The Challenges of Dressing for Autumn

Deciding what to wear to work can be trying on any given morning but perhaps even more so at this time of year. In many regions, temperatures can vary throughout the day, and even in places that are still very warm, summer outfits often don’t feel “right” when the calendar reads late September.

According to experts, one key to looking great in autumn is transitioning. Start by putting away your most obvious “hot weather” clothes – the styles, fabrics, and colors that scream “summer.” As Julie Judd of Stylewise by Julie says, “I don't care if it’s 80 degrees, you need to be done with your straw handbag and sundresses unless the sundress has some fall colors and you can wear a brown or black cardigan over it.”

With remaining pieces, try adding some seasonal color. “The quickest way to transition to fall this year is to add something burgundy/cordovan/claret-colored,” says Chris Hauri, founder of Mirror Image – an image and identity consultancy that gives workshops for women over 50 in the Chicagoland area. (Judd notes that navy and mustard also are popular this season.) Scarves, belts, shoes, bags, and tights are simple ways to bring these shades into your outfits.

One thing not to do, however, is rush the season. While you may be dying to wear your great new boots, they will look (and feel) better in late fall/early winter than during a time period known for still having its share of warm days.

Instead, dress in layers of lightweight fabrics to deal with fickle weather -- a strategy that also has the benefit of looking professional. “Three pieces make an outfit, so add that navy blazer, print cardigan, or tweed cropped jacket to your blouse and pants or skirt and you'll look much more buttoned up,” Hauri says.

Image courtesy of Thinkstock/Jupiterimages.