August can be a tricky month for fashion.
With temperatures still steamy, it seems a bit superfluous to invest in summertime pieces with fall on the horizon.
To help you make more versatile purchases, we’ve picked four transitional basics and paired each of them with items you can wear now and later.
a bright skirtA great fitting pencil skirt is a year-round closet essential. This cherry-red Diane von Furstenberg skirt is a lovely pop of color for both your summer and fall wardrobes. | |
Summer Joie white blouse, $198, Neiman Marcus | Fall Navy blazer, $129, Zara |
cropped pantsA tailored pair of crops can be perfect for both an evening at Ravinia or a day at the office. In the heat, wear them with a flirty top and a pair of sandals, and when it gets cooler, sport a shrunken blazer and flats for a more polished look. | |
Summer Rebecca Minkoff printed tote, $295, Neiman Marcus | Fall Navy striped blazer, $79.90, Zara |
a structured dressRed-orange is a key transitional color this year—popping up in so many designers’ collections for both seasons. At 80 degrees, dress this jumper up with a cute pair of pumps and fun earrings. And once the leaves start to change, grab a lightweight trench and slip on a new pair of boots. | |
Summer Tory Burch jumper, $350, Neiman Marcus | Fall Tory Burch jumper, $350, Neiman Marcus |
a flirty dressNavy is a classic at any time of year and this dress can be as versatile as that coveted little black dress in your closet. Embrace the last few days of summer by accessorizing it with wedges and a straw bag or protect yourself from the lake breeze with boots and a colored scarf that can serve as a wrap if the temperature continues to drop. | |
Summer Knit lace dress, $98, Banana Republic | Fall Knit lace dress, $98, Banana Republic |