Style Secrets to Transitioning to Fall from Fashion Pros

From Harper's BAZAAR

As we welcome September, we also usher in a sartorial period that can be confusing. As we’re still dressing for warm weather, how do we make smart, stylish choices that round out our future fall wardrobes to perfection? While mulling over this question, we decided to ask the industry’s own. No one knows fashion better than this crew, so read on for the secrets to their transitional style.

Holly Wright,
cofounder, TOVE

Describe your style.

Timeless and minimal—I like to keep things simple and effortless. A lot of my wardrobe transitions from day to night, it's key to how I dress.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

Spending lots of quality time together as a family. I have two children, and it has been lovely being able to spend my days with them. We also recently got a puppy, which has been bringing lots of joy to our home.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

Seasonless staples. The weather is so changeable at the start of a new season, pieces like our Lourdes trousers are perfect for summer but also transition well into fall with a leather flat and cashmere cardigan. I also like to switch to a heavier bag for winter, which helps give a more autumnal feel.

Any quick style secret/tips?

I always keep my TOVE silk scarf in my bag. It's perfect if I need to quickly dress up a casual look or add a little warmth on cooler days.

Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars,
creative directors, Rotate Birger Christensen

Describe your style.

Madsen: I always describe my style as feminine, easy, and sexy. I love feminine silhouettes and a deep V.

Valdimars: Sexy, and not afraid of a tight fit. I love mixing in masculine elements and keeping everything bold and sexy.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

Downtime with family. We’re both mothers, and we’ve always put our families first, but we’re quite enjoying not traveling. Of course, we miss the buzz at international fashion weeks, but we’ve really enjoyed not traveling and spending more time at home.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

Wear boots! Swap out your sandals for a pair of fall-ready boots. And layering, of course. Your summer looks will go a long way into fall if you add layering to account for the unpredictable weather.

Any quick style secret/tips?

It’s all about the fit! Anything goes if the fit is right. We love a good minidress or a pair of high-waisted pants, and we really feel anyone can wear this if the fit is right.

Fe Noel,
designer

Describe your style.

My style is contingent on my mood. I’m either whimsical and vibrant or relaxed and comfortable. No matter what, I aim to look effortless.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

I've received the most joy from making changes in my home and spending time with family. Before the pandemic, I was always on the go and never realized how I was neglecting my personal space. My mantra is to travel often, and although you still should, I now understand it’s important to create paradise at home. Knowing so inspired me to create a Moroccan oasis in my backyard. It consists of hanging hammock chairs, Moroccan-style pillows, a rug, and some plant greenery. My family and I have enjoyed so much.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

The secret is layering and pairing your favorite summer pieces with added warmth. For example, a tank top can now be worn under your cozy cardigan.

Any quick style secret/tips?

Only keep things in your closet that make you feel really good. I learned this secret from someone else and now swear by it. It’s a process and takes time, but it is a genius concept. My second tip that I believe is super important is: Spend less time worrying about your size number, and instead focus on the way garments fit your body type.

Chainky Reindorf,
artist

Describe your style.

I typically am attracted to unique pieces that have unusual details and silhouettes. A bit of modern and a bit of edge.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

I have been spending the majority of my time in my art studio creating a new body of work that I am very excited about.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

I think it is utilizing pieces you already have in your wardrobe by layering. Combining summer pieces with winter pieces means you get to work with the best of both worlds, while still looking chic.

Any quick style secret/tips?

I love to play around with textures and proportions for a more interesting outfit, a chunky knit dress with sleek pants, a luxe silk maxi with a sporty undershirt, et cetera.

Lana Johnson,
founder, Orseund Iris

Describe your style.

Playful, vintage, and laid-back. I love old and forgotten things. A li'l funky, with a bit of influence from the '70s. I love mixing high and low, and dressing down statement pieces.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

Keeping it simple, keeping it casual! Making the best out of each day and enjoying the little things. I love New York and try to take advantage of all that the city has to offer. Been inspired by the outdoor scene and supporting BK restaurants and bars. I've found joy in riding my bike to work, finding vintage pieces for my home, having a sisters night-in, and trying to inspire through music by curating special Orseund Iris Radio playlists.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

My secret is experimenting, and I enjoy layering my summer pieces. I like not limiting myself to seasons. My favorite transitional look, like the silk set in any color, offers a nonchalant and effortless vibe.

Any quick style secret/tips?

Force yourself to wear something that's been sitting in your closet for a while. You bought it for a reason, now have fun with it! I swear it feels good. And you can't go wrong with vintage Levi's, cowboy boots, and gold jewelry.

Mimi Cuttrell,
stylist

Describe your style.

