The Do’s and Don’ts of Fall Fashion

The cooler weather is coming and that means it's time to pack up the shorts and tank tops and get ready for fall, but you don't have to pack up everything.

I always have a hard time picking out outfits this time of year. The mornings are cool so you incorporate a sweater into your outfit for the day, but the afternoons can still be warm and humid so about lunchtime you're regretting your choice. Here are a few suggestions to help get you through the transition period.

If you wear suits and the like into the office, on a chilly morning, put on the black pants and matching blazer, but wear a lightweight blouse in a bright color and throw on a tissue weight black scarf when you head out in the morning. If if gets warm in the afternoon, you can always take off the blazer and tie the scarf on your bag.

When you're shopping for a fall coat, the classic trench can't be beat, but put a twist on it. Get a trench in a bright color like purple and see if you can find one with a quilted pattern, a ruffle trim or a printed lining. Speaking of ruffles, if you have a nice tailored black suit with a heavier weight fabric, put on a bright colored fitted blouse with a ruffle trim so you still look office appropriate, but will stay comfortable when the temperature is warm in the afternoon.

If you're still in dress mode, pair it up with shiny black tights. It makes the outfit look expensive. If you're wearing a cap sleeve or sleeveless dress to work, pair it with a fun jacket (not a blazer) you can always take off to make it more comfortable with the warmer temps.

If you have a brightly colored tunic or a tunic in a fun print that's great for the summer weekends with a fun bag and gladiator sandals, you can still bring it into fall with a pair of tights and ballet flats. Especially if it's an unexpected color like a yellow or green. Long, thin multi-chain necklaces also add a touch of sophistication, but remember if you're going with the bright colored dress, to keep everything neutral with black, brown or grey.

Brighten up a rainy day with plaid or printed rain boots or a brightly colored umbrella, brightly colored accessories, or animal print. Be careful with the animal print, though. Keep it to one piece. If you're going with a python print shirt, tone down everything else otherwise you'll look like Peg Bundy.

Animal print, hound's tooth check, polka dots, red and black checkerboard and plaid are all huge for fall and with New York Fashion Week wrapping up on Thursday, it looks like brighter colors and animal prints are going to continue into next year. With sales going on all the time and summer clothes still on the shelves for deep discounts, you can update your wardrobe and do it on the cheap. I bought two dresses and a pair of jeans for less than what the jeans cost full price, so if you can sneak in some shopping time after work or on your lunch break, do it.