Endless days, laidback vibes, happy hours and more happy hours. Saying goodbye to the perks of summer can be a total buzzkill and, for some, retiring those breezy, warm-weather favorites in favor of knits, coats, and boots is a part of the mourning process. But mourn not — you don’t have to go cold turkey, thanks to these transitional tips from Katherine Antonucci, a Trunk Club stylist.
Oh, and about Trunk Club: It’s a personal styling service that’s super useful for these transitional moments, when navigating seasonal trends can seem complicated. So how does it actually work? You can connect with a Trunk Club stylist in person at one of their six Clubhouse locations. Or, sign up online and answer a few questions about your general style preferences, sizing, and desired fit, and your price range and budget. After chatting with a Trunk Club stylist, you’ll receive your “Trunk” — a curated mix of items and brands tailored to your desired price point — via doorstep delivery in four to six business days.
Here, Antonucci weighs in on mastering the art of layering, refreshing your denim rotation, and more.
1. You can cling onto camis and summery dresses a little longer.
When days are still warm but evenings are cool (not to mention any office AC problems), dressing feels like a guessing game. To accommodate this period of wonky transitional weather, Antonucci recommends incorporating fall pieces (think structured fits and lighter knits) into your rotation, in baby steps.
And it’s a pretty effortless approach, Antonucci says: “Tailored styles are a nice change of pace come autumn. For those in-between days, try mixing some summer and fall garments together. A lightweight sweater, midi skirt, and sandals or mules is a really elegant ensemble. Or, wear a blazer with a silk cami and distressed denim.”
2. Speaking of blazers…
The ultimate working-girl basic just so happens to be your outerwear savior for this time of year. Classic and fitted or menswear-inspired with a boxy look, a signature blazer can ease you into coat territory. Not to mention, throwing one on is the quickest way to pull off a put-together outfit — even if paired with more casual looks, like a jeans-and-tee combo or maxi skirt.
But first, the fit: “There is nothing more important than fit. So focus on quality, and don’t be afraid to spend a little more than you normally would when you find those pieces that conform beautifully to your body. When something fits well, you’ll wear it more often — which makes it worth the investment.”
3. There’s more to layering than just cozying up.
Layering is a given when it comes to adjusting to the fall chill, but it’s also a practical styling approach for days that stretch longer than 9-to-5. So if you’re going straight from the office to happy hour, pack a blazer or denim jacket that can evolve your look as you go through your day.
Mix up your textures and proportion: “The word to keep in mind here is ‘balance.’ If you’re wearing an oversized top, for instance, even out that volume with a skinny or slim-fit pant. A really textured top layer, like a tweed coat, looks great over a smooth silk cami.”
4. Make sneakers your wear-with-all.
Sneakers, sneakers, everywhere. Summer’s almost over, but that doesn’t mean you have to put away the easy-going, laidback vibes. According to Antonucci, athleisure is still going strong — so take it as an excuse to wear your favorite errand-friendly kicks everywhere.
Don’t be afraid of going formal: “Thanks to the insane popularity of athleisure, sneakers are acceptable for so many more occasions than they used to be. A simple, modern pair — whether you prefer a slip-on or a lace-up — can be worn to work with slim trousers and a classic striped top, or to brunch with a maxi skirt and cable-knit sweater. Just remember to keep them clean!”
5. Rethink your denim game.
Truth: Denim is season-proof, so see this time as an opportunity to experiment. If you’ve been married to your vintage straight legs with a five-button closure, give a floor-skimming, ’70s-style flared pair a try. Can’t part with your black skinny jeans? Trade them in for a distressed gray option.
A few more ways to mix up your denim: “Fall is a good time to invest in some premium denim that’ll last you for seasons — or even years — to come. And as much as we love our skinnies, don’t be afraid to branch out: Try the straight-leg trend if you haven’t yet, and if you’re really open to new styles, slip into some wide-legs and other more voluminous silhouettes.”
6. Switch out candy brights for richer jewel tones.
Because it’s not a wardrobe-transitioning article without a little note on color. Brightly colored shoes and accessories tend to be the go-to “pop of color” for a minimalist summer look, and jewel tones can do the same for your fall neutrals — only with a cooler, more understated effect.
When in doubt, go one shade deeper: “Once September hits, you’ll want to rethink your color palettes. Were those great citrusy brights your favorites over the summer? Transition them to more autumnal hues: Lemon yellow becomes goldenrod, for instance, and bright pink deepens into fuchsia.”
And good news for Trunk Club newbies: You can try one Trunk for starters (it’s not a subscription service, so you’re never locked into committing to a month-to-month plan.) Get more details on how it works here.
This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Brand Studio. The editorial staff of The Cut did not play a role in its creation.