August. That weird month that comes with the impossibility to predict if tomorrow’s weather will be swelteringly hot and sticky, pleasantly warm and perfect, sunny and crisp, or (with how it’s been lately) a flashback to spring showers and below sixty-degree temps. With these constant heat fluctuations, getting ready in the morning can be a pain, and you may suffer the consequences of an insensible outfit if you don’t check at least three weather sites. UGH. With school around the bend as well, I know mine as well as many others’ heads are spinning try to pack AND shop for school (double UGH.) – let’s face it, who knows when fall is going to bear its beautiful face? (In case you can’t tell, I adore fall). Well, my darlings, if you are equipped with the Marquette Journal’s essentials for autumn, then you won’t bat an eye when you wake up to the frisky August and September weather! Each of these four items can start being incorporated in your wardrobe on chillier summer nights, and then be staples for when fall comes.
Back Sacks
When I think August, naturally I think back to school, which leads me to my first essential – back sacks! Made with thinner straps and more earthy fabrics than backpacks, I like to call these cute little purses back sacks. And these babies are not only used for function, but for fashion! These style statements are perfect for summer activities like music festivals and cruising Milwaukee, and are just as useful for those forsaken textbooks come fall. Cuter than most backpacks I’ve seen, plus easier on your shoulders than a tote! Back sacks are win-win if you ask me!
Little Leather Backpack, $28 at Claire’s
Xhiliration Stud-Square Backpack in Black, $29.99 at Target
Ethnic Print Backpack, $39.99 at Tilly’s
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are perfect for both summer and fall – pair with a floral corset dress or a pair of distressed high-waisties in 80 degree weather, or couple with tights, a denim jacket, and a chunky scarf for those cooler days! I opted for more rustic-style leather booties, rather than heeled versions or other textures because I really like the edgy look, but any good pair of ankle boots is so versatile! Try these ones on for size:
Report Audin Triple-Buckle Ankle Boot, $80 at Urban Outfitters
Report Footwear Osprey Booties in Taupe, $120 at Tobi.com
Fergalicious Lucid Bootie in Black, $59.95 at DSW
Thigh-High Socks
So, ok maybe I’m jumping the gun here a little, but although thigh-high socks and knee socks are quite warm; they can still be used for summer! I would look for a thinner material like cotton or maybe a looser wool knit that is almost kind of sheer like the Urban Outfitter version below (but I would NOT advise getting those thigh-high hose that look like sheer tights – they are hard to pull off without looking a little vampy if you ask me). For cooler months, a chunkier knit would provide maximum warmth against the autumn chill. Also, thigh-high socks are a great way to extend the use of your summer shorts into fall. They can be paired with black high-waisted shorts and a band tee or a short flouncy skirt and a cable-knit sweater, and so much more!
Button Thigh-High Sock, $14 at Urban Outfitters
Chain-Link Solid Thigh-High Socks, $18 at American Apparel
Still stuck on how to wear them? Here’s some inspirational looks I just loved!
Slouchy Sweaters
So maybe I’m just looking for an excuse to wear a comfy, cozy sweater, but let’s face it: sweater weather is the best weather. (I’m referencing “Sweater Weather” by The Neighbourhood, which is crack for you ears. Check it out here if you already haven’t heard it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCdwKhTtNNw). I know y’all are trendy and ahead of the times.) You can toss one right over your dress or layer over your swimsuit top on a crisp summer night. The slouchy, relaxed fit is perfect for summer, and still bares a little skin so you don’t get too toasty. Spending on a cute chunky knit is well worth it because you’ll get wear out of it in all four seasons! Here are some I really like:
Knitted Chunky Rib Jumper, $84 at Topshop
Rag & Bone Tanya Pullover, $275
Instead of an exposed shoulder, try showing off your back! Unexpected and still great for summer weather.
BB Dakota Wilmet Open-Back Sweater, $89 at Urban Outfitters
Well, I don’t know about you, but now I’m super pumped for fall… and I really want to go back-to-school shopping!!! I hope this guide gives you fashionistas some inspiration for fall and provides you with a head start on your autumn wardrobe! Keep your eye out for our fall jacket picks coming up next month! Happy styling!