What I’m Wearing While Summer Fades and Fall Creeps In
There comes a point in late summer when I just can’t put on one more tank top. But it’s also way too soon to commit to sweaters, especially here in the South, where the weather can’t decide if it’s done with summer or not. That’s when I start reaching for those trusty transitional tops, lightweight pieces that still breathe but hint at fall with their colors, textures, or just a bit more coverage.
If you’ve ever stood in your closet this time of year feeling like everything is either too summery or way too warm, this post is for you. I’m sharing the tops I’ve been wearing lately that help me navigate this hot one minute, breezy the next kind of season. Some of these are brand new, and others are favorites I’ve styled more than once because they just work.
Lightweight Layers That Feel Like Fall, But Don’t Overheat
Open-Knit Button Front Sweater Vest
I didn’t think I’d be into sweater vests, but this one made me rethink that. It’s open-knit, so it doesn’t trap heat, and the buttons give it just enough detail to make it interesting. I sized up to a large for a little more length and layering room, and I really liked how it draped. I wore it over a bodysuit, but it would look cute over a tee or even a button-down with the sleeves rolled up.
Why it works:
- Versatile for layering now and later
- Lightweight enough for late summer
- Adds that touch of “fall” without being a full sweater
Embroidered Shell Pullover Sweater
This sweater just has such an easy feel. The embroidery adds a pretty little detail, and the fabric holds its shape but doesn’t feel stiff. It’s light enough to wear now, but can be worn under jackets later. The medium fit me just right, not too tight, not too loose. Just easy.
Why it works:
- Looks polished on its own or layered
- Pretty but not fussy
- Easy to dress up or down
Short-Sleeve Embroidered Pointelle Pullover
This short-sleeve pullover feels like a hidden gem. The oatmeal color is a great neutral, and the pointelle knit adds texture without making it hot. It looks like a fall piece, but you won’t melt in it. You can wear it by itself now and then throw a vest or cardigan over it later.
Why it works:
- Neutral color that pairs with everything
- Textured knit for a soft fall feel
- Works solo or layered
Fall-Friendly Fabrics with Short Sleeves
Short Sleeve Wool & Cashmere Sweater
Okay, this short-sleeve sweater feels a little luxe. It’s a wool-cashmere blend, so it sounds warm, but because of the short sleeves and breathable knit, it’s perfect for now. I wore it with wide-leg jeans and boots, and it felt cozy without being too much. If you run cold, you’ll love this.
Why it works:
- Breathable luxury that still feels light
- Short sleeves make it perfect for layering
- Great transition from August into September
Tees and Tops with Fall Personality
Talbots Tie Front Crewneck Tee in Leopard
You gurls already know I’m a sucker for leopard print, and this tee makes it easy to wear now and later. The tie-front adds a little shape, and the material is so soft. I wore it with black pants, but it would work with jeans, too, or even shorts if it’s still hot where you are.
Why it works:
- Classic fall print in a breathable shape
- Flattering tie detail at the waist
- Easy to style in a bunch of ways
J. Jill Pintucked Printed Voile Top
This breezy top is one of those tops that feels like nothing, but looks like you tried. The pintuck detail gives it a feminine vibe, and the print has just enough fall coloring without being heavy. Great for those warm afternoons when a sweater would be too much.
Why it works:
- Lightweight and polished
- Easy to wear and easy to wash
- Muted fall print that works now
Caslon Puff Sleeve Top
A simple top with a puff sleeve? Yes, please. It just adds that little extra touch. This one is soft and comfy, and I love the colors; it comes in a few that work now and others that lean more fall. I’m wearing it with jeans and might throw on a denim jacket when it cools off.
Why it works:
- Flattering sleeve detail
- Comfy fabric with structure
- Transitions easily from day to night
Layering Pieces That Work for Warm Days
J.Crew Factory Short-Sleeve Pointelle V-Neck Cardigan
This one’s a two-for-one: wear it as a button-up top or open over a tank. The pointelle knit keeps it breathable, and I love the soft texture. I’ll be wearing this a lot during the season shift.
Why it works:
- Dual purpose = more outfit options
- Soft knit texture gives fall vibes
- Easy to throw in a bag for layering
Chico’s No Iron™ Tie-Front Geo-Print Shirt
I love a shirt that I don’t have to steam! This one is wrinkle-resistant and has a fun little retro vibe. It looks sharp with white pants right now, but I’ll swap them for dark denim when it cools down!
