How to Wear Summer Clothes in the Fall: 5 Easy Styling Tips
We’re officially into the season of chilly mornings and hot afternoons—aka the season of just not knowing what to wear. Despite fall officially commencing in three days, we just can’t seem to get it right. One week, you think you need to bring your sweaters out, and the next week, you’re back in a tube top. Need some inspo for this awkward weather transition? Worried you’ll put your summer wardrobe away too soon? Don’t worry—we’re in this together, and I’ll take you through 5 easy tips to help you get more wear out of your summer wardrobe before the fall weather fully catches up to us.
1. Mix & Match
As we know, there aren’t really any rules in fashion — and we should use that to our advantage more! Free will is trending, and we are going to practice that during this transition period. Mixing and matching your summer wardrobe with fall-esque essentials will keep you warm and cool, while giving you that extra serotonin boost when you know your outfit is giving.
One of my faves these last few weeks has been shorts and boots —or skirts and boots. It’s a win-win situation, and you literally cannot go wrong because it’s so versatile. Pair knee-high boots with short shorts—even the bloomer shorts
Another flawless mix & match combo? A comfortable, lightweight oversized sweater with denim shorts—you know, the always adored small bottoms, big top uniform. The options are endless and let you get a few extra wears of your summer staples before the leaves fall.
2. Light Layers
The most simple and effortless tip: play up on those layers. (Not the wintertime, it’s -2° in Chicago layers, but airy and easy ones.) You know, the “Oh I just felt a light breeze so let me pull my cardigan closer” kind of layers. You’ll have to layering again soon anyway, so why not get a head start?
Let’s take the most common and timeless summer uniform: a mini skirt and baby tee paired with Adidas Sambas. That can still work for this “it was freezing this morning, now it’s hot” weather—all you need to do is add a light cardigan.
Layering isn’t always about your top half, either. Play with layers on your legs too: breathable tights, sheer stockings, and even thin leg warmers. Not only do they add personality to a basic summer uniform, but they also double as a shield for those chilly mornings.
3. The 60/30/10 rule
The 60/30/10 rule is a method used to balance tones and colors in your outfit. This method actually comes from interior design, where it helps balance color schemes in a room— but colors are colors, regardless of the canvas. That’s why this rule has been embraced in fashion, especially in the social media style space throughout 2024.
Here’s how it breaks down:
· 60% is your dominant color (typically your bottoms or dress).
· 30% is your secondary color (usually your top of a layering piece like a cardigan or jacket).
· 10% is your accent or pop of color — often your shoes, bags, or accessories.
This works great for any season, but it’s especially useful for creating that “end-of-summer, not quite fall” vibe we’re going for.
Let’s say you’ve got a light-wash denim skirt you want to keep in rotation—that’s your 60%. Then you’ve got a muted lime green top (your summer fave) as the 30%. For that 10% pop of fall? Add brown knee-high boots. Voilà—the method is complete. Your outfit stays neutral, but the subtle pop of color nods to the season without overcommitting.
4. Colors + Textures
Most fashionistas and tastemakers of the world associate seasons with color pallets. Summer is typically playful and bold, while Autumn brings Twilight, Rory Gilmore, Wednesday Addams energy—moody neutrals and warmer tones.
Start easing into fall by working those tones into your accessories:
Try a brown or black leather bag with cute charms, or even a muted cherry gloss. These little details are a subtle way to start autumnizing your summer fits.
Then there’s texture. Thicker fabrics like leather, light knits, and denim can add a little personality and keep you warm. Nothing says “I’m ready for fall” like a moody leather jacket to top off a summer fit.
