As we greet September and get ready to bid adieu to a far too short sunny season, we’re also prepping for a sartorial period that can be a little tricky to navigate: the transition from a summer wardrobe to a fall one. But that doesn’t mean the pieces you've been wearing on repeat the last few months have to be relegated to the back of your closet. In fact, with a little strategic planning, you'll be able to weave those breezy, beach-worthy styles into a fabulous fall look. Need a little sartorial inspiration? Read on to discover our guide to making those tailored shorts, flatform sandals, and other summer hits a core part of your autumnal wardrobe collection.
1.
The Tailored Short
+ VIVIERS BANANA ORCHID OVERSHIRT
A quintessential summer staple, your tailored summer shorts have undoubtedly racked up plenty of wardrobe mileage over the past few months. And if you plan on keeping it in rotation, even as the temperature begins to drop, all you need to do is follow the tried-and-true technique of adding cold-weather staples into the mix—like a pair of thick black tights for example. Take our Slit Front Paneled Shorts by IAMISIGO: the epitome of summertime chic when paired with a chunky sneaker and crop, it’s swiftly transformed into a flawless fall look with the addition of a knee-high boot like the Falana OTK Boot and an elegant silk satin sleeved Banana Orchid Overshirt by Viviers.
2.
The Universal Tee
A well-fitting T-shirt may be the summer sartorial holy grail but to be quite frank it’s a year-round wonder due to its comfort and unmatched versatility. Once too casual for most offices, it’s now even a viable workday option, making it one of the most practical and useful pieces in any given closet. As for making it work outside of the more summery months? Well, that’s a no-brainer: simply pair it with an ankle length trouser and switch out that gladiator sandal for a classic slip-on loafer. Emmy Kasbit’s Adejare Pants are lent an air of relaxed sophistication when paired with Studio 189’s Accra Tee while the deep hues, elegant almond toe, and low heel of Shekudo’s Keffi Loafer is a fine choice to protect against the elements while delivering on style.
3.
The Quintessential Shirtdress
No need to pack up your favorite summer shirtdress yet—just introduce it to a few choice outfit add-ons and watch it instantly become a fall fashion fixture. Allow your favorite neutral-toned frock to become the foundation of your post-summer ensembles through the simple addition of a statement jacket that’ll turn heads and stave off the cold. With its cocoon shape and denim patchwork form, the De-Trench Coat by Nkwo is an unorthodox take on the jean jacket, one that’ll swiftly deliver the requisite dose of coverage, comfort, and panache. Swap those trusty flip-flops for a flat slingback style like the Maina Slingback by Shekudo and you’ve got a laid-back yet polished look that’s suitable for just about any occasion.
4.
The Chunky Flatform
Fall is traditionally the time to retire one’s summer sandals but hear us out, and maybe give the socks with sandals trend a little test drive. Controversial, we know, but who could possibly bear letting those on-trend, chunky flatform sandals go after what has felt like one of the shortest summers in a while. Allow this humble pairing to form part of your next summer-to-fall ensemble and couple it with a cold weather-proof, long-sleeved dress like Nkwo’s Twist Kaftan. Pull the whole look together with the addition of a tailored blazer: Emmy Kasbit’s Adanna Jacket is a powerful statement piece, the gentle-fit silhouette of which is the perfect intro to autumnal dressing.
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