Style Guide: Summer to Fall Transition

With the days getting shorter, it’s almost time to say goodbye to summer and embrace the best of fall fashion. While crop tops and beachy maxis can be packed away for next year, transitioning into autumn doesn’t have to involve a complete wardrobe overhaul. Pairing a few on-trend pieces with your existing staples can easily bring you up to speed and prepare you for fall’s most anticipated trends. This season, we’re introduced to a new colour palette filled with shades of grey, rich jewel tones and high-contrast black and white pairings. Take a look at some of the key trends and must-have pieces for the summer to fall transition season.

Oversized

One of the most notable trends for fall/winter 2013 is oversized outerwear. Thanks to designers like Céline, Carven and Alexander Wang, roomy coats and thick, chunky knits are a go-to choice for cooler days.

While transitioning from summer to fall, bundle up with Toronto-based DylaniumKnits’ fall line of statement accessories in burgundy, cream and black. “My absolute favourite piece is a super heavy long scarf with fringe on either end,” says designer Dylan Uscher. “It’s huge, creates such a statement and help keeps the wearer very warm. This particular wool works on everyone.”

For a casual yet luxe look, opt for Seattle-based designer Paychi Guh’s Two Way Cozy Cardigan in a versatile geometric print, which can easily be paired with Fluevog ankle booties and a Franco Vernica Milano Leather Tote.

1. Paychi Guh Two Way Cozy Cardigan 2. DylaniumKnits Rowen Mobius Scarf 3. Franco Vernica Milano Leather Tote 4. Fluevog Garden of Enjoyment Ankle Booties

Punk Accents

Coinciding with the Met’s Costume Institute punk exhibit, designers like Givenchy, Rodarte and Moschino have shown the fashion world the chic side of plaid, leather and punk-inspired embellishments. If you’re not ready to go all out with grommets and studs, try to subtly incorporate punk elements into your wardrobe with leather accents and mixed metal accessories. Seattle-based Joanna Morgan’s Talisman collection serves up bold Krystallino rings in brass and sterling silver that can complement a plaid statement skirt.

1. Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Tartan Leopard Arena Skirt 2. Joanna Morgan Designs Krystallino ring 3. Givenchy Obsedia Leather Shoulder Bag 4. Alice and Olivia Weston Straight Skirt With Buckle

Layering

Practical and chic, layering is a no-brainer for autumn. This season, multi-length pieces layered the right way can create an effortlessly cool ensemble. ”When you transition from snowy streets to hot bar or restaurants I would love you to be wearing one of my silk separates under that coat,” says New York City-based designer Alex Koutny. In unpredictable weather, start with a base that’s versatile, such as a washed silk black tank. Complete the look by layering a pair of Skinny Sweats’ leggings with a tunic and a Mackage leather motto jacket.

1. Skinny Sweats Arrowhead leggings
2. Mackage for Aritzia Paula Jacket 3. Alex Koutny Lo Tank

Black & White

Black and white combinations have been trending all year and are still going strong for fall/winter 2013. Update the look this fall by opting for a black and white dress in a geometric print, such as a Pink Tartan Hexagon Dress. For a menswear-inspired look, embrace a tuxedo style ensemble by pairing Joeleen Torvick’s black and white shirt with an on-trend pair of tuxedo pants by Skinny Sweats.

1. Skinny Sweats Tuxedo sweats 2. Pink Tartan Hexagon Dress 3. Philip Lim 3.1 x Target black and white dress 4. Joeleen Torvick Black and White shirt

Article written by Julia Eskins.

Julia Eskins is a Toronto-based writer and features editor at FAJO Magazine. You can follow her on Twitter at @juliaeskins