Back-to-School Style: 6 Lunchbox and Backpack Sets Your Kids Will Love
