5 Easy Ways to Transition Your Wardrobe from Summer to Fall

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 to start easing into fall fashion while still staying cool and comfy.

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, just swap in some suede loafers and a darker leather tote.

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 have a toasted coconut-colored one that I toss on over a tee and black jeans. Add some ankle boots and a leather bag, and you’ve got an effortless outfit that works for running errands or grabbing lunch with a friend.

3. Wear White in a New Way
Yes, white is still totally wearable after Labor Day! The key is to mix it with fall textures and colors. I’ll take my 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.

4. Bring Out the Animal Print

I always say animal print is a 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
As the season shifts, I like to tweak my beauty routine a bit. I’ll switch from glossy lips to creamier lipsticks, add a little bronzer to keep that summer glow, and bump up the moisture in my skincare. 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?

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

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