It’s September! Finally, time to bring out those cozy knit Rory Gilmore sweaters, super cute dark-wash flare-leg jeans, and vintage brown boots. Maybe even your favorite beanie. That is, until you step outside, instantly break into a sweat, and realize you live somewhere where the heat and humidity of summer rule well into the fall months.
If you’re in this sticky situation, here’s a guide to help you beat the heat while dressing to keep all the fall vibes.
Color Palette and Material Matter Together
While you can’t bring out your sherpa just yet, you can still channel your inner fall by wearing a medium-to-dark fall color palette with loose, lightweight material. The clothing brand Rei recommends finding pieces with breathable silk, linen, lightweight cotton, or knits that fit a bit loose on the body, so you feel less insulated on a hot, humid day.
If you tend to stick to the light neutral side of the fall palette, like beige and taupe, you may be able to wear some heavier clothing material. Just make sure it isn’t too fitted to prevent sweat.
Breathable, Stylish Tops
Fall is all about layers, but heat definitely is not. If you’re really big into a layered look for fall, try short-sleeve faux-layered tops that have the bottom neutral layer just around the hems.
With short-sleeve items, a common hurdle is the not-so-glamorous issue of armpit sweat. Many fall blouses feature cap sleeves, elbow-length, or puffed sleeves as a popular style. While they may give Elena Gilbert, they may also create unwanted heat pockets or stains, so be careful with those styles.
Need more inspiration for breathable top styles? Some short-sleeve and sleeveless top styles to try are: boatneck tops, ruffled spaghetti camis, moody satin tops, cropped plaid button-ups, and lacy babydoll tops.
Skirts and Denim
Fall equals denim, but denim is generally labeled as a huge no-no with heat, and for good reason. If you really want to wear denim, you have a few choices.
A lighter-wash straight leg may be an option for you, depending on exactly how hot and humid it is. To be safe, pair it with one of your most breathable tops, like a tank or really light knit neutral tee to reduce sweat. Dark-wash jean skirts are a great way to bring in some denim to your hotter fall experience. Since they are darker, try to get a skirt with a lighter denim material, ideally with blended fibers. Try to go with a shorter miniskirt over a midi or maxi length.
An honorable mention in fall fashion is the midi skirt with a lacy or colorful pair of tights. Yet, in the heat and humidity, tights can be a sensory nightmare.
From this, I give you the ultimate tool for fall fashion: maxi and midi skirts. No matter the heat or humidity, we can always rely on a good midi or maxi skirt to uplift our outfit of the day. The best part about these skirts is that they can be used as a statement piece with a bold pattern, or they can be a clean, solid color as a staple.
Dresses Are Also for Fall
Dresses aren’t only a summer staple. In a hot environment, they are a staple for all seasons. Especially during our not-so-fall season. With dresses, you can basically wear whatever colors or patterns you want as long as it isn’t super skin-tight. A midi or mini dress is a great piece to have for hot days.
Sleek and Structured Shoes
Choosing shoes that incorporate the darker tones of fall like black, reds, browns, and burnt orange can be difficult without choosing something too heavy for hot weather.
A sleek flip-flop or kitten heel will create some contrast with your outfit. Flip-flops are a great option if you want something very lightweight that you can get in darker colors like black and grey without causing sweat.
Flats and Mary Janes are a common fall staple, especially paired with a patterned long sock, but they can be problematic for sweat while walking. If you want the look of a flat but don’t want the sweat, a trending look right now is woven flats
If you’re looking for a more structured shoe, Carmela Shoes recommends loafers with thin cotton linings are great for foot support and ventilation. To dress them up for fall, shop in neutral colors like beige, brown, black, or burgundy, or add some lace ribbon.
Don’t Downplay Accessories
Whenever you can’t fully express what you want to in clothing, do it with accessories!
Lean into those earthier tones with jewelry that has a black or brown base instead of silver or gold. Bonus if it includes some sort of crystal that channels a cool, mystical fall energy. Bring the drama with black lace chokers that are “in” right now. Perhaps a scarily thin scarf that has absolutely no function other than an extra pop of color or pattern.
Incorporate chunky or statement jewelry into your outfits. Wear a big locket with a V-neck blouse like our girl Elena Gilbert. Wear a bulky gold watch across your wrist. If you’re a Halloween-type fall fanatic, it’s never too early to bring out those eye-catching pumpkin earrings.
For headpieces, plaid or leather headbands and bows add an extra accent of fall. Plus, they help with sweat by pushing your hair out of your face or neck.
Remember, you don’t have to sacrifice fall fashion entirely because of the heat. Just be intentional with your outfit choices to stay cool until the chilly fall weather arrives!