From colorful leaves to pumpkin spice, there's a lot to love about fall. Transitioning your wardrobe, however, may not feel like one of the season's highlights. It's tough to let go of your cutest dresses and tanks; worse yet is that awkward transitional period, when your summer wardrobe provides insufficient coverage, but your fall clothes have you sweating by mid-day. If you're not yet sure how to transition your wardrobe into fall, these tips should help:

 

 

Fall mornings may feel chilly, but quickly shifting temperatures could have you sweltering by noon. Layers are essential in these conditions; you never know when you'll need to add or remove apparel to feel comfortable. Cardigans and light vests are ideal early in the season. As the mornings grow colder in late autumn, however, you'll increasingly opt for blazers and light jackets to keep you warm. If you're not quite ready to pull out your most professional blazer, a knit version will do the trick, helping you look put-together but casual at the same time.

 

 

It's time to resign yourself to the unfortunate fact that it’s time to switch out your sandals for something a little more fall-friendly. Unfortunately, the weather might not yet be conducive to your favorite pair of knee-high boots. In the meantime, you'll want a transitional pair of shoes. Several types of flats work nicely, as do classic pumps. Mules are also a versatile option that can be worn throughout the fall season and even into winter when the snow isn't too much of an obstacle. Pair with a classic boatneck top or an oversized sweater, and you’ll transition right into fall.

 

 

The poncho is back, but with a practical twist for fall. In late summer and early autumn, it can be worn with a pair of jeans or over a dress for a decidedly chic look. When cooler weather arrives, your poncho will layer wonderfully over a simple long-sleeve shirt. Complete the look with a cute pair of boots and your favorite handbag. When in doubt, opt for a reversible poncho, which instantly doubles your style options by adding another color into the mix.

 

 

No matter how you adjust your layers or the length of your sleeves, you'll want to take a close look at your color palette. While people are pretty flexible these days about the 'no white after Labor Day' rule, fall still calls for a darker, more neutral-heavy wardrobe with bursts of color to reflect the bright hues of the changing leaves. Burgundy and other dark shades of red are always a win. In Oxblood, for example, the ribbed sleeve turtleneck sweater provides the ultimate opportunity to show off your newfound fall aesthetic.

 

 

No matter the season, accessories can help you maintain a sophisticated look. Ideally, however, your handbag will be practically roomy but also sleek and stylish. Therein lies the appeal of large leather tote bags, which are both highly functional and undeniably chic. As mentioned previously, however, you'll want to keep color in mind. Black works well on a year-round basis, but various shades of red and grey also look lovely during the fall months.

 

Transitioning your summer wardrobe to fall doesn't have to be a nightmare. With a few clever additions to your collection, you can seamlessly pull off this transition, no matter what the weather throws at you.