From Summer to Fall: Transitional Outfit Ideas

The Art of Layering: Transitioning from Warm to Cool

Autumn is exciting for a multitude of reasons—stunning leaf peeping opportunities, spooky date night plans, cozy recipes in the queue, and our favorite, crisp mornings and warm afternoons that call for fall transitional outfits. It’s time to plan (and shop!) for your autumn wardrobe. The key to dressing for this transitional weather is establishing a foundation of wardrobe essentials, such as neutral knits, light outerwear options, classic tops and tanks and versatile dresses that can both stand alone and be layered together.

Key Transitional Pieces to Invest In

If we had to pick one piece we are most excited to style this season, it would be the field jacket that comes in a handful of colorways. Perfect for pairing with both a polished look to wear to work or for throwing on when heading out for a more casual day of apple picking, this jacket has a structured feel while remaining comfortable and versatile. It feels impossible to mention a great jacket like that one without thinking about our favorite sweaters: the button front pointelle-sleeve cardigan and classic cableknit quarter zip in cream that go with not only boxer shorts or leggings but also maxi dresses and jeans. 


Maybe your fall style leans more sporty—our best-selling lightweight sweatshirt may just be your new best friend. The type of piece you gravitate to day after day, this sweatshirt is available in a variety of patterns that pop. For a slightly different vibe, opt for a top like the corey bell sleeve or scoop neck mesh with voluminous and breathable sleeves. Our team also loves this Italian-vibe short sleeve sweater that adds a touch of casual luxury.

How to Style Draper James Dresses for Fall

When we think of versatile clothing, denim & chambray are the first things that come to mind. Start with this best-selling silhouette and pair it with a sandal if you’re holding onto warm summer vibes or a neutral tall boot to embrace the crisp shifting of the seasons. A timeless leather jacket closes out the outfit in a way that screams casual and cool. In need of other options? Ruffle-adorned dresses aren’t reserved for summer rendezvous. In fact, these dresses make for the perfect foundational pieces of a transitional wardrobe. 

Color Palettes to Embrace Heading into Fall

Bright green has been the color of the summer, and this fall we are expanding the hues. Almost every shade of green was no stranger to the Fall 2024 runways and they deserve a spot in your closet too. Think earthy, olive, bright, and dull—green is the perfect pop of color to pair with neutrals and beyond. 


Speaking of neutrals, we’re seeing a range of grays, cream, and sesame that work well on their own and in unison. Don’t hesitate to choose a shoe that follows this neutral hue as it’ll serve as a way to pull together your outfit in the best way.

Shoes that Make the Switch: From Sandals to Booties

The Draper James fall collection features everything from platforms and heeled sandals to mules and boots. Our favorite? These kitten-heel slingbacks in suede keep the feeling of summer alive while subtly shifting into fall. Pair them with jeans or a dress to upgrade your typical summer sandal look. Or swap out your flip flops and opt for a pair of iconic loafers as you head out the door this chilly season. And as always, remember that with almost any autumn look, you can’t go wrong with a pair of booties that are both comfortable and fashionable. Talk about timeless fashion.

Shop Draper James Transitional Fashion

Back-to-school style, sporty chic football game fashion, romantic fall getaway looks—Draper James’ newest collection is your summer to fall style guide. Our fall lookbook is ready to be explored. Lean into this year’s seasonal trends by shopping Draper James.

Welcome to the Draper James blog. My little slice of space to share the things I love most about life: people, parties, food and fun! It’s everything Draper James stands for and I hope you like it. 

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Welcome to the Draper James blog. My little slice of space to share the things I love most about life: people, parties, food and fun! It’s everything Draper James stands for and I hope you like it. 

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST TO BE
THE FIRST TO KNOW ABOUT NEW ARRIVALS & EXCLUSIVE OFFERS!

WHAT WE'RE LOVING LATELY