Jacket + Shorts = the Perfect Pre-Fall Outfit
Navigate the changing seasons with this foolproof OOTD equation.
Don’t let the wool coats arriving in stores fool you: summer isn’t over yet. While September is, in theory, the kick-off to fall, in reality it’s warm weather’s last hurrah. By 1 p.m., the sun is still blazing, the heat is still, er, heating and the threat of sweating on the subway is still very much present. How are you supposed to know what summer to fall transition outfits to wear?
FASHION put on our lab coats and determined (through very scientific means, of course) that the key to navigating this ever-confusing season can be found in this clothing equation: jacket + shorts = the perfect pre-fall ensemble.
Think about it: you’ve got removable outerwear for the cooler mornings, shorts for the warmer afternoons and an instantly put-together OOTD. Still not convinced? Consider the below a list of curated suggestions.
The blazer outfit
Nothing says back to school quite like a blazer. But unlike your academic days, ditch the plaid skirt for a matching pair of shorts for a sure-fire fashion formula.
Melanie Lyne Rolled Sleeve Linen-Blend Blazer
Yes this is linen, and yes, it’s a blazer. Melanie Lyne knew what it was doing when it released this gem of a jacket. Don’t overthink your summer to fall transition outfits and pair the piece with anything from a denim skort to matching shorts
Melanie Lyne Belted Linen-Blend Shorts
Still not over the Bermuda shorts trend? Neither are we. An extra-high rise pair seamlessly blurs the line between business and casual but the length makes them board-room appropriate.
Prada Cleo Bag
As any good Scandi-girl knows, the key to upgrading any outfit is with texture. Also, a little sparkle never hurt anybody. Let this Prada purse be the cherry on top of your sartorial sundae.
The denim outfit
The must-have material for your fall to summer transition outfits may just be hanging in your closet: denim. It’s easy, breezy and classic, and can look at home with everything from a white pair of shorts to knee-high boots.
Frame High-Waisted Patch Pocket Shorts
White after Labour Day? Correct. We live in a time free of fashion rules, so make the most out of it by repurposing your cream-coloured shorts. Our pick are these bouclé ones by Frame. Just be sure to bring a Tide-To-Go pen.
Stine Goya Belted Tailored Jacket
Belts are so back, but then again, you already knew that. Channel your inner Y2K diva with this denim jacket by Danish brand, Stine Goya. Not included: a flip phone and extra shiny lip gloss.
McQueen by Seàn McGirr Sling Bag
If you need any more evidence that new creative director Seàn McGirr is taking McQueen in a new direction, see this Sling bag from his first collection. Unlike its predecessor’s purses, the beauty lies in its chic simplicity and interesting silhouette. Also, did we mention the purse is made from Italian leather?
The car coat outfit
Look, sometimes you just want to look like you’ve come straight from the country club after a private tennis lesson, and throwing a car coat on top of athletic-looking shorts does exactly that. To win the proverbial style match, coordinate your colours with the court.
Reebok Classic Court Shorts
For days when you want both comfort and style, look to these Reebok shorts for your answer. Made from terry cloth, the material may conjure visions of the pool, but for those extra hot September days, it’ll be a much-needed reprieve from the heat. Also: elastic waistband. Need we say more?
Lacoste Cable Knit V-Neck Sweater
Put some extra prep in your step with this Lacoste sweater. The V-neck screams varsity but the cable knit texture will have people asking if any libraries have been named in your honour. Think student meets Succession.
Burberry Long Leather Car Coat
Now hear us out: While this bright green coat by Burberry may seem hard to wear, it’s an easy solution for your summer to fall transition outfits. The bright hue evokes memories from the sunnier months, while its leather exterior makes it an autumn must. It appears, it’s easy being green after all.
The trench coat outfit
How do you reinvent a staple? Who says you need to. Lean into the classic nature of this coat by styling it with other neutrals. Think creams, charcoals and other toned-down hues.
COS Convertible Nylon Trench
It’s a truth universally acknowledged that every fashionable woman in the world must have a trench coat living in her closet. Our pick will always be this one from COS. It’s made from cotton, it has a relaxed fit and it’s all-around fabulous.
Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater
A turtleneck for fall? Groundbreaking. But hey, they’re style staples for a reason. Stock up on these Uniqlo basics in a variety of colours so you’re always prepared for wherever the weather might take you.
Aritzia Effortless Short
If this outfit combination is any indication, opposites really do attract. Embrace those extra trench coat inches with these pleated shorts from Aritzia. The long and short silhouette will accentuate your height, while also regulating your temperature. Just be careful of the wrinkles that the crepe fabric is sure to create.
This article first appeared in FASHION’s September 2024 issue. Find out more here.
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Annika Lautens is the former fashion news and features director of FASHION Magazine. With a resumé that would rival Kirk from "Gilmore Girls", she’s had a wide variety of jobs within the publishing industry, but her favourite topics to explore are fashion sociology and psychology. Annika currently lives in Toronto, and when she’s not interviewing celebrities, you can find her travelling.