This time of year can be tricky. Technically, it's still summer, and the weather continues to be hot. But our heads -- and all the giant September magazine fashion issues weighing down our bags have us thinking fall.Add in the cooler nights that are starting to follow the warm daytime temps, the back-to-school season, and pre-season football, and we're caught up in a full-on web of clothing confusion.
Marshalls and T.J.Maxx style expert Sonya Cosentini says there are simple ways to balance your fashion picks as summer eases into autumn and you begin to incorporate fall trends into your current wardrobes.
"The best way to begin flaunting the fall must-haves when it's warm out is to update with accessories," she tells StyleList. "Add pops of fall to all those neutral-hued pieces from spring with a faux fur handbag or a fold-over cross-body style in a feminine metallic like gray or bronze."
And Cosentini says scarves will be a key accessory from fall into winter.
"Why not try a lightweight cashmere scarf with ruffled edges over a tank top and pair of designer denim? And then, there's the shoes," she says. "Pair an over-the-knee boot with a favorite summer dress or pair of short shorts. Peep-toe booties with cut outs or zipper and grommet details are a great match for anything already in a woman's spring/summer wardrobe."
Style expert and personal shopper Carla Nemiroff, of Carla's Closets, says during transition months, it's all about layering.
"Going into fall is where you get that 'still hot in the sun but really chilly in the shade' weather where you'll find yourself taking off and putting on layers throughout the day, not to mention the temperature in your office could be a little unpleasant," she tells StyleList. "I recommend using scarves and pashminas, which are great for outdoor and indoor wear, cardigans over tanks and tees and a light jacket on top on cooler days."
Here is some more advice on weathering the fashion storm between seasons.
Sweater Weather:
- "As the nights get cooler, investing in a few updated sweater coats is the perfect way to keep warm and layer onto your summer favorites," Cosentini says. "Try a belted sweater coat with rosettes, ruffle detailing and oversized buttons. Light-weight cardigan options with stripes and Fair Isle prints are perfect over a casual summer look."
- "Dresses are great transitional pieces," Cosentini says. "And, when paired with updated cardigans, accessories and footwear, they can be taken into the fall months."
- "A silk/satin dress, depending on the style, can work into cooler months with tights and boots," Nemiroff adds.
- "The lace-up military boots that have become very popular this past season were worn with dresses and short skirts all summer and are sure to continue throughout the winter with skinny jeans, leggings and tights," Nemiroff says.
- "For shoes, suede can be reintroduced to the wardrobe and paired with the same silk dress you wore all summer with a jean jacket," Cosentini adds.