GAP oversized floral scarf, $29.95

Labor Day is almost here, which means the pool is closing and that when we wake up on Tuesday, it will be a cool, crisp 60 degrees. Right?

Yeah, I don’t think so.

I’m ready to be done with my summer wardrobe, but there’s no way I’m busting out the cardis and tights, not if the temperature is going to continue to hover near 100 degrees. But still, summer’s over and it’s time to bring in fall. Here are five simple ways to transition your closet without having to hover over the AC vents all day long.

Change up your pedicure. Summer is all about bright nails — I’ve been alternating between pink and coral this year — while fall is the best time for dark nails. Change your color, but start slow; opt for a gray or brown pedi for early fall, but keep fingernails light and neutral. When the weather really turns cold, I’ll go with black polish on my toes, but for now — while I’m still wearing sandals and open toed heels — I’ll stick with something a little brighter. My pick is Essie’s Chinchilly.

Mix up your makeup. The best part of summer is not worrying about makeup; the best part of fall is bringing the makeup back. Ease into fall with a more dramatic lip, or a slightly darker eye, but don’t go overboard — choose eye or lip, not both. A deeper pink lip, one with a brown undertone, is perfect for fall and wearable for day and doesn’t feel too made up. MAC Pink Plaid lipstick is a nice option; order it online or test it at the department store makeup counter.

Put away your sandals. Nothing’s better on a hot day than open-toed shoes, but if you’re trying to feel more fallish, swap your sandals for ballet flats or loafers. Either will go with shots and summery skirts, but they’ll give your look a more substantial feel, one that is in keeping with cooler fall weather.

Add a scarf. No, not your big pashmina — look for a light, woven cotton option, one that doesn’t weigh much and won’t make you hot. Layer it over your sundresses and tanks for a simple fall upgrade without any extra heat. The GAP scarf, pictured above, is a perfect transition piece; it’s big enough to give your outfit some weight but light enough to keep you cool.

bracelets from Stella & Dot

Bulk up your accessories. If a scarf seems like too much, go with a substantial necklace or bracelet instead. Summer is a good time for minimal jewelry, or none at all — who needs a necklace with a swimsuit, right? But while you’re easing into fall, add some heavier pieces to transition from warm to less warm. A leather wrap bracelet is the perfect transition piece; I love Stella & Dot’s options. They’re light and easy to wear and pair well with other pieces.

Subscribe to blog via RSS