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Out With the Old and In With the New: How to Transition to Your Fall Wardrobe

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Pitt chapter.

As you get ready to head back to school, it’s a struggle to stop yourself from packing up your entire closet. Yes, mom, it is more than necessary that I bring my bright pink Free People slip to school; what if I need it? Though I doubt I actually ever will, it’s better to be safe than sorry… right? It’s hard to know the difference between what should be brought to school and what should not, especially when the weather could change at any given moment. Spending my summer wearing t-shirt dresses and having to transition to long sleeves and sweaters can be somewhat of a struggle. Have no fear; I am here to help rationalize the use of your entire closet at school for your fall wardrobe, piece by piece!

If you’re anything like me, you’re the type of girl that wears jean shorts until it starts to snow. I just think they go with everything. Whether you throw on a graphic tee and converse or pair them with a bodysuit for a night out, they’re a staple in everyone’s closet. When it comes to keeping your jean shorts in your wardrobe as the temperature goes down, you have a few options. Stick with your normal tee and short look, but throw a cardigan sweater on over your outfit. Not only will you be warmer, but you will also look more put together for fall. If you are trying to stay warm at night, pair your shorts with not only a cardigan, but tights also. This way, your legs will be less exposed. You can even try out different colored opaque tights; my favorite fall color for this look is burgundy!

Kimonos were all the craze this summer. Whether it was worn over dresses or with jean shorts, kimonos came in all different colors, materials, and sizes. If you still want kimonos to be a part of your fall wardrobe, swap the jean shorts for a pair of jeans.

Since most kimonos are so lightweight, a heavier bottom will balance out the flowy-ness. My favorite type of jean for the fall is patched jeans, like this pair from American Eagle. The wash is a good transition before the dark wash jeans come out for winter, and the patches are different from your standard pair. This pair is also currently on sale, so go and get them ASAP! If you still want to wear kimonos with your favorite daytime dress, this can still be done. Pair the look with tights, booties, and a scarf—you’ll be good to go!

Summer dresses were my favorite thing to throw on this summer. Whether it was a bright orange floral dress for work or a grey t-shirt dress paired with converse, dresses are always a summer phenomenon. Though time is running out to be able to wear them before the temperature starts to fall into the single digits, if accessorized right, these very dresses will be perfect for fall! A staple jean jacket is perfect to throw on when cooler weather is upon us. Gap has an amazing selection of jean jackets that won’t break the bank. Opt for booties instead of gladiator sandals this fall and you’ll look chic and cozy while sipping on your pumpkin spice latte!

Image credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

Hi! I'm Jessie and I am currently dual majoring in communication and non-fiction writing at The University of Pittsburgh. I am also the Senior Editor for Pitt's Her Campus! I emulate everything Carrie Bradshaw and can watch Breakfast At Tiffany's everyday for the rest of my life. You can usually find me blasting country music a little too loud while wearing a floppy hat.
Thanks for reading our content! hcxo, HC at Pitt