The best part about this whole make-a-summery-dress-work-in-the-fall thing? The money-saving potential. Because not only do you probably have all the essential elements sitting right there in your closet right now…even if you don’t (or are just in the mood to do a little shopping), guess what’s on sale right now?
Summery dresses.
I found the designer dress pictured above at T.J.Maxx for $119 (I know) and wanted to buy it to wear to next spring’s weddings…but I also want to wear it right now, because it’s too pretty not to.
– Choose your floral carefully: vintage-y, romantic, autumnal hues (the dress pictured here blends wheat and pale grey, but deep florals in shades of rust and hunter-green are good, too) work better than tropical ones.
– Pair your floral item with pieces in cozy, rich textures (like corduroy, heavy knits, or luxe silk) and chunky jewelry (like the gold chains I’m wearing here).
– Try topping the dress with a dark blazer, a chunky sweater in a medium-weight fabric, a cable-knit or cargo vest, or a leather moto jacket.
– For footwear, choose riding boots, pumps, or oxfords; nothing too strappy or bare.
– Go for thick, knit tights rather than sheers.
– Drape a big, cozy scarf around your neck, but make sure it’s not too lightweight – think large patterns, a bit of fringe, or heavy knits.
– Avoid dresses that are too shapeless and/or lightweight. Basically, if you wore it to the beach, it should stay firmly planted in your summer wardrobe.
(On me: Dress, blazer, jewelry and heels via T.J.Maxx. For more fall styling ideas, head over to their Tumblr page.)
