When the heat hasn’t quite left, but you're ready to trade in your brights for something a little cozier, summer to fall transition outfits are the answer. This in-between season is the perfect excuse to layer, mix textures, and also play with richer color palettes - without committing to full-on sweaters just yet.

From moody florals to earthy tones like chocolate brown and forest green, here’s how to build outfits that move with the weather and your mood.

✦ Summer to Fall Transition Outfits: Fall-Forward Tank Tops

Tank tops aren’t just for summer - they’re perfect for outfit layering and staying cool during warm fall afternoons. The key is choosing tanks in autumn-inspired colors and richer textures. Think deep chocolate brown, navy, olive, muted rust, and dark teal. Sleeveless sweater tanks are especially great this time of year, offering the cozy look of fall without the bulk.

Style Ideas:

• Pair a chocolate brown ribbed sweater tank with light-wash denim and then add loafers

• Tuck a navy high-neck sweater tank into a printed midi skirt for a polished office outfit

• Layer a dark green or olive tank under a beige cardigan or cropped jacket

• Go monochrome with a dark blue tank and navy wide-leg pants

• Then add gold jewelry and a structured bag to dress it up

These tanks are incredibly versatile - wear them solo now and layer them later as temps start to dip.

SHOP THE LOOK: RACHEL TANK & BLACK BUTTON-UP KNIT TANK & VERA BLACK FLARE MINI SKIRT

✦ Summer to Fall Transition Outfits: Moody Floral Dresses

Florals are a year-round staple, and they transition beautifully when you choose prints with a moodier feel. Look for dresses with black, burgundy, navy, or deep green backgrounds and floral patterns in gold, rust, or rose tones.

Styling Tips:

• Add a denim jacket or cropped cardigan for cooler mornings

• Wear ankle boots instead of sandals to edge the look toward fall

• Layer with a belt and structured tote for a polished office outfit

SHOP THE LOOK: MADELINE BURGUNDY FLORAL MIDI DRESS

✦ Add Texture with Lightweight Layers

Even on warm days, light layers add visual interest and help bridge the seasonal gap. Think denim jackets, breezy knit cardigans, or even mesh long-sleeve tops layered under dresses or tanks.

Try These Combos:

• Sleeveless dress + longline cardigan + mules

• Tank + mesh layering top + wide-leg jeans

• Midi skirt + cropped denim vest + ankle boots

SHOP THE LOOK: ELEANOR DARK WASH DENIM RUFFLE VEST & MARIAH CREAM DENIM PANTS

✦ Bottoms That Work Both Seasons

Your shorts may be ready for storage, but wide-leg pants, midi skirts, and also lightweight trousers are just getting started. Choose neutral tones like camel, khaki, or stone, or you can also go bold with dark olive and burnt orange.

Easy Outfit Formulas:

• Puff sleeve blouse + camel trousers + mules

• Ribbed knit top + printed midi skirt + sneakers

• Graphic tank + wide-leg jeans + belt bag

SHOP THE LOOK: JENNA OLIVE WIDE LEG PANTS & ASHTON BEIGE FLARED TANK TOP

✦ Summer to Fall Transition Outfits: Color Palette Guide

The quickest way to transition your wardrobe is through color. Replace your bright pinks and neons with deeper, richer hues that feel right for autumn.

Seasonal Color Favorites:

• Chocolate brown

• Deep navy blue

• Olive and forest green

• Dusty rose

• Burnt orange

• Mustard yellow

• Burgundy and wine tones

✦ Your Go-To Summer to Fall Essentials

Here’s a bullet list of must-haves for your summer to fall transition outfits:

• ✅ Tank tops in chocolate brown, navy, olive, and dark teal

• ✅ Moody floral print dresses (sleeveless or short sleeve)

• ✅ Lightweight cardigans and cropped denim jackets

• ✅ Mesh or sheer long sleeves for layering

• ✅ Wide-leg pants and midi skirts

• ✅ Ankle boots, loafers, or closed-toe mules

• ✅ Neutral crossbody bags or structured totes

✦ Falling Into Style

With just a few smart swaps and stylish layers, your summer to fall transition outfits will carry you seamlessly through changing temps and also shifting vibes. Rich colors, breathable fabrics, and layered textures will also keep you feeling comfortable - and looking totally in season.

✨ Need more outfit inspo? Check out our New Arrivals for the latest pieces perfect for your summer to fall transition outfits.

Tag us in your transition looks on Instagram @lizardthicketboutique