As we enter into the 4th quarter of the year where the days are warm but the nights are chilly, we find ourselves really faced with the ever-present question: what am I going to wear?

Fashionably speaking, the next few weeks will be a trying time. During the day, the temperatures soar to the high 80s but at night, dip to the low 60s. Establishments don’t know how to set their thermostats, so you’re either freezing or burning up (I’m looking at you, Starbucks). It’s enough to drive you insane! In trying to adapt, either you’re underdressed, or you find yourself grabbing an old sweater out of your trunk just to stay warm (both of which are fashion no-nos). The weather may be erratic, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for comfort. How to have both?

Layering.

Layering allows you to build a look that’s both fashionable and functional. Playing with color, textures, and lengths is the easiest way to appear chic but still have flexibility with your look. Pay attention to fit (nothing tight, pieces should skim your body), and choose lightweight fabrics to avoid looking bulky.

Stars rocking layers.

Halle Berry

Stores may be full of fall clothes that you don’t need just yet, however, here are a few pieces that you can incorporate into your summer wardrobe to help you transition through the season.

Tissue Tees are essential when it comes to layering. Cut slim, they are a great foundation piece to wear alone with jeans, or top with blazers, vests, dresses, and jackets. Find one in Egyptian cotton or jersey for durability and stretch.

Blazers in a classic khaki, black, olive color layered over a floral dress will give you a polished look. Selecting one in a neutral keeps the focus on the print of your dress, while keeping you warm on the mornings when it’s nippy. 

Like the blazer, a long cardigan is a great layering piece. Adding a belt (over or under) will instantly give you an hourglass shape. Layered over a patterned silk or chiffon blouse is a simple way to experiment with texture.

Try:

When you’re tired of denim, cropped pants in khaki or corduroy are a great alternative. Choose a mid to low-rise lean cut that stops mid-calf. Skip flare styles (unless you’re 5”10 or a size 4, you’ll look squat), and either be safe with neutrals (khaki, olive) or more fashion forward with bold colors (cobalt blue, gold). Pairs easily with a tee and wedges, or ballet flats and a sweater.

Try:

Tights are a cool way to make any summer fabric wearable into the fall. Whether they’re opaque or lightweight with a floral or lace-print design, pairing tights with your dresses and skirts will give you a few more months of wear.

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