Summer to Fall Wardrobe Upcycling Hacks to Jump On

Love it or hate it: fall is here. I love the change in seasons for many reasons, but at the top of the list is definitely the chance to explore more wardrobe options and mix things up a bit.

I’m all for sweater-weather-loving, but I’m also not quite ready to pack away some of my favorite summer dresses just yet.

Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to upcycle your summer wardrobe favorites as we head into colder weather. Here are a few of my go-to style hacks:

1. Add a knitted vest.

A couple of years ago, I would have said ew to a knitted sweater vest, but I’m loving this trend hard - and it works with so many options: over a linen shirt? Tick! Plain Tee? Tick! A mini, midi, or maxi dress? TICK!

Keeping you snug during the day, throw on an oversized blazer for those cooler evenings to stay warm and look bang on trend. Opt for one in a vibrant color or geometric print to hold onto those summer vibes for as long as you can.

2. Pair chunky loafers & ankle socks.

Chunky loafers aren’t leaving us just yet and while going sockless with your denim or dresses over summer was a whole vibe, it’s time to keep those ankles warm - and ankle socks are the way to go.

Opt for plain white or neutral colors for a contemporary, low-key look or patterned, lacy pairs if you want to make a real statement.

3. Opt for blazers with shorts.

If you’re not ready to put away those chic shorts yet and the weather is still permitting, you can upcycle your look for fall by simply throwing a blazer over your looks. 

An oversized style works great if you can match your blazer hem to the length of your shorts, but equally, feel free to mix things up. Keep accessories minimal, and you can easily get a little more longevity out of short weather this season.

4. Go thigh-high in sheers. 

Hayley Bieber well and truly put this trend on our radar when she stepped out in an uber stylish cut-out blazer dress with thigh-high sheers - and I’ve seen the style emulated by fashion influencers the world over.

This is another easy upcycle look for shorts and summer dresses as we transition through fall and could easily be paired with some of the other upcycle hacks mentioned above.

5. Jump on some trench coat love.

Trench coats never go out of fashion and are the perfect transitional piece. If you’re like me, you might have one or two hiding in the back of the wardrobe, and it’s definitely time to dig them out!

Again, throw one over your summer dresses, linen shirts, or other summer wears, and grab your favorite ankle boots for an instant fall aesthetic. For an instant upgrade on the trend, consider investing in a (faux) leather version for an upgrade on the trend.

6. Learn the art of layering.

As we speed towards full-blown winter weather, now is an excellent time to start thinking more strategically about how you can layer pieces to stay warm and maximize your wardrobe.

A tank under a shirt with a knitted vest on top is a good starting point - it’s an easy leap to add a winter coat and scarf. Similarly, a tee under a favorite dress sets the layered scene - ready to add a jumper and jacket as things get colder.

Thinking about this now will also help you prep your wardrobe and learn which pieces will work well for layering up and which ones need to be packed away until we say hello to warmer days.

Find Your Fall Style

Whether you’re upcycling, recycling, or looking for a new signature style - Fall is the perfect chance to get a bit experimental and find what works for you.

There are heaps of places to draw inspiration from, and if you need a helping hand putting it all together, Fashivly can definitely help. 

With style guides that incorporate your existing pieces and provide a fool-proof plan on how to maximize them to meet your style goals, a new season is a perfect chance to discover your new look.

- Elaine Mead