My personal style is pretty simple. I love well-tailored garments, a nice blazer or trouser with a simple tee. Something that can easily transition from working in the studio to running off to a meeting. I also love good denim.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

It’s been quite lovely to spend some time in my hometown on the West Coast. I’ve been enjoying going for hikes with the dogs and spending time with my family. Although I love traveling, it’s been nice to be able to stay put for a few weeks at a time and focus on some upcoming projects.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

I think the secret to a smooth summer-to-fall transition is incorporating pieces from each season into your look. For example, you can pair shorts with a chunkier knit or an oversize hoodie. Mixing lighter fabrics with heavier ones. It’s also a great time to start layering up. Don’t be afraid to mix color and texture.

Any quick style secret/tips?

I would say don’t overdo it with the accessories and don’t be afraid to mix high-end pieces with some simpler ones. It creates a nice overall balanced look.

Bettina Looney,
personal shopper and stylist

Describe your style.

Adventurous and eccentric. Comfortable but with a statement piece.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

My husband and I got a puppy, Archie, during lockdown, and he has been an absolute joy! He puts a smile on our faces every single day. We had an amazing summer here in London, and I managed to escape to the British countryside, continue to work hard, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the new season in fashion brings.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

Lots of layering and statement jewelry pieces.

Any quick style secret/tips?

1. Don't be afraid to choose the bolder piece.

2. Invest in vintage timeless pieces that will carry you from season to season.

TyLynn Nguyen,
designer

Describe your style.

Classic, regal, refined.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

My children. They are growing and learning, and will be the world changers of tomorrow. Taking this time very seriously when it comes to their mental and physical health.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

Use what you have and add layers.

Any quick style secret/tips?

Less is best.

Anina Heé,
designer, Refine

Describe your style.

I like pieces that work hard for me: jeans, cashmere sweaters, and silk camisoles and skirts make up the majority of my wardrobe. It’s a collection of timeless pieces that are of good quality that I have loved and worn for years!

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

Working remotely has allowed me to spend more time with my family who live back home and I don’t see as often as I would like. Also spending more time in nature and disconnecting from the busy city life has been good for the soul.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

I am not thinking in seasons when it comes to my wardrobe. Everything works for almost all temperatures if you just tweak the styling. Take our Lydia skirt in ivory for example. You would think it’s a summer staple, but I love to break the femininity of the white silk with black knee-high boots and a cashmere turtleneck when the temperature drops. Re-wearing the same pieces throughout the year also helps in creating a consistent through line to your look.

Any quick style secret/tips?

Rethink the pieces you already own! We think in boxes too often. The summer dress you have been wearing on your holidays? Probably works well with boots and a cardigan on top too. Your strappy kitten heel sandals? Wear them with jeans and sheer black socks—a look we’ve seen at Khaite, for example.

Jessica Wang,
content creator

Describe your style.

Bold, colorful, chic, and I love to play with proportions.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

Spending quality time at home with my husband and children always brings me the most joy. It is a special time to relax and unwind. Now we are heading into a new normal, I have also thoroughly enjoyed creating content on TikTok with fun interactive videos. I enjoy the process of creating, filming, and editing the videos to share, which has also brought me joy.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

I definitely think layering is your first step to a smooth transition from summer to fall attire. Summer dresses with a lightweight knit worn on top and paired with a boot can help transition you into the season and use preexisting wardrobe pieces by mix and matching. I also think cape coats are a unique layering piece that makes an outfit appear that much more interesting. I'm also loving coats with super-long hems. The beauty of this coat style is that you can wear it with just about everything from jeans to a power suit.

Any quick style secret/tips?

Belts are a great fall go-to, because they define the waist, and I'm loving how well they work with more formal attire, such as suiting as well. A thicker, corset-style belt adds a little bit of an edge. Micro bags are another one, because it's always fun to play with proportions.

Ellie Delphine,
content creator

Describe your style.

My style is eclectic, decidedly feminine, colorful, and fun.

What has been bringing the most joy to your days in the new normal?

I’ve been having tremendous fun filming Reels outfit videos with the clothes I can’t wait to wear when everything get backs to normal for good.

What’s the secret to a smooth transition from summer to fall?

Accepting that summer is coming to an end without ditching summer pieces altogether. I also start window-shopping early for fall pieces to slowly get into the mood. As an example, I will look for sweaters but choose something cheerful like a colorful tie-dye print.

Any quick style secret/tips?

Start layering slowly, wear jeans under your maxi dress, don’t wear tights too soon, and start with socks and pair them with your favorite dad sandals. Start wearing your favorite denim jacket again over your T-shirt. Just take it one step at a time.

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