It’s that time of year again. Summer is winding down and everyone is wishing for cooler, more relaxed fall days that call for boots, scarves, and pumpkin spice lattes. The summer is always a whirlwind – I’m usually in denial when May rolls around that it will go so fast, but by the beginning of September I always ask myself, “where did summer go?!”. This summer in particular was especially significant with the amount of life changes I experienced (I am calling it my “quarter life crisis”), but I have recently realized that change is not necessarily a bad thing. As humans, we are naturally resistant to change – we get comfortable in our lives and each time we forget what it’s like to face change. Since most of the time we are forced into these times of transition, I have decided that I need to consciously try to be positive through it all. For me, mantras like “I am strong” and “everything happens for a reason” propel me forward in a deep murky sea of change, and I think it’s working this time.

Looking back on my wardrobe choices this summer, I incorporated a lot of my natural eclectic style into my style posts. I mainly started with a classically neutral base and added a flare of vintage or, conversely, a modern aesthetic. I’ve been playing with more modern looks in these past few weeks, trying to figure out the best combination of statement necklaces, bright tops, graphic tees, and different prints and patterns. It’s fun to see how separate pieces that when put together can create entirely different and unique looks – it’s almost like working on little puzzles. With new and old fall fashion styles quickly emerging, here are a couple tips to take with you into the new season:

1. Don’t be afraid to mix prints. Taking two pieces that have completely different patterns (polka dots + stripes, stripes + floral, tartan + leopard, the list goes on…) is a great way to transition your summer wardrobe to fall.

2. Be creative with what you have. It can be so tempting to forget about what you have in your closet (although sometimes it becomes very necessary to purge) and buy all the newest trends in fashion. Instead, try purchasing 2-3 key pieces for fall and incorporate some of your favorite things you already have, including those items that have been pushed to the depths of your closet…

3. Don’t forget to accessorize. A simple statement necklace or a silk scarf can jazz up a t-shirt and jeans if you’re looking for an easy and chic way to stay comfortable all day. This trick comes in handy for me at the office pretty regularly!

4. Take risks! This is a great time of year to play with layered looks (dresses, tights, boots, scarves, sweaters, oh my!), so don’t forget to have fun with what you have – you never know if something will work until you give it a try!

xo,
Jackietara