If you’re like me, you’re always looking for a new excuse to go shopping, just because you’re entering a new season doesn’t mean that you have to push all your summer attire to one side and start fresh. It’s all about buying wisely, choosing classic pieces that will boost your wardrobe’s functionality, and organizing your wardrobe so that you know precisely what you own!
Step 1 Organize your wardrobe:
When transitioning into fall, pull out all of your summer clothes and go through them (I find it’s helpful during this process to get some bins that roll under your bed or store easily in your closet to aid in the organization). Create three piles, one for clothes that will be stored away until next summer, these will be: dresses, tops or skirts in light fabrics or summery patterns (shorts, bathing suits and flip flops can definitely go into this pile). If you own more than one bathing suit, pick your favourite and leave it out of the “put away” pile, just in case you come across a time when you may need it.
At this point if you have noticed anything that has gone the whole summer unworn (especially if it’s been carried over from the summer before), anything that is too small or large, or even an item you just don’t like any more, put these in the second pile along with items from your pre existing fall wardrobe that you don’t want anymore. These can be bagged up and donated to the charitable organization of your choice, you will feel good for starting the fall season fresh and for contributing to a worthy cause in the process, plus think of all the room you will have for all of your new fall pieces! What you should be left with is an organized closet and items that are easily transitioned into your fall wardrobe, like t-shirts, tank tops, and heavier weight skirts and trousers.
When shopping for fall, think of what will aid your summer pieces to move into your fall wardrobe, cardigans, tights, scarves, and light jackets are good starters, make note of existing colours in your wardrobe and aim to compliment them.
Step 2 Purchase Wisely:
Layer your summer worthy tanks and T’s with a great cardigan and belt it at the waist, it’s a simple and classy way to get longevity out of your basics. Pair this combo with jeans and flats for an easy casual look, or with a skirt and tights for a more professional appearance. This Isli “safari breaker” cardigan in charcoal grey (left) is a great staple piece; it features pockets on both sides and has a nice long bodice to keep you warm. Don’t be fooled by its lightweight appearance, this cotton/rayon piece will be sure to ward off the chill and will layer easily under your light trench or heavy winter coat.
Speaking of light coats, have you noticed this fabulous glossy coat by Malene Birger (right)? It’s neutral tone will compliment any outfit and it’s lustrous appearance will also keep you dry if you find yourself caught in a fall shower; the easy trapeze silhouette is detailed with lantern sleeves. Or there is the trench (above right) by Tara Jarmon, both are definitely investment pieces, you can toss them over any combo of fall and spring attire, you may even find them handy on those cool summer nights.
Step 3 - Layering
The fall is all about layering and consequently it has become a big trend recently; it adds visual interest to any outfit and despite how it may look, it’s quite easy! To get more wear out of your skirts and dresses add a cover up, a trendy scarf and some tights, for extra warmth add boots it’s that simple. Easy layering pieces include this great pencil dress by Isli, though it may look summery you can layer it over a top with sleeves or add a cardigan like this second ensemble also by Isli. The cardigan is made of 100% Merino Wool and comes with the scarf; seriously I told you it was easy.
• Layering Tip:
Go for lighter pieces that won’t
add unnecessary bulk. And keep
prints to a minimum.
