Fall has officially arrived! While I’m excited for stylish coats and chunky sweaters, we’re not quite there yet. As much as I love layering up in cozy pieces and embracing the autumn aesthetic, I also enjoy putting together those in-between outfits. Balancing summer warmth with autumn vibes—changing leaves and lingering heatwaves—here’s what I wore recently.
1. white t-shirt + black shorts + burgundy slingback heels + burgundy belt + burgundy tote bag
I like to practice what I preach, and I’d wear burgundy this fall whether or not it was trending—but I have to admit, I’m thrilled it’s having a moment again! It hits all the right notes: feminine without being overly girly, vibrant without overwhelming, and seasonal without feeling too heavy. Truly the perfect fall shade. With this heatwave, I’m still blending summer styles with autumn touches, and this outfit does just that. Plus, I’ll never pass up a good coordinating moment!
2. shift dress + loafers + socks + baseball cap + tote bag
There’s a viral audio going around: “Sometimes I want to dress like this. And sometimes I want to dress like this.” Hard to capture the effect by typing it out (haha), but you get the idea. Sometimes I want to channel J.Crew creative director Olympia Gayot’s masculine-meets-feminine vibe (like in the first outfit), sometimes I lean Parisian chic, and other times I go full-on preppy—like with this look!
Even though the weather’s still hot (I know so many of you can relate), I’m finding ways to sneak fall style into summer temps. Loafers are such a timeless shoe, yet instantly give a nod to autumn. Adding socks brings a preppy, fall-inspired touch without overheating, while the baseball cap keeps the whole outfit casual.
Related: 12 Hot Fall Outfits to Wear When Autumn Still Feels Like Summer
3. white tee + black mini skirt + belt + woven flats
What do you wear when the calendar says fall but the temperature says summer? This look. A mini skirt (or just a shorter skirt, if minis aren’t your thing) paired with a t-shirt keeps the outfit cool. I love woven shoes—I don’t think they get nearly enough attention! To me, they’re perfect for transitional weather, straddling the line between seasons. The closed-toe nods to cooler days, while the woven detail keeps things breezy and warm-weather appropriate. And let’s talk about the brown. Though it might seem subtle, even swapping from a light brown to a warm, rich brown signals that the seasons are shifting.
4. white button-up + sleeveless sweater + shorts + knee high boots
Fall is all about layering, and when it’s still warm out, you have to do it strategically! That’s where shorts come in. Start with a base outfit that looks good on its own (like shorts and a button-up), then bring in the fall style and warmth through layers. Just ask yourself: If I took off all my layers, would my outfit still look good? That’s how you know you’ve found the right balance—good with, and good without.
Once you’ve nailed the base, you can add more. For a warm fall day, I went with a sleeveless sweater and a draped sweater tied over my shoulders for extra style. When it inevitably got too warm (because it did), I could peel off the layers and still feel great in my outfit!
5. white button up + leopard print pants + red cardigan + red mules
Leopard print + red? Always yes. This combo never fails me; it’s bold, chic, and timeless all at once. These stylish yet comfy leopard pants strike the perfect balance: casual but statement-making. Pairing them with a crisp white button-up keeps things classic and neutral, letting the print shine. Then comes the fun part… pops of red! Draping a red cardigan over your shoulders instantly pulls the look together. Want 10 more ideas for styling a red cardigan? Find more here.
6. white cardigan + black mini skirt + knee high boots
I usually like to add a third or fourth piece to my outfits for that extra layer of style, but sometimes it’s not necessary. This combo of a cardigan, mini skirt, and boots is simple, yet perfect for warm fall days. The ribbed cardigan brings in texture, while the light brown leather boots add just the right amount of interest. Sometimes, simple really is best!
7. shift dress + oversized blazer + knee high boots
Recognize this dress? (Hint: Outfit #2.) You know I’m all about making the most of your wardrobe, and honestly, it’s easy when you have the right staples! Capsule essentials—like a little black dress, especially this one—are effortless to style in multiple ways. I also love playing with proportions; pairing a shorter dress with an oversized blazer adds a fun, modern twist. While I wore this look to church, it would make a chic work outfit too!
Early Fall Outfit Inspiration
Chunky sweaters will be here before we know it! (For some of us.) I love making the most of life—and my wardrobe—by embracing where I am right now. And right now, that means early fall outfits! I hope these looks inspire you to create a few of your own.
Need more outfit ideas? Here’s 9 Early Fall Outfits That Are Both Stylish and Weather-Friendly
