By Kerri Winick, GalTime.com
Gwen Stefani rocks shorts and tights...you can, too! (PR Photos)The thought of filling my closet with cozy fall clothes sends a shiver up my spine. (And probably my husband's, but only out of fear that I'll max out the credit card!)
Here's the thing: I'm not ready to pack away my summer clothes just yet.
The good news? With a few style tricks up your (long) sleeve, Fashion Stylist Colin T. McDonald says warm weather favorites can easily pull double duty.
Shorts: Classic patterns and neutral or darker color work best. Slip your favorite pair over opaque tights, patterned tights, or leggings for a crisp, fall look. Layer a silky blouse and blazer for added style and warmth.
Related: 6 Stylish Ways to Rock a Leather Jacket
Brightly Colored Pants: Colorblocking is still front and center, so think about pairing your summer brights with neutrals like black, tan, or navy. Turn up the volume with a forest green or trendy oxblood sweater and a fur vest.
Maxi Skirts/Dresses: Flowy favorites flow right into fall with a blazer, cardigan, or denim jacket, and floral patterns look fabulous with leather. For something unexpected, turn that dress into a "skirt" with a light sweater or button-down shirt/scarf combo. Throw on a leopard belt for some texture.
Sleeveless Blouses: The possibilities are endless: drapey cardigans, blazers, and motorcycle jackets rule, and a tailored suit is office-appropriate. If you're wearing a shell, try kicking things up a notch with a collar necklace. And for a totally trendy look, go for a cover-up that's brocade, metallic, or sequin.
White Jeans: Throw your fashion rules out the window! Pure white looks right with a navy sweater, printed scarf, faux-fur vest, leather jacket, or knee-high riding boots. For a crisp, head-to-toe look, try a white top on for size, and never underestimate the power of a classic black/white combo. If you're uncomfortable with stark summer whites, stick with cream or winter white.
Related: InJEANious Denim Trends For Fall
Peplum Tops: Peplum isn't one and done! Pair your favorite peplum top with heavier fall trousers, fitted skinny jeans, or knee-length skirts. Swap out strappy sandals for closed-toe pumps or peep-toes.
A few more things to keep in mind:
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Wide leg jeans look casual cool with fitted, plaid button downs.
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Light, leather handbags are striking when paired with rich, dark hues.
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One-piece jumpsuits survive another season with a solid-colored cardi or blazer.
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The bra-top trend that we saw over the spring and summer doesn't make the cut. You can also store linen, neoprene, and terry cloth pieces.
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Get creative! Nine out of ten times you can extend the life of a summer staple with some simple layering.
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- 3 Makeup Trends To Try NOW
- Fall's Mani Must-Haves
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- 8 Stylish Slip-Ons For Fall
