Six Ways to Update Your Summer Wardrobe for Fall

Summer’s strappy wedge sandals don’t have to be retired just because there’s a slight chill in the air. Simply pair bright, fashion socks, like the ASOS Slinky Over-the-Knee Socks pictured above, with strappy sandals in a contrasting color to get more use out of your favorite summer footwear and gain ultimate street-style cred. Just be sure to keep the white gym socks for your workouts, lest you veer into dad-on-a-Florida-vacation-territory. ($8.62, asos.com)

Not quite ready to store your summer dresses? While black opaque tights are a must-have staple for fall and beyond, brightly colored ones allow you to get more use out of your breezy dresses. Remember less is more: keep your dress and accessories simple; let your tights do all the talking. Hot colors for fall include mustard, poppy-red, or teal. ($14, AmericanApparel.net)

Capri pants can suit the office just as well as the clambake when you pair it with a turtleneck or cozy sweater and heels. The cuffed ankle creates a tailored look, perfect for fall’s structured styles. ($118, jcrew.com)

Rather than adopt the dark, Tim Burton-y floral motifs seen on Giambattista Valli and Miu Miu fall runways, just pair your summer floral top with neutral knits and accessories to keep vivid color alive well into winter. Old Navy’s bright pop of color against a cozy oatmeal sweater is the perfect transitional outfit. ($24.94, OldNavy.com)

If you think breezy maxis say “margarita” more than “mulled wine,” layering chunky knits over the bohemian dresses makes them more appropriate for chilly weather. Try Helmut Lang’s draped jersey maxi skirt, Bally’s cable-knit sweater, and some kick-butt boots for a cozy-yet-luxe outfit idea. (Maxi skirt, $230; Cable-knit sweater, $695; Net-a-Porter.com)

What’s the point of an “investment” swimsuit if you can’t use it more than three months a year? Throw fashion rules to the wind and pair DKNY’s elegant one-shoulder bathing suit with super-slouchy palazzo pants and a blazer. The result? St. Tropez-chic that works in the boardroom too. ($108, LordandTaylor.com)