I don't know about you, but I'm counting down the days until fall. Don't get me wrong. I enjoy summer as much as the next person, but the excessive heat we've experienced this summer has been quite limiting in the wardrobe department. The name of the game has been minimal clothing, which doesn't leave much room for outfit innovation. This lack of possibility has left me feeling creatively stifled, so the prospect of cooler temperatures is thrilling.
We have another few weeks of back-and-forth weather until we reach true fall temps (at least here in California), so I'm mentally preparing my transitional outfits. The key to transitional dressing for me is keeping some aspects of summer while adding one component of fall—for example, wearing my favorite summer dress with a pair of fall boots, layering a lightweight jacket over a miniskirt, or throwing a chunky knit over your shoulders with your maxi skirt. You get the idea.
This mix of summer and fall pieces allows you to blend the best parts of both seasons while the temperatures fluctuate. Since these outfit combinations have been running through my mind lately, I've started my fall shopping by paying particular attention to the pieces that can be mixed in with my summer wardrobe. Below, I'm highlighting the 31 best transitional fall items to add to your cart ahead of the season, from suede boots to lightweight sweaters to knit dresses.
Nour Hammour
Hatti Cropped Canvas Trench Jacket
This lightweight canvas fabric is ideal for transitional weather now, then layered over heavier knits all through fall.
Reformation
Remy Knee Boot
I would style these boots exactly like this now and then with jeans and sweaters later.
RESA
Elsa Cargo Pant
These might be the most flattering cargo pants I've seen. Plus, this color is perfect to go from summer whites to fall neutrals.
MISA Los Angeles
Amanda Dress
Styled with boots? Yes, please.
J.Crew
Cashmere V-Neck Sweater Vest
The ultimate layering piece.
Reformation
Mason Pant
I have these in two colors already and am contemplating a third—they're just that good.
Khaite
Dallas Ankle Boots
I dream about these boots regularly.
DISSH
Rowan Petrol Signature Blazer
This would look equally chic thrown over a T-shirt or a thick sweater.
Reformation
Odin Cotton Sweater Tank
It's giving quiet luxury.
Mango
Striped Cardigan With Jewel Buttons
TikTok loves this aesthetic right now.
GRLFRND
Sara Super High Rise Slim Straight
The fit of these is perfection.
Reformation
Will Oversized Shirt
A true closet staple.
Helsa
Workwear Long Skirt
Maxi skirts are still going strong, and this color is as versatile as it gets.
Zara
Knit Cardigan
A cozy cardigan is at the top of my wish list right now.
Aeyde
Ariel Cow Suede Leather Black Boots
Western boots are the ultimate transitional shoes—pair them with dresses now and jeans once temperatures cool.
Reformation
Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater
A classic.
Levi's
Baggy Dad Jeans
I love a light-denim moment for fall.
Cult Gaia
Zennie Knit Dress
Cult Gaia never misses.
Reformation
Agathea Chunky Loafers
Loafers are the quintessential transitional shoes.
Nour Hammour
Harriet Canvas Trench
The color say summer, but the silhouette says fall.
Helsa
Jersey Cropped Turtleneck Tank
Pair with a skirt now and then layered under a sweater through fall.
Camila Coelho Collection
Stanton Blazer Dress
Just add boots and your outfit is done.
Zara
Textured Short Blazer
This looks so luxe.
Staud
Wally Ankle Boots
This color is just dreamy.
Reformation
Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan
Wear open over a dress or buttoned up with jeans.
Dolce Vita
Rocky Boots
This color!
Helsa
Workwear Bomber Jacket
Lightweight enough for now but wearable for the entire season.
Staud
Valerie Shoulder Bag
I'll be swapping my summer bag for this suede beauty stat.
Reformation
Brooks Oversized Denim Jacket
Denim is synonymous with fall.
Sam Edelman
Colin Loafers
If you're looking to branch out from black loafers.