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Well, we’re firmly in that awkward stretch between the warmth of summer and the chill of fall. Some days, it’s 75 degrees, the sun is shining, there’s an occasional cool breeze. Others, we’re waking up to misty mornings, crunching through leaves, and swaddling ourselves in sweaters. It’s a sartorial challenge, but one we’re willing (and even excited?) to take on.
The main message: You don’t need to pack away your entire summer wardrobe. Keep out the pieces with textures and colors that still work for autumn. Silks, nylons, crisp cottons, and lightweight knits in warm shades and neutrals can be put to work. Your flip-flops and white denim should stick around. Linens and summery prints? We’ll see them next year.
To help you assemble an outfit worthy of this weird weather, we’ve added up a few formulas. These looks don’t fully commit to either season, but find a sweet spot somewhere in between.
The handful of days you can wear a sweater with shorts is chef's kiss. The contrast makes both pieces feel fresh for the season and just particularly cool. Throw on your flip-flops when it’s still warm enough for your toes, and switch to loafers and sheer socks as the temps dip.
A cropped trench is an easy way to add structure without committing to a heavy jacket or coat. Pair it with a fluid top and balance the proportions with wide-leg trousers. Ballet flats are polished but light.
This summer’s most trending pants can stay in the mix with an oversized button-down that gives the abbreviated silhouette a more relaxed, considered vibe. Keep the shirt loose and slightly undone, then add loafers to sharpen.
Rather than retiring a silk slip, rethink it as the base of a new-season outfit. A lightweight knit layered over top transforms it into something closer to a skirt, while knee-high boots bring warmth and fall texture. Add a suede jacket when you need an extra layer.
A streamlined skirt and your favorite cropped rugby polo create a balance of proportions, while minimal sneakers keep the combination feeling relaxed (feel free to throw on some slingbacks for an office outfit). This formula works particularly well with contrasting textures—a soft knit with denim, cotton, or a slightly glossy skirt.
When all else fails, go with a classic. Choose your softest graphic tee (a threadbare vintage version is our go-to), relaxed denim, and a lightweight layer—think a chore jacket, windbreaker, barn jacket, bomber, or soft blazer—then add low heels for a polished contrast. Your white jeans still work here, too, no matter what they say about Labor Day.
