by Buckytat

Created on: September 13, 2010   Last Updated: September 16, 2010

Make the most of your wardrobe by transitioning your summer clothing into fall ensembles.  However, here are some 'rules of thumb' to remember while following transition tips.  Cover about 1/4 more skin that you do in the summer.  If you go short on the bottom, go with long sleeves.  If you want to bare your arms, consider long pants or a maxi skirt.  It's okay to wear your summer clothes in the fall.  Just make sure to include at least one fall item-color and material make a difference.  Layer, layer, layer! 

Balance light summery colors (like pastels and white) with darker, more bold colors (like cobalt blue, black, rust and gold.)  Good news, camel is an 'in' color this fall season, thus the perfect transitional color!  Pair a few summer essentials with a couple of fall essentials and you will have the perfect summer to fall wardrobe.

Top transition:

Shrugs or denim jackets-  Great for adding to any maxi dress or skirt and tank combo.  Keep the freedom of your summer look but block the breezes with a lightweight jacket or shrug.  DO NOT wear denim with denim unless you have a spectacular eye for color combinations.

Cardigans or thin sweaters for layering-  No matter what style you prefer when it comes to these layering options, your choice will look fabulous with tanks, T's and collared button-downs for cooler days.  However, this is only fall so try to keep your layers thin.

Bottom transition:

Boots-  If you prefer to show leg, pair boots with shorts, capris and short skirts.  The higher the hemline, the taller the boots need to be.  Don't wear ankle boots with an uber-mini!  That would call for an over the knee boot.

Sandals/flip-flops-  If you like freedom for your feet then keep bottoms long and continue to bare your feet with sandals and flip-flops for as long as you dare into the cooler seasons.  White is also okay for fall but don't wear white sandals with a white outfit....that's summer overkill!

Tights-  A colored pair of tights will pull any summer outfit together while keeping your legs warm.  Consider an all black outfit-black top and knee-length bottom- with cobalt blue tights, sash and/or headband.  Sensational!

Follow these tips, remember the rules of thumb and you will get more mileage out of your wardrobe- from summer and into the fall- than you ever imagined.

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