Transitional dressing [1] is one of those topics that's spoken about in fashion, but not always decoded in full. Like, what exactly constitutes a "transitional outfit"? Should a look be centered around Summer essentials or heavier Fall pieces? Are there key components and formulas to know? Furthermore, how does one know when one has nailed a transitional outfit? Who approves these looks? Is there a between-season fairy godmother we can tap to confirm?!
In my opinion, the short answer is: there are no rules when it comes to transitional dressing! Anything goes! Do you! However, there are a few key styling tips that are helpful for every woman to master, from the jackets and sweaters that are best for layering over dresses [2] to the types of boots that effortlessly extend the life of summery separates and textured extras that help make lightweight pieces feel Fall appropriate.
So, to prepare you for the in-between season, ahead, I'm breaking down eight transitional outfits that are A) perfect for Summer-to-Fall weather, B) fresh and fun, and C) inspired by some of my favorite fashion influencers [3]. Exciting, yeah?! To make the deal even sweeter, I've shopped out each transitional outfit with similar styles that range from affordable finds to investment-worthy pieces. You've got this.
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Blazer + Minidress
Take lightweight minidresses into Fall by layering a textured blazer over top. Keep things fun and cheerful by opting for bright colors, cute prints, and playful accessories.
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Arthur Apparel Lady Blazer in Celery [4] ($190)
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POPSUGAR Check Tank Dress [5] ($51, originally $68)
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Susan Alexandra Lisa Bag [6] ($360)
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Lili Claspe Pearl Elizabeth Studs [7] ($100)
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Reebok Princess Classic Shoes [8] ($50)
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Carolina Lemke Wren Sunglasses [9] ($75)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Tank Top + Blazer + Pants
Silky camisoles, bright pants, and colorful accessories are Summer staples, but you can easily take them into Fall by layering a tailored coat or blazer on top. When mixing several punchy shades together, be sure to ground the look with a few neutral pieces.
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Pixie Market Olive Brown Suit Blazer [10] ($142)
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POPSUGAR Square Neck Cami [11] ($14, originally $36)
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Zara Flowy Pants [12] ($40)
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Maryam Nassir Zadeh Bruno Leather Belt in Pacific Pony [13] ($280)
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Yuzefi Pouchy Bag [14] ($398)
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Sania D'Mina Elena Green Suede Heels [15] ($450)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Trench Coat + Jeans + Boots
Animal print and '90s denim are two major trends that are continuing for Fall. Lean into both by layering leopard-print pieces together over loose, straight-leg jeans. For an unexpected finish, western boots are the way.
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Something Navy Leopard Print Water Resistant Coated Trench Coat [16] ($159)
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POPSUGAR Essential Button Down Shirt [17] ($33, originally $44)
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Citizens of Humanity Annina Trouser Jean [18] ($238)
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Dolce Vita Suvi Booties [19] ($160)
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Marc Jacobs Snapshot Camera Bag [20] ($295)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Miniskirt + Jacket + Sneakers
The easiest way to take a miniskirt into cooler weather? With an anorak jacket and versatile sneakers.
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Anthropologie Marcail Anorak [21] ($160)
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Loft Plus Textured Puff Sleeve Tee [22] ($45)
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POPSUGAR Mini Skirt [23] ($20, originally $50)
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Puma Carina Leather Sneakers [24] ($65)
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Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses [25] ($69)
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Clare V. Herieth Crossbody [26] ($375)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Dress + Blazer + Heels
White dresses are hardly exclusive to Summer. For the in-between, style yours with an oversize blazer, cool kitten heels, and a geometric minibag in faux croc.
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Acne Studios Checked Wool-Blend Flannel Blazer [27] ($385)
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POPSUGAR Belted Maxi Dress [28] ($48, originally $64)
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Tibi Nathan Sandals [29] ($575)
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Mango Croc Basket Bag [30] ($60)
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Jenny Bird Harley Hoops [31] ($85)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: Jeans + a Blazer + Sneakers
Light denim can totally be worn post-Labor Day. In fact, a pair of off-white jeans look so sharp with a tailored blazer, graphic tee, and Converse sneakers.
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& Other Stories Oversized Cotton Linen Blazer [32] ($129)
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Pangaia Seaweed Fiber T-Shirt [33] ($85)
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POPSUGAR Midrise Straight-Leg Jeans [34] ($20, originally $50)
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Converse Chuck Taylor Low Top Sneaker [35] ($50)
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Stella and Bow Wilcox Hoops [36] ($65)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Sweater + A Skirt + Sneakers
A floaty midi skirt works just as well in cool weather as it does on hot days. For a cozy look, try your hand at print-mixing and team a striped knit with a floral print on bottom. Sporty sneakers take the look in an even bolder direction while sculptural earrings maintain an elevated effect.
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POPSUGAR Long Sleeve Boxy Sweater [37] ($37, originally $50)
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Anna Sui Asymmetric Printed Cotton and Silk-Blend Skirt [38] ($219)
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Adidas by Stella McCartney Adizero Adios Leopard-Bonded Mesh Trainers [39] ($174)
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Moya Jewelry Pruet Drop Earrings [40] ($232)
The Summer-to-Fall Outfit: A Dress + Sneakers + Bag
A printed dress is one of the easiest Summer-to-Fall pieces. Transition yours with a pair of classic Vans and a colorful bag in a unique texture like faux croc or snake print. For the finishing touch: transparent aviators.
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POPSUGAR Button-Up Midi Dress [41] ($48, originally $64)
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Vans Old Skool Sneakers [42] ($60)
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Nico Giani Adenia Mini Bucket Bag [43] ($390)
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Express Mirrored Gold Metal Frame Aviator Sunglasses [44] ($20, originally $30)