By Gretta Monahan
As summer nears its inevitable end (say it isn’t so!), it’s just about time to get excited for cozy sweaters, cute booties, darker lipsticks and everything else fall fashion.
But don’t throw on that heavy wool poncho quite yet: We still have that transitional style season between now and autumn — meaning clothes that will get you through the final hot days of summer and also prepare you for the crisp, cooler fall. Here are a few staple pieces that you can rock right now and on through October.
Duster coats: When the breeze starts to pick up and a lightweight jacket becomes necessary, a duster coat is a perfect go-to. These beautiful coats can be paired with practically any outfit, from a casual two-piece set to a sexy date-night dress, and it’ll complete your outfit and keep you on-point in both seasons. One of my faves: This long maxi duster coat in a khaki that transitions as smoothly as any hue from season to season.
Thigh-high boots: A must-have right now, since they give you the luxury of wearing a short dress or a pair of high-waisted shorts while still having your legs covered. (Not to mention they’re adorable!) I love Jeffrey Campbell’s “Perouze” Over the Knee boots, they come in either black or a soft and sumptuous grey suede.
Turtleneck tanks: These are truly the best of both worlds; you get the fashion and warmth that a turtleneck offers but a cool twist thanks to the sleeveless-ness. They come in everything from silk and satin with netting to sweater knits — or try one from Sabo Skirt, in a beautiful hazel-colored polyester that keeps it extra light. (Note the tie in the back so you can show a little more skin, should the mood strike you.)
Off-the-shoulder anything: This style just gets hotter and hotter as the summer comes to an end. They show off sun-kissed shoulders, but you can also find them long-sleeved, so they’re fall-ready. It’s also a versatility thing: For example, Peter Pilotto’s swingy Pallas top is a great pick, since it’s as fetching with a dark denim as it is with a long feminine skirt and boots.
Then there are highly functional bags that go anywhere and do almost anything, like the Chloe Kurtis bag. It’s new for the designer, and in a flat out gorgeous wine color that goes from summer into fall with ease.