Why it works:
- No-iron fabric = less effort
- Fun print without being too bold
- Great crossover piece from work to casual
A Sweater-Vest That’s Easy to Wear Now and Later
J.Crew Factory Slub V-Neck Sweater-Vest
If you’ve been unsure about the sweater vest trend, this one is the one to try. It’s lightweight, has a nice slub texture, and just feels like fall without actually being hot. I wore it over a short-sleeve tee, but it would also work over a button-up or even a lightweight turtleneck once it cools down more. It fits true to size, and I love how it adds a little something to even the simplest outfit.
Why it works:
- Great layering piece that adds texture
- Lightweight enough for warmer days
- Easy way to dip into fall style without heavy fabrics
Loft Ribbed Scoop Neck Tee
This tee is a wardrobe basic I keep reaching for. The ribbed texture makes it feel a little more structured, and the scoop neckline is flattering on everyone. Get it in a fall shade and you’ll wear it on repeat.
Why it works:
- Basic, but not boring
- Great layering piece
- Ribbed fabric keeps its shape
Old Navy EveryWear Crew-Neck T-Shirt
You can’t go wrong with a classic like this. These are my go-to tees when I need something quick, comfy, and affordable. I grab a couple each season, especially in fall-friendly colors. They’re great for layering under jackets or cardigans.
Why it works:
- Budget-friendly and reliable
- Comes in tons of colors
- Super soft and easy to care for
Chico’s Printed Textured Scoopneck Cardigan
If you’re not quite ready for full-on sweaters, this cardigan is a perfect in-between piece. It adds texture and personality without being heavy. Throw it on over a basic tee, and you’re good to go.
Why it works:
- Statement piece without being loud
- Light enough for late summer
- Great for layering over solids
FAQs About Transitional Tops for Summer to Fall
What exactly is a transitional top?
It’s that sweet spot between sleeveless tanks and full sweaters. Think lightweight fabrics with a little structure, longer sleeves, or fall-inspired colors and textures.
Can I wear short sleeves in September?
Yes! Especially if they’re in cozy knits, richer tones, or paired with layering pieces like vests or cardigans.
What colors transition well into fall?
Neutrals, rust, olive, mustard, deep blues, and muted animal prints all work beautifully. You don’t have to dive into full-on autumn tones right away.
Are these styles good for women over 50?
Absolutely. Every piece I’ve shared is something I’ve worn and loved. They’re comfortable, stylish, and age-appropriate without feeling frumpy.
To Wrap This Up
This in-between season always sneaks up on me, but having a few summer-to-fall transitional tops in your closet makes getting dressed a whole lot easier. You don’t need a whole new wardrobe, just a few smart pieces that work with what you already have.
Are you ready to start the fall transition? You can also check out the Two Fall Transition Outfits That Are Comfortable and Look Stylish post I recently wrote for more inspiration.
Shop More Easy Transitional Tops to Wear from Summer to Fall:
🧠 Fall Fashion Memory Match
Tap two cards. Match the fall fashion items!
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😀 I love the idea of the wool and cashmere for a transitional piece but I’ll wait until I reach my goal weight before I buy an investment piece.
Like the sweater vest! 🙂
I just love that Chico’s sweater. I do not need it but I do want it. hmmm
Love the match game.
If the temps stays hot, which it will through September here in South Carolina, I will need super light weight.
Dresses Help.
You looked good in the neutral colors. I enjoyed the matching game.
🙂 I really like the shirt vest’s return to fashion (maybe never really left)!
🙂 i love short sleeve sweaters…. striped cardigan is my favorite💜
🙂 I am liking the short sleeve sweaters. I also am enjoying the matching game
🙂 I like the tie-front leopard tee, and the scooped neck printed voile top the best.
I need to shop. But it’s still 97 or so here, so it’ll be a while before I give up tank tops and sleeveless.
Love the matching game. Quince is one of my favorites. Great options.
😊. Found it.
I’m enjoying the games.
The clothing items are great for transitioning from late summer to fall. Thanks for sharing.
😊 Seasonal dressing for September and October in the South can be difficult. Thanks for showing us these great options. Fun game!
I liked the “Matching” game!
Fall is my favorite season and I am looking forward to fall clothes. Thank you for helping with the transition.
Love the game! In Alabama, it’s going to be very hot until winter. I can’t really wear the beautiful sweaters and long sleeves that I love! This heat is terrible!
🙂 Fun games! Cute clothes!
😀 Fun!
I like the game. Thanks for the ideas. I start wearing fall colors in September. They have to be in cotton because it’s still hot.
Found it! Cute game.
