We are all familiar with the various pressures that come with the beginning of a fall semester. New classes, new people, and new weather. Fresh off the press of a hot summer, a new fall semester allows us to re-enter our university environment with new confidence, and for many, a new wardrobe.
If you’re anything like me however, the idea of cultivating a cold-weather wardrobe is equally as stressful as it is exciting (especially if you’re a student in a place prone to intense weather like Chicago or New York.)
In need of some serious cold-weather counsel? Don’t be too quick to pack away your favorite mini skirts. Below, I lay out a list of easy ways to help you transition your wardrobe with the changing of the leaves on the trees; all without breaking the bank. From stocking up on basic button downs to finding ways to play with your favorite summer pieces, I hope the following tips encourage you to take on your fall semester in warmth and stylish self-confidence.
01. Stock up on neutral long sleeve button downs.
There is nothing more versatile than a button-down blouse. Perfect for slipping over a swimmy in the summer, this wardrobe staple can also be layered underneath a wooly sweater or paired with your favorite leather jacket for added warmth in the cooler months.
H&M Cotton Poplin Shirt
Available for $13.
Zara Linen Shirt With Pockets
Available for $46.
Aritzia Wilfred Free Boyfriend Linen Shirt
Available for $88.
Lulu's Casual Conversations Ivory Striped Button-Up Long Sleeve Top
Available for $54.
02. Invest in one or two pairs of perfectly fit jeans.
One never feels more powerful than in a pair of perfectly fit jeans. Whether you prefer a straight leg weathered look or a 70s inspired flare leg pant, one or two pairs of well-fit denim pants are an essential that can travel easily between summer and fall.
Zara High Rise Flared Slim Fit Z1975 Jeans
Available for $50.
Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Dad Jean
Available for $99.
Old Navy Higher High-Waisted Flare Jeans
Available for $45.
Loft Petite High Rise Kick Crop Jeans
Available for $90.
03. Keep your go-to mini skirts at the front of your closet.
Instead of tucking your favorite mini skirts in a box, hidden from sight until next summer rolls around, I suggest finding new ways to incorporate them into your fall wardrobe. Pair the skirts below with sheer black stockings and a basic turtleneck for a timeless and classic look.
Urban Revivo Chain Detail Pleated Skirt
Available for $49.
Zara Textured Weave Mini Skirt
Available for $60.
Boohoo Boucle Mini Skirt
Available for $45.
Forever 21 Pleated Plaid Mini Skirt
Available for $15.
Francesca's Liza Front Slit Faux Snake Mini Skirt
Available for $54.
04. Turn to wide-leg trousers – always.
Breezy enough to keep you cool in the summer, but chic enough to pair with a sweater or a blazer in the fall, terrifically tailored trousers are the perfect pants to invest in for a transitional wardrobe.
J.Ing White Straight Leg Suit Pants
Available for $25.
Nasty Gal Tailored High Waisted Wide Leg Pants
Available for $84.
Silk and Salt Roxanne Tailored Trousers
Available for $58.
Boohoo Puddle Hem Pinstripe Wide Leg Pants
Available for $60.
05. Buy into a collection of versatile tights.
No need to worry – these are not your 4th grade ballet tights. Equally charming as they are versatile, these sheer black tights are perfect for keeping your legs warm (and classy) under a mini skirt and your go to boots.
ASOS Design Mini Dot Tights
Available for $12.
Forever 21 Sheer Striped Tights
Available for $7.
Tilly's Full Tilt Floral Tights
Available for $10.
Dolls Kill It Takes Two Rhinestone Tights
Available for $10.
06. Use your sleeveless tank tops as an extra layer for especially chilly days.
Though the tank tops below are all white, you can use any of your easy-to-wear summer tanks as an added layer under your fall sweaters. Not to mention, slipping on a tank can prevent any skin irritation from your potentially itchy vintage knit!
H&M Rib-Knit Sweater Vest
Available for $13.
Forever 21 Pointelle Knit Cropped Cami
Available for $10.
Banana Republic Factory Ribbed Scoop-Neck Tank
Available for $30.
Old Navy V-Neck Rib-Knit Sweater Tank Top
Available for $30.
07. That cardigan you slip on over your shoulders during a cool evening on the beach? Pair it with your favorite boots for a classic look.
Not quite ready to do away with your go-to summer cardy? Match your favorite button-down knit with your most comfortable jeans and sneakers for a casual fall look.
Boohoo Pointelle Cropped Cardigan
Available for $40.
H&M Rib-Knit Cardigan
Available for $20.
Forever 21 Ribbed Knit Cardigan Sweater
Available for $25.
Zara Ribbed Knit Jacket
Available for $46.
Feature Image Via @celabacellar.
