The period between the end of summer and the beginning of fall may be brief, but it still requires a thoughtful approach to style. One day might call for a minidress with elevated flip-flops, and the next could require a lightweight jacket, trousers, and closed-toe flats. Mastering transitional dressing is the key to navigating these changing temperatures seamlessly.
After more than six years of working in fashion, I’ve learned the trick isn’t necessarily having more clothes. It’s knowing which pieces can carry you through the temperature shift, many of which you can borrow from your summer and fall wardrobes. To get a fresh perspective on what that looks like this season, I tapped two insiders: Mandy Lee, fashion and trend analyst and TJ Maxx and Marshalls trend expert, and Erin Walsh, celebrity stylist and TJ Maxx and Marshalls style expert. While I don’t want to give away everything they shared just yet, one thing I will divulge is that you should prepare for one big shift—saying goodbye to quiet luxury and a minimalist way of dressing.
“We are entering a more maximalist space,” Lee tells Who What Wear. “[Fashion] has been leaning very simple and structured, and that’s great. It has given people a big chance to find their basics and everyday items; however, now, we will see people really get in touch with their personal styles and add personality to their looks.” This renewed emphasis on personal style will show up not just in silhouettes but also in color. Lee anticipates chartreuse, earthy green, and different tones of blue will be everywhere. “I would keep your eye on purple too,” she says.
Keep scrolling to discover more insights from Lee as well as Walsh and then shop our favorite fashion finds for the season ahead.
Meet the Experts
Mandy Lee
Fashion and Trend Analyst and TJ Maxx and Marshalls Trend Expert
Erin Walsh
Celebrity Stylist and TJ Maxx and Marshalls Style Expert
Summer-to-Fall Capsule-Wardrobe Shopping Tips, According to Walsh
What are the key pieces every fashion person should have in their summer-to-fall wardrobe?
It depends on who you are, what you need in your life, what your days look like, and what roles you’re playing. That said, I think you need a killer pair of jeans and a transitional jacket or sweater that starts injecting some of those warmer textures like wool and cashmere into your wardrobe.
What are your favorite styling techniques for navigating the transitional season?
I love adding a thin turtleneck under a shirt. I also love elevating basics with statement jewelry and belts. If I’m going to invest in something new for fall, I will look for new shoes that feel grounded, such as a chunky boot or loafer, or something fresh that will cinch the waist.
How would you recommend transitioning summer dresses into a fall-ready wardrobe?
I would throw an oversize denim jacket on top and style it with a slouchy sock and a chunky boot.
What denim silhouettes and trends do you think are worth investing in this year?
I love a high-waisted, structured trouser denim style—something that feels very ’70s inspired. I also love a sleek pair of straight-leg, high-waisted jeans. However, for the weekends, if you want to feel very relaxed, a pair of baggy jeans is the way to go.
What color trends are you excited about for fall?
Mustard yellow, burgundy, deep teal, and olive. All the rust tones too.
You’ve worked with TJ Maxx and Marshalls for quite some time now. What makes them great destinations for summer-to-fall shopping?
The pieces you’ll find are versatile and timeless. It’s not like because it worked last season, it won’t work next season. Also, you never have to compromise. You will always find options that are valuable, luxurious, and elevated without having to compromise your budget.
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