Really like the sweater vest/cardigan from J Crew Factory.
🙂found it! I really like the JCrew factory sweater vest. Very tempting!
😀. Love the vests.
Great suggestions. 😊
Fun match game
Great tops and enjoyed the match game!
Enjoyed the matching game …. Reminds me of the game “Concentration “ that I remember playing back in the day!!
Thank you for the transitional pieces , waiting for fall and cooler temps. 101 degrees here yesterday in Houston!
Love your ideas for change of season . Your match game is genius 👍
😊 Gurl! I love the match game! LOL!
I live in AZ, and fall is merely a frame of mind. So I consume all of the pumpkin spice things, decorate with fake leaves, and wear fall colors. The Old Navy t-shirt will definitely work for my lifestyle, and love the J Jill top!
Game was fun. I am newish here and can never find the 🙂! 🤦♀️
😁lots of cute tops!!
It is hard to know what to wear as the seasons change. I like your suggestions. I like the match game 🙂
🙂 I can’t think fall it is 90 degrees with a feel like temperature of over 100 in South Carolina. I do love the first vest in the post. I need that memory tune, I am always losing or forgetting my phone!
The matching game was fun! I love the kohl’s sweater with the shells.
😀 love the match game!!!
This game was fun, but I think the one in your other post was a little more challenging, so I preferred that one.
Thanks for all you do.
😊 These are all cute transitional pieces! I like the match game!
😀
The matching game was fun! A bit more interesting than my usual baby animals memory game I play with my grandkids! Lol
😊 I’m definitely a layers girl. And all the games are fun.
The match game was fun. I like the sweater vest and open stitch tops for transitioning into fall. 🙂
Couldn’t find the smiley but did better than expected at the matching game. I love the shell top and the embroidered mesh one.
I like the fall fashion memory match game
Like fall ideas, no fall in AZ!!
Liked the match game.
🙂 The matching game is fun if you have a little bit of time after scrolling through to find the 🙂 and look at all the fun outfits!!
☺ Finally I found him!! Loved everything including the matching game and most of all the two offerings from JCrewFactory, the sweater vest and short sleeve cardigan, so cute!
🙂 I like the Chico’s cardigan.
😊 These are great outfits! I May needy purchase another sweater vest from Kohl’s
Always love the matching game! It helps to make your brain stronger, I think! Nice tops to choose from.
🙂 I love the sweater vest on you. I also love the matching game…great for memory recall and the fashion icons are perfect!
😊Thank you for the options. I don’t know when I will feel like wearing sweaters with the heat we are having in South Carolina. I also love the games, good for your memory.
I have some transition pieces but won’t be wearing them any time soon. the 100 degree weather just gets setting in good in August in texas. I remember one year my summer flowers were still going strong beginning of December!!!
I liked so many of these tops. The shell vest, the pointelle, the beautiful blue top (Definitely a good color for you), the tie front top, the pointelle cardigan. I like playing matching games. Very good for memory. I play a hallmark one almost every day!!
I love the game! You look beautiful in beiges!
Love the leopard print. Very becoming and versatile.
🙂 The match game was fun and good for my memory – which is not always so good anymore.
😊 The idea that summer is almost over is very sad! In the New England states, our summer is short, so I’m in no hurry for it to end. I did like your suggestions and the sweater vest is really nice.
🙂 the match game was fun😀
🙂 We have had a very cool summer but that often changes in August and September. Too many hot days coming for me to think about dressing for Fall yet. The sweater vest looks tempting though.
😊I like the sweater vests. The matching game was fun as well.
I liked the post. I’ve gotten some good ideas for adding to my wardrobe. Enjoyed the match game.
Tania, for some reason, I have a lot of trouble with your website. Often when I’m trying to comment as well as yesterday trying to play that I get a message that a problem has repeatedly occurred on the site and it reloads. I’ve tried deleting my account and re-setting it up again, so I don’t know what’s going on, but I often get frustrated and end up not commenting or not finishing that game yesterday. Any suggestions?
Don’t past any attention to those messages. All comments have to go through moderation, so they take a little while to be approved
I loved the game! And, all the pretty neutrals you showed! No fall here, back into the 100s next week. Happy Friday❤❤❤
I LOVE the new game! You are so clever.
🙂 cute tops
😊 open knit front button sweater vest!
I like the matching game. Will it qualify as brain training, I wonder? HAHA
It should help with keeping our brains healthy and active.
🙂 I like the short sleeve wool cashmere sweater.
The new game is fun. Thank you.
