"BEFORE IT ALL FALLS" — Queen Size Magazine

Here we are closing in on the end of summer already, and it feels like this year is flying right on by. It's definitely evident where we are in the year, as we look up and school supply isles are constructed, back to school sales have commenced, and the pressures of what to wear in the office are again at an all-time high. As the warm days of summer look towards giving way to cooler fall temperatures, transitioning your wardrobe to "back to school and work" while still very much in the heat of summer, can be both exciting and practical, with a smidge of "it’s too hot to dress up!" Remember to always go with what makes you feel most comfortable while still adjusting to your environment. The fashion powers that be may say one thing, but Mother Nature in different parts of the world, will always trump an excerpt from "What to Wear".

Begin by incorporating layers, such as lightweight cardigans or denim jackets to what we would wear in summer, to stay comfortable as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, but still appropriate for the setting. This will help your body as well as your pocketbook, by utilizing what you already have as part of a look. Swap out summer's bright, airy fabrics for richer textures like flannel, suede, and knits, never going wrong with denim of course. This will offer both warmth and visual appeal to your entire transition. Earth tones and jewel colors like rust, burgundy, and emerald, green can add a touch of fall to your look while still allowing for pops of your favorite summer hues through accessories. Go ahead and go stir crazy with the white for all of the parties and brunches possible, if you're the "can't wear white after Labor Day" type. Introduce ankle boots, closed-toe shoes, and heels and sandals with texture in place of just regular sandals and slides to keep your feet cozy as you transition. Consider mixing summer staples like dresses and shorts with fall essentials like tights and long-sleeved tops to really make the most of your efforts during this in between time.

Finally, don't forget to experiment with layering different patterns and textures to add dimension to your outfits, making the shift from summer to fall a seamless and stylish experience. Depending on where you live, this could be the space where you dwell for quite a bit more time than others, so in all your efforts, try to keep it fun, fashionable and hassle free.