When that first cool day blows in, you’re always like, “WTF, I thought it was still Summer!?” Then, of course, you panic — you haven’t gotten in your autumn shopping yet. Whenever you’re transitioning from one season to the next, it means something big for your wardrobe. As summer ends, it’s time to put away our tank tops, crop tops, denim shorts, sundresses and clear the way for some cool weather basics.

Or actually, maybe not. There’s no rule that you have to get rid of your summer favorites just because it isn’t so hot out anymore. There are plenty of ways to wear your summer clothes throughout the fall that will get more wear out of the items and create some really cute looks. The key is layering, obviously, so that you can stay warm instead of freezing. After all, why should you have to store away your favorite dress when you could transform it into the perfect fall look? One of my personal favorite things about autumn is that it offers so many style options because of the transitional weather. Have a little fun with your pieces and learn how to wear them differently than you have been the last few months with these tips on how to wear summer clothes in fall.

Top 

 

No need to retire your sweet summer top (at right: White silk top, 55€; at Lilastylehouse.com)-just slip it under a softly tailored suit with sleek, sharp accessories and you’re all business.

Short dress

Summer dresses are usually light, sleeveless, and airy – perfect for warm weather. So as it gets chillier, you assume you can’t wear them. All you need to do is add some layers! Wear your sundress with a cozy sweater to make it appropriate for fall weather – you can opt for a cropped sweater that hits at your waist, which is a good option for fuller skirts. On warmer days, add sandals – on colder days, go with boots.

 Maxi dress

 

A maxi dress (at right: Asymmetrical polka dots silk dress, 151 €; at Lilastylehouse.com) seems like something you can only wear in the spring or summer, but that’s not true at all. Wear your summery maxi with a pair of ankle boots or combat boots to give it a more cold-weather vibe. You can also add a long sweater for a more boho look if you want. And, of course, ankle boots look great with shorter dresses too.

Add a scarf to literally anything

 

                              

A big, cozy scarf will make anything you’re wearing look right for fall – trust me. You can wear it over a summery dress, layer it over a tank top and add a sweater, or keep it simple with jeans. It’s the essential fall accessory, and if you don’t have one, you need to buy one now.

So if you’re days away from packing up your summer dresses for good, hold it right there! You can transition your warm-weather favorites by brushing up on some basic layering techniques.

Image Source: Lila Style House; Pinterest