This time of year can feel a little in-between, can’t it? I’m still enjoying warm-weather favorites—like dinners on the patio and walks in sandals—but I’m also eyeing those cozy fall pieces starting to show up in stores. It’s not sweater weather just yet, but beachy sundresses feel a little off. So what do you wear when it’s technically summer, but your style’s craving fall?
If you’re over 50 like me, you want easy outfits that work for real life—things you can wear to the grocery store, your book club meet-up, or a casual dinner with friends. Here are a few of my favorite ways I like to ease into fall fashion while staying cool and comfy.
Shop the look
1. Start Playing with Fall Colors
When I want to feel a little more autumn-ready without diving straight into sweaters, I reach for richer tones. Burgundy, chili oil red, olive, honey gold—these are all gorgeous for early fall. No need to pack away your white jeans just yet; try pairing them with a striped tee and a lightweight burgundy jacket for a look that’s fresh but fall-forward.
If it’s still warm where you are, keep the summer vibes going with raffia or straw accessories. When it cools down, swap in some suede loafers and a darker leather tote.
pink jacket |pink tee | jeans | loafers
2. Add a Lightweight Layer
This time of year, the weather’s all over the place. A light layer like a poncho or wrap is perfect—it adds a little warmth without making you overheat. I just picked up this rose utility jacket that I toss on over a rose v-neck pink tee or white shirt and jeans. I wear it with loafers and a casual bag. It gives me an effortless outfit that works for running errands or grabbing lunch with a friend now (if it’s not too crazy hot) until late fall.
shop the look
3. Wear White in a New Way
Yes, white is still fine after Labor Day, although off-white, natural, or ecru jeans are slightly more modern and easier to wear! The key is to mix light pants with fall textures and colors. I’ll take my off-white jeans and wear them with a knit top in rust or camel, then add some cute sneakers and a crossbody bag in a warm tan or chocolate brown. This kind of outfit works great for everything from doctor’s appointments to coffee with the girls.
Shop the look
4. Bring Out the Animal Print
I always say animal print is neutral—it works with everything and instantly adds a little style. A lightweight leopard print top is perfect right now. Pair it with jeans and woven sandals for late summer, then switch to booties and a cozy cardigan once fall really kicks in.
5. Freshen Up Your Beauty Routine -Lipstick, Nails, Highlights
As the season shifts, I like to tweak my beauty routine a bit. I’ll switch from light glossy lips to deeper creamier lipsticks, add a little bronzer to keep that summer glow, and bump up the moisture in my skincare. Nail polish gets switched from light pink and peach to cooler more autumn tones. This is also when I book a haircut to trim those sun-damaged ends and maybe tone down my highlights just a touch for fall. Small changes, but they make a big difference!
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a full closet overhaul to move into fall. Just a few small swaps—like layering in deeper colors, changing up your accessories, or grabbing a poncho—can make your summer staples feel totally new. These little tweaks help you feel pulled together, even when the weather doesn’t know what season it wants to be.
Are you starting to shift your wardrobe yet? I’d love to hear—what transitional pieces are you reaching for right now?
What a big difference with these few simple changes!
And where can we find the lace dress?
Where can I find the green top pictured above?
Hi Stephanie, Here is the link: http://rstyle.me/~2xuLi.
Hi Deb! What a great site! Do you have an e-book for overweight women? I find I am instinctively going towards classic fashion and have purchased many neutral shrugs and bright shells and enjoy interchanging them. I have trouble wearing belts since I am short-waisted. I have an elastic waistband, but by the end of the day, it is folded over…not a great look. I have thick, heavy legs with “cankles” and need an idea for dress shoes. Due to a balance problem, I cannot wear high heels, so a lower or chunky heel would be better. Should I be looking for a nude tone in shoes? HELP!
Thanks!!!
Great “style recipe”; I love it! Copying this one. :)
Hi Celeste! Great to hear from you! I was at a friend’s 50th birthday party over the weekend, and she had no idea what to wear. When I saw her and told her how wonderful she looked, she took me aside and confessed that she had gone to Fabulous After 40 and searched for some inspiration on what to wear. She ended up with a snakeskin print jersey dress from Ann Taylor that added a hip belt, a pretty chunky necklace, and tall boots! That recipe worked perfectly for her!
Oooo.I love the dress!
MM
I also love the dress. Where can we get it?
Hi Stephanie, The dress is by Max Mara: http://rstyle.me/n/qcvdaueue
I’m with Carolyn – I love this.
I loved the scarf and kept rewinding the video to see how you tied it, but you were still too quick for me! I remember your head video about tying a scarf, but it didn’t turn up in my search. Can you tell me where to find that video?
Hi Carolyn,
JJ here…you are right about the scarf tying video. I’ll have to do another one this week and put it up!
UGG…..The other is so old, but you can see it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPNNvLOW8hY.
More of these how-to videos, please. I love that you tell us where to buy it. Thanks!
Hi Gloria,
Glad to hear you liked it! Good news…more are on the way!!!
How do you keep the dress from clinging to the hose?
Hi Holly,
Good question… I use a non-cling spray. Also, a lightweight slip would work! (ha..haven’t pulled mine out for a long time!)
Fabulous — great ideas!
Hi Cindy! Great to see you again on the site! Your feedback is always welcomed!!!!!
Great tips! Thanks.
Hi Shawna,
This is an easy outfit to throw in your gym bag and be able to walk out the door looking nice, even after a workout!
I love this look! Thanks for these simple ideas which make a big difference. I can’t wait to tweak a few outfits of my own for fall!