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Is this a judgment-free zone? Because I’ve got a little secret.
I love organizing my closet. There’s something deeply peaceful about pulling out the summer racks and preparing for fall. It’s like rediscovering hidden gems and giving them new life. Living in NYC with all four seasons, I’ve mastered the art of transitional dressing when you want to look great and stay warm. And today, I am here to help you transition your summer clothes into fall with stylish, plus size approved outfit ideas and budget-friendly wardrobe tips!
So let’s talk about how to move your favorite summer pieces into your fall wardrobe without starting from scratch or spending a fortune. Yes babe, we’re layering, remixing, and most importantly, we’re making it fun.
Why Transitioning Is Key Especially for Plus Size Babes
Plus size fashion has so many options now thankfully. And we don’t have to rely solely on oversized sweaters and bulky coats when temperatures change. With the right layers and styling tricks, your summer staples can make stylish appearances in fall. Bonus you’ll save closet space, money, and stay fabulous.
Transition Your Summer Clothes Into Fall: Plus Size Edition: 5 Key Summer Pieces
Let’s explore the essentials you really shouldn’t pack away just yet.
1. Summer Dresses (Slip, Tank, Maxi & More)
Dresses are one of the easiest pieces to transition—just layer them.
How to style
- Pair a slip dress with a leather moto jacket and chunky sneakers or combat boots.
- Style a maxi dress with a cropped denim jacket and wide-brim hat for cozy cool.
- Layer a turtleneck under a tank dress, finish with ankle boots and a crossbody bag.
Expert Style Note
“Maxi dresses—especially in flowing fabrics and autumn-inspired shades like rust, mustard, and olive—continue to work beautifully in fall when paired with a cardigan or light jacket.”
(Real Simple)
2. Fashion Sandals
Still attached to your strappy sandals? Good. Just style them with intention.
How to style
- Wear neutral sandals with distressed jeans, a flowy blouse, and an oversized knit cardigan.
- Pair platform sandals with a printed midi dress and structured blazer for a work-to-weekend vibe.
Avoid bright neons or overtly summery patterns. Stick to earth tones, black, or metallics for seamless seasonal transition.
Expert Style Note
“Even as summer fades, pieces with delicate textures such as lace-trimmed skirts or shorts can bridge into early fall, and styling them with chunkier layers makes them feel seasonally appropriate.”
(Marie Claire)
3. Cropped Jeans and Pants
Let your ankles breathe. Cropped jeans are endlessly versatile when styled correctly.
How to style
- Pair high-rise cropped jeans with a chunky knit sweater, blazer, and printed booties.
- On warmer fall days, layer with a longline vest or duster jacket.
Expert Style Note
“Lightweight knits are ideal layering pieces for transitional weather. They’re perfect over cropped denim or paired with trousers—especially when temperatures are unpredictable.”
(Marie Claire)
4. Summer Tops: Tanks, Camis, and Graphic Tees
Honestly, don’t pack any of these up. Summer tops are layering MVPs. I honestly don’t put any of the summer tops away. They are on the easiest pieces to bring through all seasons. Tank tops, camisoles, and T-shirts can all be worn with layering. These tops add a pop of color, personality, and texture to your look.
How to style
- Layer a graphic tee under a slip dress or pair with a tulle skirt and bomber jacket.
- Slip camisoles under cardigans or dusters with wide-leg trousers.
- Style tank tops under blazers for a clean transitional look.
Styling tip: Use textures like lace, velvet, or denim to add depth to layered looks.
Expert Style Note
“Silky scarves are one of fall’s hottest accessories—and they’re incredibly versatile: wear them as belts, hair accents, or tie them to your bag to elevate summer separates into fall ensembles.”
(Marie Claire)
5. Mini Skirts and Shorts
Absolutely, your summer skirts and shorts can stay active, just bring in fall flair. Those leather shorts that you didn’t get a chance to wear this summer, it’s time to bring them out. This looks is super stylish and chic.
How to style
- Wear your plus size leather shorts with a chunky knit sweater, opaque tights, and knee-high boots.
- Pair mini skirts with a turtleneck bodysuit and thigh-high boots. Top with a trench or long coat for added drama.
Expert Style Note
“Beachwear transitions beautifully into fall. Lightweight scarves work as a chic third piece, and crochet ponchos or one-pieces double effectively as layering staples.”
(Marie Claire)
Layering Is the Secret Weapon
Layering is more than practical. It’s your creativity unlocked.
Play with mixed textures like leather, cotton, knits. Try unexpected combos like tees under dresses or shorts with coats. Use belted layers to define your shape.
A layered look adds visual interest, warmth, and personal style.
Color Swaps to Elevate Your Palette
Color transitions can infuse life into fall looks. A fashion editor shares trendy swaps for this season:
- Butter Yellow → Mustard
- Cherry Red → Rich Maroon
- Black → Chocolate Brown
- Blood Orange → Pumpkin
- Lilac → Royal Purple
- Olive → Grass Green
Let’s Talk
These five key transitional pieces are essential to bring into your fall wardrobe. A lot of our summer clothes can have a longer shelf life! How are you working to transition your summer clothes into fall fashion?
What summer pieces are you holding onto this fall? Do you remix your seasonal wardrobe or start fresh? Drop your favorite layering trick in the comments or tag us on Instagram @thecurvyfashionista so we can all be inspired.
Can’t what to hear from ya’ll. Happy Shopping!
