Fall is my all-time favorite season. But, it can prove challenging when it comes to getting dressed because the weather can be . . . well . . . unpredictable in Northwest Nebraska. One day it can be 90 degrees and the next day we could have a devastating blizzard (for real though, look up Winter Storm Atlas from 2013). And, seeing as we began this week with low temps in the 40s and will finish it out with high temps around 100, it felt fitting to share some of my tips for how to create a stylish and functional transitional fall wardrobe.
I have put looks together using pieces you may already have in your wardrobe or may want to consider adding. These are transitional layered looks, perfect for the crisp mornings and cool evenings, and the warm mid-day fall sun.
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Transitional Fall Looks
These are a few of the looks I put together using the pieces I have detailed and linked in the post below. If you want to watch me style these looks in-person, check out the highlight on my Instgram profile–@highway20collective.
Structured Blazer
If you have spent any time with me on Instagram stories, you know I am a sucker for a great structured blazer. It not only provides warmth (function), but throwing it over any outfit instantly ups the cool and classy factor (style)–making it the ultimate transitional piece for fall.
Think beyond the board room when it comes to your blazer. Pair it with jeans and a graphic tee for a cool, casual Saturday vibe. Or, drape it over your shoulders with a sweet midi dress for a night out.
Anytime your look needs a little something extra, try it with a blazer. Works almost every time.
My actual blazer is pictured below (it comes in several other colors too–including black), in addition to a few alternatives.
White Tee
A classic white tee is something everyone needs in their wardrobe for any season, but particularly as a transition piece for fall. You can layer it under sweaters and jackets. Pair it with skirts or black skinnies. Throw it over a sleeveless maxi and tie it for a whole new look. You get the picture.
So.
Many.
Options.
I prefer my tees to be on the slouchy side, and a little longer–so I can also rock them with leggings without feeling self-conscious about my booty.
If you have a collection of white tees like me, these would make a nice addition.
Layering Sweater
When thinking fall you maybe dreaming about those chunky knit sweaters and boots. But, this piece is about transitional fall fashion–so keep those heavy sweaters packed away for another month or so because you will get plenty of wear out of them once November hits.
The transitional fall sweater, or layering sweater is lighter–depending on the color and fabric you may also be able to wear it again in the spring.
Look for one that is not too tight but not too bulky–you want to be able to put a cami or tee under it and a jacket over it.
Layer up with one of these sweet sweaters.
Peasant Top
Flowy, feminine and light. Peasant tops are a must-have transition piece for fall because they can be worn alone or layered, dressed-up or down.
I tend toward cream because it goes with everything and maximizes the wearing potential.
Here are few tops to check out if you don’t already have one.
Leather Skirt
Leather was another trend all over the runways this year. But, I for one have always loved a great leather skirt. Whether its faux or the real deal (you do you) it is a classic piece you can wear long into the winter.
Mix it with a feminine, flowy top or keep it edgy with a tee and jacket.
If you are wanting to jump on the leather train, these skirts are your ticket.
Distressed Denim
This is a trend I had a hard time getting behind (I mean I am paying for holes in my clothes–what?!?), but it’s hard to ignore and I have to admit, now that I own a pair . . . I love them. Right now, I am loving the cropped/ankle “girlfriend” fit for my body type–a great mix of the mom, boyfriend and skinny jean.
Distressed jeans are a great transitional fall piece because, let’s be honest, they often have ventilation–holes in the knees (function) and they are all the rage right now (style).
I love seeing them dressed up with a beautiful pair of pumps or strappy sandals or made casual with a bootie and long-line cardigan sweater.
I have the Scoop pair pictured below, but here are a few other choices too.
Floral Dress
Ditsy floral (a small, all-over floral print) is definitely “on-trend” and many of you may own a floral maxi or midi dress that you wore this summer. The best news is, you don’t have to retire it just yet. Throw that blazer or sweater (or both) over it on the cooler days. For the warm ones, a simple denim jacket or tee shirt tied at the waist is cool (as long as the dress is sleeveless).
Lulus | $54 
Dress Barn | $46
Bodysuit
A bodysuit is great for layering without added bulk or worrying about things coming “un-tucked”. You can wear them with denim, skirts or go with a dancer look and pair them with joggers. Top with a great jacket, cardigan or open knit sweater.
The one I wore is the first pictured below, but I have included a few different necklines too.
Ankle Bootie
This one doesn’t really need an explanation. So many reasons to love an ankle bootie and so many reasons why it is a great transitional fall shoe. Especially in a great cognac brown–which works well with blacks and browns.
The ankle bootie literally goes with all the pieces I mentioned above and will work great under those long pants once the snow flies.
Here are some fun options if you don’t already own a pair.
Accessories & Shoes
Here are some dupes to the other shoes and accessories I used in the styling session.
Want more fall fashion?
Check out my earlier post about fall fashion trends you can actually wear and afford!
I love to hear from my readers. If there is something you want to know more about or a particular thing you want me to style, hit me up.
Looking forward to seeing you in your transitional fall looks!
