Around the time Halloween cobwebs and spiders are swapped for Thanksgiving wreaths and Christmas lights, people in states like California face a crisis. They meditate on such questions like
Is it okay to wear a fur-trimmed insulated Northface jacket if it's 60 degrees outside?
In their panic-stricken state, residents of cities like Phoenix and Los Angeles tend to leave their abode either ready to camp out in the Transantarctic Mountains or go on a summer tour guide in the Grand Canyon.
Fortunately, there is a cure to the madness that seeps into the wardrobes of those living in semi-cold climates: Layers!
Below are five ways you can incorporate your favorite summer essentials like skirts and crop tops into traditional fall ensembles.
1) Skirt + Tights/Socks
Just because the outside temperature is cold enough for hot cocoa doesn't mean you have to store away all your American Apparel skirts for the next three months. Keep your legs warm by pairing those high-waisted skirts with tights or knee-length socks. You can go crazy with plaid-patterned tights like the Nasty Gal model pictured above, or opt for a more classic look with brown riding boots and knitted socks peeking above your boots.
2) Crop Tops + Jacket
Not ready to say farewell to all your Brandy Melville crop tops? Save your adieus because you can get away with your belly button peeking even in December. Crop tops are a fun way to play with proportion if you pair them with a maxim skirt that sits at the waist like on the Forever 21 model above, or even with your go-to high-rise jeans. Make sure to layer a jacket over your cropped shirt to keep warm; the more oversized it is, the better!
3) Dramatic Coat + Casual Outfit
This style is perfect for those of you envious of the sleek streetwear that graces London's cobblestone streets after August. While you may think that mimicking European winter wear in temparatures that barely go under 60 will elicit laughs and strange sideglances, this is not so. Oversized coats like collared coats, trench coats, and the long sleeve maxi duster coat worn on the Missguided model above are chic, not overdone, when layered on top of a casual outfit like ripped skinnies and a plain tee. Make sure to wear heels like in the picture above to prevent the coat from drowning you out! The dramatic coats are also great for keeping warm in professional settings.
4) Faux Fur + Wide Brim Hat
Faux fur is a closet staple for bohemian gals mourning over the bygone July days of fringed shorts and crochet rompers. A big furry coat like on the Missguided model above will act as a snuggly blanket protecting you against the chilly forces outside, while still allowing you to flaunt your free spirit and avante-garde fashion. A black wide brim hat completes your rock-n-roll, yet sensible, look.
5) Long Sleeves + Long Sleeves
Tired of wearing the same sweater and coat combination, but not sure how else to keep warm? Layer three thin long sleeve shirts on one another of varying textures and cuff lengths. You can even do this with two tops and finish the outfit with a light jacket, like the bomber jackets worn on the LF Stores models above.