As the seasons begin to change, it’s easy to get wrapped up in creating the perfect fall wardrobe. The idea of needing to spend your hard earned paycheck to overhaul your closet with coolerweather work wear can be as scary for women as a horror movie on Halloween. But have no fear! Just because the seasons are changing doesn’t mean the maxi dress you’ve been wearing all summer is out of style just yet. In fact, there are many ways to convert your summer styles into autumn staples. With our tips, you will have a whole new wardrobe awaiting you this fall without spending a dime.
Autumn is all about heavier fabrics and darker colors, so the white linen suit you have been rocking at the office all summer might have to take a hiatus in October. However, that black or navy jersey sundress that you are about to pack away with your bathing suit can easily make a great addition to your fall wardrobe. The thickness and versatility of jersey fabric makes it a great year round option. Pair your once-summer sundress with a blazer and you’ve got a stylish, and seasonally appropriate, ensemble that won’t break your budget.
Many of us are also quick to put away our skirts until next year, but by slipping on a pair of tights, these items are an easy to transition into your fall wardrobe. What about the summer tank tops that you’re thinking couldn’t possibly be worn in the winter? Don’t send those into boxes too quickly either; these tops make amazing layering pieces as the temperature drops. Tank tops avoid the bulkiness that comes with trying to fit a long sleeve shirt under a cardigan and are an easy way to add a pop of color to any outfit. In fact, according to the fashion powers-that-be at Vogue, pastel colors are in this fall, so take advantage of all those summery hued shirts that normally spend the cooler months in the back of your closet.
When it comes to footwear, flats are the best non-season-specific option a career girl can find. Worn spring, summer, fall, and even winter, flats are a wardrobe staple. If you are going to invest in a new pair, our suggestion for the stylish and savvy shopper would be to pick practical colors like black, greys, blues, and beiges which can be worn all year long. From ballet flats to loafers, you can give your legs a little break from all those high heels, while still keeping your feet warm!
If you follow our guidelines, preparing your closet for fall will no longer feel like a scare tactic— and definitely won’t be a drag on your bank account. And as always with fashion, make sure to use your best judgment. Anything too short or too low-cut is too inappropriate for the office, no matter what season it is.
And just remember: clutter prevents amazing outfits from securing the spotlight in your wardrobe, so make a point to clean out your closet once a season and get rid of the things you just don’t wear anymore. There’s no need to wait until spring! Rule of thumb: if you haven’t worn it in one year, you probably won’t be wearing it next year. Use this purge as an opportunity to help your fellow women out and donate your lightly worn business attire to your local Dress for Success or clothing drive.