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The new season is almost here, and I keep getting questions about how to transition your wardrobe from summer to fall, so I thought I’d put together the ultimate guide for you. If you’re anything like me, you want to get the most out of every piece in your closet and not have to pack away all your summer favorites the second September hits.

I always say that fall is when my wardrobe feels the most “like me”—the layering, the richer colors, and all the textures. But it can be a difficult task to master when mornings are chilly, afternoons are warm, and you’re not ready to say goodbye to your favorite summer dresses just yet. That’s why transitional fall items are so important! Today, I’ll show you exactly what to look for, my favorite outfit formulas to use, and how to make your wardrobe work for you throughout the season. There are a few things that instantly turn any outfit into a transitional fall outfit for 2025: Lightweight knits & cardigans you can layer over dresses and tees Classic blazers and trench coats Well-fitted jeans (white, black, and dark wash) Leather or suede boots (I especially love knee-high and ankle boots) Midi dresses you can style a million ways A structured handbag in a classic fall shade (think chocolate, burgundy, or camel) Cozy scarves, hats, and gold jewelry Here’s exactly how I’m transitioning my summer wardrobe to fall this year (and every year, honestly):

1. Slip Dress + Cardigan + HEELS

A slip dress is a summer favorite, but as soon as it cools off, I throw on my thickest cardigan and swap my sandals for knee-high boots. Add a suede bag and you have the perfect transitional fall outfit. Similar style: Satin Cowl Neck Slip Midi Dress Similar style: GRACE KARIN Button Cardigan, Oatmeal Similar style: Loeffler Randall Triana Strappy Mid Heel Sandal Similar style: Structured Top Handle Bag, Black

2. Midi Dress + a cardigan

I love a midi dress, and to transition it for fall, I love to layer a fitted cardigan and add ankle boots. This formula works for brunch, errands, or even dinner dates. Similar style: ninovino Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress Similar style: Turn-Lock Shoulder Bag, Black LK Bennett Kara Toe Cap Ballerina Flat

3. Mini Dress + Chunky Sweater + Boots

Don’t stash away your mini dresses just yet! Layer on a chunky sweater, add tights, and finish with ankle boots for a look that’s both cozy and put-together. (This makes the perfect Pumpkin Patch Outfit) Aquatalia Jasmina Boot Walter Hagen Women's Clubhouse Sweater Vest

4. White Jeans + Camel Sweater

I don't really follow the rule "no white after Labor Day," so don't pack away your white jeans just yet, because you can pair them with a brown or camel sweater and some suede boots for an elevated transitional fall look. LilySilk Classic Cable Knit Sweater Toni Pons Piani Block Heel Bootie JW PEI Hana Mini Tote Similar style: Cicy Bell Cropped Wide Leg Jeans

5. Pencil Skirt + turtleneck

Keep your summer skirts in rotation by styling them with a classic turtleneck and knee boots. I always reach for my chocolate brown bag for an elevated autumnal look. Similar style: Linen Blend Midi Skirt Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Lightweight Long-Sleeve Turtleneck

6. Linen Pants + Ribbed Knit

I love linen pants so much that I try to keep them around even in fall. The trick is pairing them with a ribbed turtleneck and loafers or even Ugg boots to add a chunky cardigan if it’s chilly. Lauren Ralph Lauren Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater Similar style: Amazon Essentials Linen Blend Wide Leg Pants Similar style: Sam Edelman Lea Platform Loafer

7. Summer Tops with Fall Bottoms

\ Similar style: Suede Top Handle Bag, Brown Similar style: GRAPENT Cropped Wide Leg Jeans LK Bennett Kara Toe Cap Ballerina Flat

8. Mini Skirt with Sweater and Boots

Mini skirts look gorgeous in fall—just pair with a fitted knit or turtleneck and suede boots. Add a belt and your favorite structured bag for polish. This will look elevated and autumnal with a bit of a 60s vibe. Detachable Chiffon Collar FALKE Family Cotton Tights Similar style: Merino Wool Crew Neck Cardigan

9. The Trench Coat Layer

Throw it over jeans and a simple tank, add a scarf, and swap sneakers for block-heel boots. Instantly chic, with zero effort. My favorite trench coat is dark brown. Similar style: Faux Suede Double Breasted Trench Coat Similar style: Suede Top Handle Bag, Brown Similar style: GRAPENT Cropped Wide Leg Jeans

10. Jeans + JACKET + boots

This is a classic. Take your summer blouse and jeans, then add a camel or plaid jacket, brown loafers, and a leather bag for the ultimate transitional fall outfit. Schutz Mikki Up Knee High Boot

Stick to a color palette (mine is camel, burgundy, cream, and chocolate brown) Layer summer pieces with heavier fabrics (linen + wool, cotton + cashmere) Switch out summer accessories for leather and gold Make sure every outfit can go from day to night (yes, even jeans and a sweater) Repeat your best outfit formulas—no one will notice with the right accessories! If you’ve been wondering how to transition your wardrobe from summer to fall, I hope these outfit ideas and transitional fall items make it feel easy and inspiring this year. With just a few intentional swaps and the right layers, you’ll get so much more wear out of your summer favorites. If you want even more inspiration, check out my favorite fall posts below or tag me on Instagram @fiorinamarietta so I can see your transitional looks!

Shopping for a Western-chic girl too? My Western Chic Gift Guide has the buckle belts, boots and cozy layers I’ve tagged on LTK this season.

(I’m also the founder of American Darling, Western chic loungewear. Nothing from it is linked in this post.)

• effortless & classic fall wardrobe essentials you'll wear on repeat (they instantly elevate your whole look)
• 13 of My Most-Worn fall Sweaters From Last Fall (And How I’m Styling Them This Year)
• 10 chic ways how to style jeans in the fall (fall outfit ideas with jeans that look expensive IN 2025)
• Western Chic Gift Guide