Transition Dressing: Fashion Advice

August 20, 2008 04:00 PM | Comments (0) | Posted in forever21, old_navy, gap, fashion advice, summer, new_york_and_company, wet_seal, fall, transition_dressing

As August starts to wind down, thoughts turn to fall . . . and fall fashion. While we’re always anxious to jump into the season’s latest look, there’s the pesky matter of weather to contend with—and while the calendar may say it’s fall, there’s that in between time—when the mornings are brisk but by noon the mercury’s hit a sticky 80 degrees—that is soooooo very challenging to dress for. Of course, any fashionista worth her salt knows that layering is the way to go, but what to layer? We’ve got some ideas for what layering pieces will work to keep you both comfortable and in style as we bridge summer to fall 08:

Sleeveless or Short-Sleeved Tops

Think cotton, soft jersey, sheer, and keep the colors soft or neutral—no neon but not quite holiday-ready jewel tones either. This Women’s Twisted Neck Top at Old Navy is a perfect choice to layer under a jacket or cardigan, being sleeveless and a light breathable fabric, in a color like bordeaux, which could be appropriate almost year round. Another good choice—a short-sleeve turtleneck in a light, 100% cotton knit, like this Cinched Turtle Neck Top at Wet Seal, which will be stylish and comfortable both under a jacket and on it’s own, depending on whether you’re heading to work in the a.m. or on your way home . . .

Jackets

Consider a three-quarter length sleeve in either a curve-conscious fitted style or the 60s inspired cropped jackets that are still popular (like this City Style 1-Snap Jacket, $59.50 at New York & Co.)—and think a mid-weight cotton or even a linen in a fall-ready pattern like this Textured Linen Tie Blazer in plaid, on sale $24.99 at La Redoute

Short Sleeve or Elbow Sleeve Cardigans

Three-quarter length and shorter sleeved cardies are all over right now, and are the perfect layering piece to slip on over that cami or sleeveless blouse (and later, under a tailored jacket, assuming the sweater is short enough). This Elbow-Sleeved Cardigan at Gap is a versatile wardrobe staple for $44, while an Xhilaration Cap Sleeved Open Cardigan is a slightly trendier option, for $17.99.

Vests

Not quite ready for a jacket? Transition with a vest—they’re popular this year (though it seems people either love ‘em or hate ‘em), especially with the sort of vintage/glam/menswear/tweed trends we’re seeing—meaning they’ll be super versatile. Right now wear one alone over a short-sleeved blouse and make it work later (when the chill really sets in) by putting it over a long-sleeved top and/or under a cardie or jacket. A fall-friendly option? This Herringbone Vest, $22, at Forever21.

Scarves

Lightweight scarves are super hot this summer and fall, and are a no brainer for adding a little extra style and warmth (and easy enough to shed later when you don’t need it). At the moment, you’ll find scarves to suit just about everyone—from this funky Flight Pattern Silk Scarf for $28 at Urban Outfitters to this sort of ethereal Ombre Scarf for $10.99 at Charlotte Russe.

A note: Make sure that whatever layers you use, the base piece or pieces are appropriate enough to stand alone should you need to peel away as the temps cruise up to the afternoon high . . .