Love the J. Crew tops. And the game! 🙂
Great suggestions! I cannot decide what to wear during this time of the year. Thanks
🙂 Lots of adorable tops.
I like the games – they’re a fun diversion!
Love the games!
These are cute suggestions, but I’m not ready to think about fall quite yet.
Doesn’t hurt to think ahead.
🙂
😊 I like the sweater with shells.
😃 Oh, my gosh! This post is perfect today! We are heading into the time of year when I am finding it hard to find outfits that I haven’t worn on repeat numerous times. 😂 There are a couple of cute wardrobe refreshers there to get me through.
😊 Cute tops. I like the pointelle pullover. I’m not ready for sweaters and coats! The fashion game was fun!
🙂 Liking the different games.
Fun game. I love the shell top.
🙂 Thanks for the suggestions. I always bring a light sweater if im wearing a tank top. The match game was fun! I used to play that game with my grandchildren.
🙂like the animal print top.
Match game was fun!!
😀 the games were fun. Nice and quick. Cute tops too.
😅 Good info for later.
😊 I like the game. Love the tie front leopard top and J. Crew vest!
Loved the leopard print t but unfortunately not in my size left.
🙂 I’m loving the sweater vests this year! I feel like its a return from years past 🙂
I was a little slow but I still loved the game😁 Thanks for your gift of humor!
that was fun!
🙂 I love the shell pullover, the embroidered pullover and the hobo bag.
🙂 I love the shell pullover, the embroidered pullover and the hobo bag.
Liked this game
Enjoy your outlook on life! You are a bright spot each morning, thank you!
Few years ago you had Joe put together an outfit for you. That was so fun, would you consider that again?
loved the Fashion match game!
Thanks again!
Lol! I need to have him do that for me again.
Found it 🙂 I can’t even think of sweaters and long sleeves without breaking out in a sweat! LOL! But they all look awesome come January.
😊I like v-vest and old navy shirt.
I like the match game!
Ready to transition or play with outfits adding a leopard dress maxi for lounging around the house.
Thanks for the great ideas!
🙂 Love the J Crew cardigan!
Oh my gosh, this year I am so excited to get out transitional and fall tops. Granted I live in a very warm climate, so it’s more about changing up the color palette a little to those darker hues and adding some texture to my tops. 🙂
☺️love the new game!
🙂
I can’t even begin to think about fall clothes yet! Our heat index was 118 earlier this week.
But a gurl can dream! LOL. I live for cooler weather!!!
The tops are perfect. Now if the weather will cool a bit!
🙂 Cute game, I enjoyed! I like the J. Jill Pintucked Printed Voile Top, it’s my favorite.
😊Lots of pretty choices. I’m attracted to the soft neutrals for fall. I’ll start wearing them in September.
☺️transition is happening to fast, but it always does at change of seasons. ❤️the sweater vest.
🙂 Found it
🙂 Pretty transition pieces. There are a couple of good ideas for Florida where my fall outfits would probably be transition pieces for others, lol. The memory game was fun! And I need it!
I’m trying to keep all of our brains young.
Loving all these tops.
Found it😀
😀 liked the lighter shirts Noticing a log of brown. Like the card match
I’m wearing a TON of brown already.
😀cute print top
I enjoyed both games, as well as the one yesterday! But, I’m a game person! I play several each day on my phone. 😊
It has been a challenge to find games that work for desktop and mobile. Hopefully, I’ll be able to get it down pat.
😀 I like that game!
😀 I really like the neutral open weave sweater. Very pretty.
Love the game and the sweater vest!
Pretty sweaters! found the 🙂
😀 nice fall transition pieces especially when you live a warm place. Game was fun
😊 Great transitional tops.
found it 🙂 !
love the leopard print shirt and Old Navy tee.
I don’t do the word search games.
15/15 Word Search
The sweater vests are versatile.
Found it 😊
☺️love sweater tops…short sleeve ones too!
🙂 Found it! I’m just not ready to transition yet. I want to keep a grasp on summer. But I do love fall clothes.
I always enjoy your stories and presentations. Entertaining and spot on fashion sense. Thank you for making life better and for your perpetual inclusion of our Lord. He is the reason that any of this and us matter. Best to you and your family. I look forward to your posts.
😊love everything in this post. Thank you!!
🙂 Liked you Fall ideas!
I love the sweater vest, would be cute with a small t-shirt underneath as well I think. 🙂
I love the game
😉like the sweater vest.
😀 great idea with the sweat
🙂 So many great tops.