How to Transition Your Summer Wardrobe Into Fall
After countless days of rain and orange alerts because of flooding, it’s safe to say that summer has left the chat for good. But that doesn’t mean your summer fashion favourites need to be packed away just yet. The secret to a chic transitional look? Layering. Beyond tights, cute socks and jackets, here’s how to extend the life of your summer pieces and make them work for fall.
Generally speaking, how long you can wear your favourite pieces depends, of course, on the item itself. One category that transitions especially well is dresses, particularly silky slip styles in midi or maxi length. Throw on a button-down shirt or a soft knit on top, or add a tailored coat if needed, and you’re set for a stylish fall outfit.
When it comes to footwear, swap out your summer sandals for sneakers with a flat sole to achieve a comfortable, on-trend casual look. If you’re after more polish, knee-high heeled boots are the perfect option to elevate your outfit. One thing to avoid: pairing midi dresses with ankle boots. They often cut off your leg line in a way that can make legs look shorter. The same advice applies to skirts of any length.
T-shirts are another piece worth keeping on rotation. They can be layered under a blazer or jacket, or styled over a long-sleeved top for a modern twist. Pair them with jeans and layered necklaces for an everyday look that’s effortless yet trend-savvy.
And what about shorts? Whether they work for fall depends on the fabric and the temperature. Linen or lightweight cotton shorts may need to be retired, but leather, tweed or structured fabrics hold their own in cooler weather. Style them with a button-down shirt, a knit or t-shirt, and add a lightweight jacket on top for a chic in-between season outfit.
In terms of colours and fabrics, summer brights can be made fall-appropriate by pairing them with autumnal shades like beige, camel, olive or chocolate brown. Mixing lighter pieces with deeper neutrals (or classic black) instantly creates balance. For more inspiration, see our guide: Colours and Fabrics You’ll Actually Want to Wear in Fall 2025.
And if you’re building your fall capsule wardrobe, stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll break down the essential pieces every wardrobe needs. That way, getting dressed will feel like an enjoyable ritual - not a stressful morning activity.
