How to Ease Your Wardrobe into Fall

Here in the south once the warm weather sets in it's here to stay for some time. With fall on the horizon, I'm chomping at the bit to layer my outfits up and rock some new fall looks, but when the temperatures are hovering above 90 it can really put a damper on wardrobe choices.

These few transition months between summer and fall can be tricky to navigate. With fall on the horizon, you don't want to look like you're ready for spring break, but the thought of piling on lots of layers makes you sweat just thinking about it. What to do? Here are some of my best tips for navigating this awkward transitional period with ease and grace:

1/ Change Your Shoes - Swap your perfect summer sandals for a pair of peep toe booties in a deep color (black, caramel, chocolate) and your look will be thrust into the fall category in no time flat. This is by far one of the easiest ways to change your look. These look great with skirts (try a maxi), dresses and cropped pants and will quickly become your go-to pair. Not for you? Try a pair of short boots, clogs or other fall style and pair them with your best summery skirt or dress for a fresh look.

2/ Go Deep - In color, that is. While many summer-y looks are identified by their bright, fruity color palette, you'll want to tone it down a bit for fall. Sure, you can still rock a pretty floral dress or skirt, but anchor it with a darker, more earth-toned top, jacket or accents to give your look a heavier appearance visually, which is more appropriate for the upcoming season.

3/ Glitz it Up - While summer is a wonderful time for a pop of brights in your jewelry, give the look a more serious tone by swapping it out for bold, rich metals accented by the season's palette including reds, burnt sienna's and rusts.

4/ Add a layer - Just adding on another layer to your sundress or skirt and top can give your look a whole new life. Try a short sleeved jacket in a cool plaid, a tailored vest in a neutral solid or a cardigan in a deep, rich tone to kick it up a notch while still helping you to keep your cool when layered over a lightweight dress or tank top.

5/ Make Your White Just Right - White denim no longer falls into the classification of things you put away after Labor Day. It has been catapulted into perennial style-status to make its appearance all year long without breaking the rules. But to give yours an autumnal turn you'll need to accent it differently than during the summer months. Think Jackie O in her white jeans, black turtleneck and black flats - such a classic. Pair yours with something that's darker in color, layer up textures and don a pair of shoes that scream fall and you're right on target.

Email me at michele@onechicmama.com to discover how I can help you to start the fall season off looking chic – but most importantly, helping you to get dressed quickly and easily. Want to read more of my secrets of style? Sign up for my weekly ezine at www.onechicmama.com.