Its Early, But Its Here: The Summer-to-Fall Capsule Wardrobe 2 Style Experts Swear By

The period between the end of summer and the beginning of fall may be brief, but it still requires a thoughtful approach to style. One day might call for a minidress with elevated flip-flops, and the next could require a lightweight jacket, trousers, and closed-toe flats. Mastering transitional dressing is the key to navigating these changing temperatures seamlessly.

After more than six years of working in fashion, I’ve learned the trick isn’t necessarily having more clothes. It’s knowing which pieces can carry you through the temperature shift, many of which you can borrow from your summer and fall wardrobes. To get a fresh perspective on what that looks like this season, I tapped two insiders: Mandy Lee, fashion and trend analyst and TJ Maxx and Marshalls trend expert, and Erin Walsh, celebrity stylist and TJ Maxx and Marshalls style expert. While I don’t want to give away everything they shared just yet, one thing I will divulge is that you should prepare for one big shift—saying goodbye to quiet luxury and a minimalist way of dressing.

“We are entering a more maximalist space,” Lee tells Who What Wear. “[Fashion] has been leaning very simple and structured, and that’s great. It has given people a big chance to find their basics and everyday items; however, now, we will see people really get in touch with their personal styles and add personality to their looks.” This renewed emphasis on personal style will show up not just in silhouettes but also in color. Lee anticipates chartreuse, earthy green, and different tones of blue will be everywhere. “I would keep your eye on purple too,” she says.

Keep scrolling to discover more insights from Lee as well as Walsh and then shop our favorite fashion finds for the season ahead.

Meet the Experts

Summer-to-Fall Capsule-Wardrobe Shopping Tips, According to Walsh

What are the key pieces every fashion person should have in their summer-to-fall wardrobe?

It depends on who you are, what you need in your life, what your days look like, and what roles you’re playing. That said, I think you need a killer pair of jeans and a transitional jacket or sweater that starts injecting some of those warmer textures like wool and cashmere into your wardrobe.

What are your favorite styling techniques for navigating the transitional season?

I love adding a thin turtleneck under a shirt. I also love elevating basics with statement jewelry and belts. If I’m going to invest in something new for fall, I will look for new shoes that feel grounded, such as a chunky boot or loafer, or something fresh that will cinch the waist.

How would you recommend transitioning summer dresses into a fall-ready wardrobe?

I would throw an oversize denim jacket on top and style it with a slouchy sock and a chunky boot.

What denim silhouettes and trends do you think are worth investing in this year?

I love a high-waisted, structured trouser denim style—something that feels very ’70s inspired. I also love a sleek pair of straight-leg, high-waisted jeans. However, for the weekends, if you want to feel very relaxed, a pair of baggy jeans is the way to go.

What color trends are you excited about for fall?

Mustard yellow, burgundy, deep teal, and olive. All the rust tones too.

You’ve worked with TJ Maxx and Marshalls for quite some time now. What makes them great destinations for summer-to-fall shopping?

The pieces you’ll find are versatile and timeless. It’s not like because it worked last season, it won’t work next season. Also, you never have to compromise. You will always find options that are valuable, luxurious, and elevated without having to compromise your budget.

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Summer-to-Fall Fashion Trends, According to Lee

Miss Moody Maximalist

“The quiet luxury trend was big for quite a while, and now, fashion seems to be leaning into something more fun, more statement-making, and more punchy. From a designer perspective, brands know they need basics and everyday pieces, but they also understand that standout, special pieces can be a huge incentive for consumers to come to their brand and shop. People want those items that make them feel a little more individual.”

Sporty Chic

“This trend is really all about juxtaposition. You might have a crisp, tailored top paired with something sportier and made from a softer material on the bottom and then finish the look with a fun sneaker—something that’s part espadrille and part metallic sneaker. I think this is a really easy way to take that love of comfort and make it feel a little more polished and age-appropriate while still carrying that sporty sensibility into your career. This aesthetic has a lot of power when it comes to appealing to a younger generation because it feels comfortable, current, and still put-together.”

Whimsical Accents

“This trend goes hand in hand with the maximalist aesthetic. From beaded bags to a menswear-inspired tie or even glass orchid earrings, these fun pieces will pull together any look. What’s also cool about [shopping at TJ Maxx and Marshalls] is that inventory varies from location to location, so every shopping trip can feel a little like a treasure hunt. You might go in looking for one thing and discover a whimsical accessory or unexpected piece that completely changes your outfit. The options really feel endless.”

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