You know that feeling when the air has a crispness to it in the morning, but by 2pm you’re wishing you were wearing a t-shirt and shorts? Dressing for fall when it’s hot out can be such a challenge. There’s that weird in-between weather you have to navigate while still wearing things that feel right for the season.
Getting dressed for a day like that can be a true challenge. Should you wear a jacket? Do you still wear sandals? There’s a lot you can do but also still feel like you’re tapping into fall fashion without dying from the heat. I’m all about strategic layers.
Opting for shorts but wearing a boot or suede loafer. Or choosing jeans and a fall hued tank top. You just have to think about the season in a new way until we truly commit to real fall temperatures. Here’s how to do get dressed when transitioning from summer to fall the right way.
How To Dress For Fall When It’s Hot
When going from summer to fall, this time of year can be a real challenge wardrobe-wise. I’m here to help solve that problem for you! When thinking about how to dress for fall when it’s still warm weather outside, think about these tips next time you’re staring at your closet and asking Google what the temperature is outside.
Go For A Fall Color Scheme
You can 100% get away with wearing more summer-like items if they’re at least in a fall colorway. Think burgundy, hunter greens, browns and navy.
These colors feel like fall, so if you’re wearing a t-shirt dress in one of these colors, you’re already half way there. A great way to do this too when it’s super hot out is to grab those summer favorites like an eyelet dress but in a fall color.
Embrace The Tank Tops
I think the best thing for fall is a great tank top. This look is a perfect way to embrace the season of fall with summer temperatures. The tank is in a fall color palette, I’ve added suede shoes but I’m not dying from heat! Tanks also make a great piece for layering. Head to the next tip to learn why!
Choose Light Layers
When it’s freezing in the morning but hot in the afternoon, light layers are your best friend. This is why I love a great tank underneath any kind of jacket. Leather jacket, suede jacket, utility jacket or even just a cardigan.
By keeping something super lightweight and ideal for hot weather underneath your more fall-inspired layer, you give yourself the wiggle room to get a little relief from the heat. They add enough warmth without going crazy with a full-on jacket.
Personally, I love a great utility jacket or dark denim jacket. They’re light enough to wear all day but feel appropriate for the time of year.
Add In Fall Accessories
You can wear shorts and a tee but still look like you’re ready for fall if you add in all the right fall accessories. Add a suede shoe or belt. Swap your summer bag out for something more fall-inspired in a fabric like suede or shearling. Little nods to the season can make all the difference in transforming your simple summer outfit.
Opt For Dresses
The trick I’ve been using the most, great dresses. I’ve been taking my go-to summer dresses and toning them down for fall. Add a suede jacket or cropped trench over them for a quick fall switch. There are so many great fall outerwear layers to add to dresses.
Swap your sandals for a boot or loafer. Just keep in mind what kind of fall dress you are wearing. Not all of them will work so definitely keep your true summer dresses (anything linen or eyelet) stored once the season officially switches over.
But I love a great dress since they let you stay cool thanks to showing some leg or the breezy silhouettes! You can easily incorporate your new fall accessories to make them feel refreshed for the season.
Warm Weather Fall Outfit Ideas
Shorts With Boots Or Loafers
This combination is so easy for the weekends. It’s one of my favorite combos to wear. Instead of wearing your shorts with sandals or sneakers, opt for boots, booties or loafers. Ballet flats and Mary Janes are also a great swap. Again, when you think of your color scheme, go for fall hues when possible to really lean into the fall vibes even if it’s warm out.
get the look
Dresses Styled For Fall
Just take some of your favorite dresses and pop an easy light layer and fall shoe. Voila, fall outfit without dying from the heat. From your favorite black cotton dress paired with a blazer and Chelsea boot, or a fall hued floral mini with fall accessories, your dresses are your best friend on those warm fall days.
get the look
The Best Light Layers
This is such a great way to not only look the part for fall, but also pull a nice outfit together. A third piece like a jacket or cardigan makes an outfit feel so much more put together. Whether you do a utility jacket or leather one, or a light cardigan or wrap, you’ll easily transform any look for fall with this trick. Bomber jackets and leather jackets are also a great option to add to your looks for those warm fall outfits.
get the look
Add In Fall Colors
When you choose fall colors, you instantly look like fall. Even if you’re wearing a short sleeve top, or mini dress. These looks perfectly resemble my style come fall when it’s hot out. Fall booties and leopard prints, but still keeping things light so you can stay cool.
get the look
Mini Skirts For Fall When It’s Warm
Mini skirts are one of my favorite things for those warmer fall days. I’m just all about the bare legs whenever possible to avoid over heating. And this is a fun change of pace from all the shorts we’ve been wearing all summer long.
Many of these style rules still apply. Opt for fall hues and fabrics, and add third pieces to make these looks feel complete. You can always peel off layers as the day warms up.
get the look
I am a firm believer that once the seasons change, it is time to start to change the outfits. And I hope these outfit ideas and styling tips give you some ideas on how to transition your looks from summer to fall even if it’s warm out. It’s all about the fall vibes even if you’re still wearing a pair of shorts and a tank top. It’s easy to do, and will get you ready for the fall season.
