We are on the verge of browner leaves and cooler air, yet the 80-plus degree weather lingers for a few more weeks. For some, it is the last few weeks of bliss. For others, it is the last few weeks of agony. I personally am ready to say goodbye to sweating through my grey t-shirt and hello to leggings and hoodies, but nobody asked for my opinion. Whether you are ready for it or not, however, the days of PSLs and layering are swiftly approaching. All that we can do now is say goodbye to summer lovin' and try to be prepared, and here are 10 must-haves for your preparation.
1. An endless supply of black leggings.
Consider hitting up Forever 21 for this one. You really can't have enough of them. They go with everything, keep you warm when it gets chilly, and are comfy as all get out. Buy them, love them, live in them.
2. Season neutral scarves.
Because you need something that's more lightweight than a wool winter scarf, but that will still keep your neck cozy. Also, try to avoid patterns that scream winter wonderland and instead choose ones that will still go with the summer clothes that you are phasing out under fall layers.
3. Cardigans on cardigans on cardigans.
You can't have too many. They can be just as essential to pulling your outfit together as they are practical, so take your time picking out the perfect ones to match your style. You're bound to have a few weeks where you need less than a jacket but more than a long sleeve shirt; enter cardigans.
4. Ankle booties.
As nice as it would be to wear flip flops year round, we Midwesterners don't have that luxury. Rest assured, though, because there are other ways to keep your feet covered without suffocating your dogs. Ankle height booties are stylish and can go with early-fall lightweight looks just as well as your almost-winter bundled up ensembles. Plus, they come in all colors and styles, so have fun with it!
5. Long sleeve V necks, because short sleeve ones are so last season.
These are a basic piece of your wardrobe, but they're arguably one of the most essential things to have. You can get these in all colors and layer them under all sorts of pattered cardigans and scarves. Just trust me, you will find use for them.
6. Sweater dresses: fall's t-shirt dresses.
The best part about these is that you can wear them in so many ways. When it's not as frigid, you can rock them with bare legs and the previously mentioned booties, but as it gets colder you can play around with different colored tights, jackets and scarves, as well. When it comes to the ways you can slay in a sweater dress, the limit does not exist.
7. Lightweight flannels.
8. Invest in a vest.
Not only is this a rising trend, but it's a sensible one. You're keeping your core warm without sweating like crazy, and there is pretty much a vest for every style. Let's face it, looking cute is the real factor to consider here. Staying warm is just a bonus.
9. Beanies aren't for weenies.
Your head deserves high fashion as well, and the perfect way to look casual and cool is by rocking the beanie. It perfectly equips the fall tones you're trying to show off and looks bomb with any haircut. Moral of the story: beanies=life.
10. The iconic jean jacket.
Thank you '90s for lending us this amazing trend. Jean jackets can go with hipster style, boho, or even snappy casual. They are a perfect addition to just about any look you are going for, and they can be casual or more dressy depending on the jacket. You probably only need one, but I won't judge you if you buy a few.
So now that you have your first 10 things on your fall shopping list, there is still room to get creative. You may need some other statement pieces depending on your style, but I promise the items listed above will not disappoint. You need to have your old stand-by items for every season, and these certainly don't fall far from the top of the list.
