After decades of being a Midwesterner, this year I’ve had the pleasure of becoming a Southerner. For years, so many of my Southern followers in autumn would tell me, “I can’t wear that – it’s too warm!” Now, I finally get what you mean. 🙂 Truthfully, I love the weather, but autumn is a very different experience here. This time of year in Iowa, I’d be reaching for sweaters and jeans. Now, in South Carolina, I’m learning how to embrace the essence of fall without all the layers. Basically, I’m finally putting into practice all the tips I’ve shared over the years! Here’s what I’m doing.
1. Letting My Shoes and Bags do the Autumn Talking
You know me – I’m a basics girl, and I’ll frequently wear these capsule wardrobe pieces: a white T-shirt and a black skirt. Not only are they great wardrobe staples to build an outfit around (for many seasons), but thanks to the shorter sleeves and shorter hemline, they are cooler to wear for a warm fall.
To add in the autumn essence, I like to rely on loafers and a fall-colored bag (chocolate brown, burgundy, etc.) when it’s too hot for much else. Hence my pretty basic outfit here. It was a “sweat on your back by 9 a.m.” day, so I kept it simple with just the T-shirt and skirt and let my extras do the talking!
2. Embracing the LBD
Loafers, again! It’s too hot for boots for me, and though sandals are temperature-appropriate, I want something that feels a bit more fall-like. That’s where loafers come in. I know not everyone is comfortable with shorter hemlines, but something like a little black dress is one of my favorite ways to dress for this fall season with summer weather – and it looks great paired with loafers. Very preppy yet Parisian chic.
Back to the dress. Black is hot, yes, but it’s something I’ll put up with for the chicness and ease of an LBD that pairs well with virtually anything. Lastly, a darling wicker basket bag (used as a purse) adds some texture and a slight nod to the warmer weather.
3. Incorporating Touches of Fall Colors
Here, I’m relying on my color choice to give fall vibes to my outfit. Burgundy is great for that! It’s a very autumnal color, and as you can see, it instantly gives an outfit an autumn touch. I also like to carry the color throughout my outfit, if possible, for a put-together, coordinated finish. The suede backless shoes are a nice touch for warm weather too – I get the vibe of autumn without having my feet feel too sweaty (yuck, sorry).
4. Adding a Very Light Layer
It’s not trench coat or barn jacket weather most days (yet), but I do add one light layer: a cashmere sweater or cardigan. It’s the best version of “sweater weather” right now! Something lightweight, thin, and gauzy is a great way to get the cozy vibes without overheating in wool.
5. Picking Summer Silhouettes in Fall Colors
A tank top, mini skirt… these are summer pieces! To be fair, I’m actually wearing a sleeveless sweater, which is thicker than a tank top, but the idea applies: choose summer silhouettes in fall colors. And if you’re thinking about what silhouettes especially work, I am loving a sweater vest/sleeveless sweater. You can wear it on its own when it’s warmer out and layer it over shirts in the winter… more bang for your buck!
6. Sleeveless Top Paired With Pants Combo
Pants paired with a sleeveless top is a great way to strike the balance between warm and cool without relying on mini skirts. The trick to keeping it looking autumnal is to choose a set in darker colors. This look wouldn’t quite have the same effect for autumn if it were all white, for example. So once again, summer silhouettes in darker colors are a great way to dress for the season! (Up close, the print is actually roses, not leopard print, by the way.)
7. Opting for “Fall Colored” Makeup
Your outfit may not look like fall… but your makeup can! It’s surprising how impactful a deep red blush, wine-colored lipstick, or brown lip balm can be. To “dress” your face for autumn, leave the light pinks and coral shades for the spring/summer time, and bring out your darker hues instead. Deep red, burgundy, purple, and brown are all good options, but of course, do whatever is most flattering for your skin tone. For lips, I’ve been wearing the Guerlain ones lately!
8. Skirts, Texture, Color, Oh My!
I’m hitting on a lot of things that I think work for a warm fall in this outfit! First up, a slip skirt. Though I do like a mini skirt, sometimes it just feels too early and cool in the day to put one on, ya know? That’s where a slip skirt comes in handy. The hemline feels appropriate for the in-between weather – when it’s cooler in the morning but will warm up during the day.
Next, texture. Incorporating texture like suede, knits, and woven materials is important for “weaving” (ha) in the autumn vibes. A suede bag or suede shoes (even sandals could work if your weather is really hot!) instantly give a fall feel.
Lastly, the color. A chocolate brown is a great fall color, and wearing it head to toe definitely screams fall! Yet, thanks to the sleeveless top, the woven flats, and the skirt, it’s not too hot either.
9. Choosing a Layer I Can Easily Take Off
Whether or not the sun is out can make a big difference in how the temperature feels. That’s why layers are essential. One thing to keep in mind is that a fall outfit doesn’t have to be all about fall colors – it can also be about layering and overall “vibe”. (Yes, I realize I use that word a lot.)
I’ve also learned that the layers can’t be too thick, and it’s helpful to have a plan for when the weather warms up so you don’t end up feeling miserable. I always ask myself: If I remove this layer, will it ruin my outfit (the important part, obviously), or will it be a burden to carry around, like a bulky coat? If the answer is no, I go for it.
With that being said, one of my favorite ways to layer is by wearing a V-neck sweater over a white T-shirt! It’s cozy and creates a preppy fall look, but if the sun breaks through the clouds, I can easily carry the sweater or tie it around my shoulders.
Discovering Fall Outfits for a Warm Season
I saw this quote the other day: “I wasn’t born in the South, but I got here as soon as I could,” and I feel like that about sums it up. I’ve always believed I was a Southerner at heart, and I’ve loved the challenge of creating fall outfits for warm weather.
For more fall outfit ideas (that just aren’t for the South), keep reading: 7 Stylish Fall Outfits to Wear From Coffee Runs to Cozy Movie Nights
Welcome to the south fall!! I wear my white or cream jeans with short sleeve fall color tees or lighter weight sweaters and flats or a vest. I also wear fall color tees shirt dress short sleeve with loafers or sling backs in a fall color and bag. You are getting the hang of fall in the south that can last thru December sometimes!
OMG! You moved?! I had no idea? What happened? Did you sell your beautiful new house? I hope everything is OK.