8 ways to transition your favourite summer pieces into fall

For the fashion-minded, the end of summer comes with a silver lining: the chance to break out a new fall wardrobe. And while most of us can’t wait for the chance to show off our new leather moto jacket, September temps are often much too warm for it. To prep for the transition, we asked our Style Panel members to work some of their favourite summer pieces into what’s new for fall.

Question 143: How do you integrate your favourite summer pieces into your early fall looks? Read the answers now! »

Becky Kung, 30
Calgary | Velvet & Vino

This is my favorite seasonal style transition of the year where everything from the summer closet can move into fall by a few simple tweaks. Plus I love getting creative with finding ways to get the most out of my summer favorites by bringing those pieces into fall with me.

Right now I’m loving two-piece separates and although I’ve been wearing these shorts this summer with a cute tank top, the way that I’ll be integrating this look into fall is pairing it with the matching three-quarter length sleeve top. The top adds extra coverage for the cooler days, and to face the cool morning temperatures I plan to layer this look with a denim jacket.

Becky’s wearing: Top and bottom, H&M. Shoes, Aldo Rise by Misha Nonoo. Bracelets, Lucky Jeans. Handbag, Rebecca Minkoff

Sheena Virmani, 23
Calgary | Sheena Virmani

My summer to fall wardrobe transition always happens really slowly. I start swapping out jean-shorts for boyfriend jeans, sandals for flats, and begin to incorporate layering into my looks. This longer t-shirt (one of my favorite summer pieces) is perfect for layering, and in just a couple of weeks I can imagine layering it underneath a long trench coat or pairing it with chunky knit sweaters.

Jameela Ghann, 25
Calgary | Jam and Tea

The reason I love dresses is because they can be worn all year long. I transition my summer dress from summer to fall by integrating fall colors, layering, and accessorizing. I bought this dress in “classic blue” which was a hot color for spring, but definitely counts as a fall hue. That means I can wear it from now until November! Layering is also key for transitioning from summer to fall. Layers like a simple grey sweater keep me comfortable during the unexpected change in Canadian weather. Finally, accessories are key in bringing summer clothing into the fall season. I love a bold look and choose statement necklaces and stacking bracelets to add additional depth to my look. I personally hope summer never ends, but these tips will help you and I transition seamlessly into fall!

Jameela’s wearing: Dress, The Store Upstairs. Shoes, Alfred Sung. Jewelry, Alora Boutique.

Kayla Short, 26
Halifax | Short Presents

Arguably one of summer’s hottest trends was the “off the shoulder” or “cold shoulder” shirt, and naturally like EVERY one else on the planet I fell victim to its charm. Despite that the cool weather of autumn is about to roll in I don’t plan on getting rid of this shirt anytime soon. I’ll just swap out my denim shorts or some jeans, and I’m good to go.

Kayla’s wearing: Jeans, Gap. Top, Garage. Hat, Joe Fresh. Bag, Winners. Watch, Bulova. Shoes, Khols.

Lee Vosburgh, 28
Guelph | Style Bee

I’ve been living in dresses all summer, particularly this one, and I’m not ready to let it go! To transition it into the Fall season I like to layer on some denim and add darker accessories like this wide brim wool hat and a leather tote. It’s a bittersweet time because I love Fall but it’s hard to say goodbye to Summer!

Lee’s wearing: Hat, Rag & Bone. Dress, Ace & Jig. Vest, J.Crew. Shoes, Sol Sana. Tote, Cuyana.

Teresa Yoo, 24
Toronto | What T Loves

A simple way to prepare for the transitional season is to combine your favourite summer and fall pieces. I live in easy summer dresses during the hot months, and cozy knits are my go-to items for fall, so my perfect pairing for the transitional weather is dresses and knits! This way, I can stay out all day long through afternoon heat to evening chills without worrying a bit. Lastly, I would pay extra attention on accessorizing as a personal touch to stay practical with style.

Teresa’s wearing: Dress, Club Monaco. Knit, American Apparel. Hat, Forever 21. Silk scarf, Vintage. Shoes, Adidas.

Kira Paran, 29
Edmonton | Northern Style Exposure

One of the wardrobe pieces I will easily transition from summer to fall is my midi skirt collection. Because of their longer length, they feel far more appropriate with the cooler weather than, let’s say, a mini skirt for example. On warm evenings I can get away with this look but I’ll carry a leather jacket to put on once the sun goes down.

Kira’s wearing: Skirt, English Factory via Simon’s. Top, Nasty Gal. Shoes, Valentino Clutch, Kate Spade.

Photography by Trevor Negin

Barbara Ann Solomon, 25
Toronto | Barbara Ann’s Style Blog

As we approach the fashion oasis that is the fall season our wardrobes start to feel the most dated, as the newest collections are hitting the stores. When shopping it’s important to limit what you buy early in the season, to ensure you still have room in your closet and budget for the great pieces that will be in store into later into the fall.

The trick is to combine your newest fall purchases with your favourite summer items to create a cohesive look that will help limit your need for too much new stuff. I’m feeling very influenced by the 1970s, again, this fall season, so this transitional season is perfect for pairing flow-y tops, cute skirts and boots (with no tights).

Barbara’s wearing: Silk tank, Joe Fresh. Skirt, hat and collar, H&M. Boots, Zara. Glasses, Clearly.ca.

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