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8 Ways to Transition Summer Clothes to Fall

A woman wears a sweater, a woman wears a denim jacket, and a woman wears a sweater dresss
LILLUSORY/Riders by Lee/OVOY

School is back in session and pumpkin spice everything is back in stock, which can only mean one thing: fall is almost here. As we start thinking about saying goodbye to summer and hello to a new season, it’s time to figure out how to transition our wardrobe. Here are several ways to keep your summer clothes relevant while staying stylish this autumn.

Wear a Jacket

A woman wears a moto jacket and a woman wears a denim jacket
Levi’s/Riders by Lee Indigo

The easiest way to transition your summer wardrobe into fall is by simply throwing on a jacket. A denim jacket is perfect for those chilly mornings and cool evenings. Demin jackets are a classic look that go with virtually every outfit, and they can be dressed up or down.

Riders by Lee Indigo Women's Denim Jacket

A classic look that will always be in style.

You can also try a moto jacket or bomber jacket to add some edge to your look. Pair a moto jacket with a sundress or jeans and a tee for an instant fall outfit.

Switch to Closed-Toe Shoes

A woman wears ankle boots and a white sneaker stands alone
Sorel/Adidas

Summer is all about sandals, but as the weather starts to cool down, it’s time to switch to closed-toe shoes.

Boots are always a good choice in the fall, and there are so many different styles to choose from. You can find boots that are stylish and comfortable that will keep your feet warm all season long.

SOREL Women's Emelie II Chelsea Boot

A boot that can be worn with casual and dressy outfits.

A pair of white sneakers is also an easy way to keep the summer vibe while staying cozy and comfortable. Sneakers can be worn with most outfits and are a great way to keep things casual.

Adidas Women's Grand Court Sneaker

This sneaker can be worn all year long.

Pair Tops With Jeans

A woman wears a pair of jeans and a woman wears a pair of blue pants
Levi’s/Dockers

One of the best things about fall is that you can finally break out your jeans again! After months of wearing shorts and skirts, it feels good to put on a pair of pants. (Well, for some people, at least.)

To transition your summer tops into fall, simply pair them with a pair of jeans. This is a great way to get more use out of your summer clothes while still staying warm. Jeans are also a closet staple that will never go out of style.

Levi's Women's 311 Shaping Skinny Jeans

Every woman needs a pair in her closet.

If you hate jeans, never fear: you can wear summer tops with any pair of long pants. A crisp pair of chinos or dress pants is an easy way to feel dressier without actually putting on a dress.

Add Lightweight Layers

A woman wears a cardigan and a woman wears a white tee shirt
Amazon Essentials/Hanes

Another easy way to transition your wardrobe from summer to fall is by adding layers. When it comes to fall weather, layers truly are the best accessory. A cardigan or light jacket is the perfect way to add a little warmth without being too hot.

You can also try layering a tee shirt under a dress or tunic. This is a great way to get more use out of your summer clothes and stay warm at the same time.

Hanes Women's Perfect-T

A staple in every closet, any time of the year.

Bring Along a Sweater

Two women wear a sweater
LILLUSORY

A cozy sweater can keep you warm and stylish as you transition from summer to fall. Wear one over a dress or on top of a completed outfit in the morning when it’s cold outside. When the weather starts to get warm, you can drape the sweater over your shoulders, tie it around your waist, or ditch it completely.

LILLUSORY Women's Turtleneck Oversized Sweater

A sweater that can carry you through fall and winter.

Throw On a Hat

A woman wears a sweater dress and a woman wears a beanie
OVOY/Tough Headwear

A hat is a great way to keep your head and ears warm while still looking stylish. You can find hats in all different styles, from cowboy hats to fedoras. A hat is also a great way to add some personality to your outfit. Throw on a beanie to keep your outfit casual and to stay warm on chilling mornings.

Tough Headwear Women's Beanie

Keep your noggin' warm, cozy, and stylish.

Rancher hats add a rustic touch to any fall outfit. They’re also perfect for outdoor activities like apple picking because they’ll keep you protected from the sun.

Women's Felt Rancher Hat

Pull any outfit together and protect your head.

Slip On Tights or Leggings

A woman wears fishnet leggings and a woman wears leggings
Charmnight/Colorfulkoala

Tights and leggings are a great way to keep your legs warm in cooler weather. They also add a bit of coverage if you want to wear a dress or skirt without being too cold. Tights come in all different colors and patterns, so you can find a pair that goes with any outfit. Fishnet tights, for example, are great for a grunge look, while sheer black tights can dress up what you’re already wearing.

Charmnight Fishnet Stockings

Add a pop of personality to your outfit.

Leggings are also a comfortable option that can be dressed up or down. You can wear leggings under a skirt or dress, or underneath shorts or pants like you would wear tights. Just make sure they aren’t too thick or your pants won’t fit very well.

Accessorize With a Scarf

Two women wear plaid scarves
Wander Agio

Is it really fall if you aren’t donning a cozy scarf? Scarves are the perfect way to add some color and personality to your outfit. They also keep your neck and chest warm, which is always a bonus.

You can find scarves in all different materials, from wool to cashmere. And they come in an endless array of colors, patterns, and sizes, so you’re guaranteed to find one that will pull together your entire outfit. If you aren’t sure where to start when it comes to shopping for a scarf, look for pieces in neutral colors that will go with almost any outfit.

Wander Agio Women's Warm Blanket Scarf

Add warmth and style to your outfit.


Fall is just around the corner. Before you throw out all of your summer clothes, here are a few ways you can transition to autumn with pieces from both seasons.

Anne Taylor Anne Taylor
Anne Taylor is a writer with a BA in Journalism and a passion for storytelling. Her work has been published on a variety of websites including Mental Floss and Well + Good, and she recently published her first novel, What it Takes to Lose. When she's not writing, Anne loves to travel (19 countries and counting), spend time outside, and play with her dog, Pepper. Read Full Bio »
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