Rich wardrobe additions make it easy to look instantly updated for fall. A few well-selected pieces can bring to life any lackluster attire, keeping it elegant and modern for only a tiny fraction of an entire new wardrobe’s price. Try these quick and easy embellishments that are inspired by both the runway and the real world, so you can indulge yourself in the season’s latest trends.

1. A Belted Cardigan

A fun and trendy way to layer for fall, an adorable belted cardigan like MICHAEL Michael Kors’ Petite Belted Cotton-Rayon Knit Cardigan keeps things warm while also showing off a sexy cinched waist.















2. A Bib Necklace

A bib necklace is fall’s must-have accessory. Perhaps even the cheapest way to update your look, a bib necklace like Spiegel’s Beaded Necklace is the perfect touch for an added little zing and bling that can make even the most mundane garment look like a million bucks.













3. A Ruffled Leather Jacket

A new spin on an old favorite, the O’Hara Leather Jacket with Ruffles by Kut from the Kloth contains the brilliant concoction of fashionable rebellion and indispensable femininity that keeps you looking cool while staying warm.

What’s a girl to do when it’s too chilly to wear summer dresses but too hot to slip on fall frocks? Don’t give up those charming warm weather ensembles just yet…shift them into transition mode! Though summer is coming close to its conclusion, don’t waste your efforts rearranging your entire closet this instant. With a little creativity, and a little layering, you can still exercise stylish summer pieces by using them to add polish and pizzazz as you gradually gear up for harvest time.

1. A Ruffled Top

Don’t be afraid of ruffles! When worn correctly they can bring any outfit from drab to dashing. Traditionally worn with a skirt for summer picnics, a ruffled top like Farinaz’s crisp white version can easily bring an element of fall-forward elegance when tucked into slacks and peeking out from a blazer.

2. A Jersey Tunic Dress

A jersey tunic dress like MICHAEL by Michael Kors’ Jersey Dress with Beaded Neckline is great to wear alone during summer days. But with a comfy pair of jeggings and boots, it’s more than ready to brave the incoming cold.

3. A Maxi Dress

Transitioning a maxi dress from summer to fall might seem a bit challenging, but with the right print, like that of C.enne.V’s Geometric-Print Jersey Maxi Dress, all it takes is a little layering know-how. Add a fitted cowl-neck sweater, and maybe a waist-hugging belt, and you’ll lend a quick bohemian-chic touch to your fabulous fall style.

4. A Studded Satchel

Summer’s trendy studded satchels can pull together any outfit and turn it into a fun, structured and stylish look no matter what the weather. And with its admirable ability to go from work to play, a perfectly sized satchel like Jessica Simpson’s Karma Stud Satchel will have you equipped for wherever the climate or calendar brings you.

When it comes to missing summer fashion, you won’t have to! With these simple tips, fall’s freezing fury is no match against your innovative wardrobe stretch and style.

As the warm summer breeze turns to a chill, you might be wondering if it’s time to start shopping for an entire new line of fall frocks. But instead of picking pieces that you’ll be storing again in a matter of months, why not select some staples that you’ll be able to utilize year round? Here are five wardrobe classics that will make your transition from season to season effortless and stylish:

1. Dark Denim

Dark denim is always a smart choice since you can wear dark-rinse jeans both at the office and out running errands. Not only do dark jeans make legs look slimmer, but a classic black or very dark blue pair like Kut from the Kloth’s Delight Wash Three-Button Denim Trouser will contribute to a more polished and professional appearance in comparison to trendy faded and distressed styles, which are best reserved for weekends.

2. A Blazer

Blazers are versatile enough to wear during any circumstance, business or not. For a refreshing new take, try Spiegel’s Signature Seasonless Suiting Collection Peplum Jacket with a little black dress or your favorite “jeans and fitted shirt” combination. Blazers will add an instant sophistication to your personal style and safeguard you from upcoming autumn’s chill.

3. Beige Chinos

With a pair of quality chinos, you can add an element of casual chic to even the most basic top. Chinos set the stage for an infinite assortment of fashionable work looks too. Check out MICHAEL Michael Kors’ Gramercy Twill Pant for a flattering cut that’s relaxed but not frumpy.

4. A Pencil Skirt

The pencil skirt is a multipurpose fashion staple that comfortably hugs curves and can be worn in a multitude of ways. Give a classic black version like Eileen Fisher’s Washable Stretch-Crepe Skirt a modern update with tights, a wide belt and a ruffled blouse for a perfect day-to-night outfit.

5. A Little Black Dress

A little black dress is the most versatile of wardrobe pieces. It’s unfussy enough to wear pretty much anywhere but can also be dressed up for numerous special occasions. For fall, pair Tadashi’s contemporary Criss-Cross Stretch-Jersey Dress with a colorful scarf and jacket so you can stay warm and well dressed. Don’t forget the stockings!

For now, leave the wool, which will have you sweating by noon, and just keep in mind these specific, timeless and transitional wardrobe staples that will have you prepared through heat wave or hurricane, all year long.

An essential summer-to-fall transition piece, the lightweight cardigan adds enough warmth for cool mornings and evenings and fits neatly into a purse when temperatures soar midday. This M-perfect floral style from Charlotte Tarantola, known for her sprightly cardis flaunting vintage-inspired feminine details, has cascading ruffles and a row of jeweled buttons that make the waist appear smaller. The ruffled neckline also accents the collarbone and frames the face. Wear it with jeans and heels for movie night, a pencil skirt or sheath dress for work, capris and a tank for a Labor Day weekend beach trip…and it would look stunning with a turquoise handbag and gold shoes or vice versa.

Suddenly, it’s getting darker earlier and some of us are reaching for a blanket at night. Fall is hovering at the edges and bringing with it a rich array of gorgeous, supple clothing. Talk about fashion’s siren song! There’s no resisting it. And, of course, we all want to wear our autumn picks now. You can with a transition layer, and this knitted, hooded tunic is perfect, Y. The deep V-neck minimizes shoulders and provides the perfect frame for a stunning necklace. And that tantalizing berry color looks good on just about anyone. Right now, we see this in a mix with chic shorts, gold-tone sandals and a cami layered beneath. For fall, a simple silk blouse, jeans and boots.

Given the vagaries of Mother Nature and indoor climate control, your wardrobe may occasionally exhibit a sartorial schism (Hello, Sybil!) that leaves you to swelter in a turtleneck or to shiver without sleeves. This makes it imperative to have smart, versatile pieces that can support layered looks and weather multiple forecasts. Ms. S, consider a slightly tailored, mid-weight cotton skirt with trans-seasonal classic dots. Sunshine? Pair it with a tee and sandals. Rain? Try a trench coat, tights and yellow wellies. A defined waist and light fullness at the high hip highlight hourglass curves, while a close-to-knee length handles the in-between days with aplomb.

Getting antsy for fall, H? These lightweight, cotton-blend ankle pants will let you transition your style now without feeling overdressed. The slim, tapered leg works well with a shape that’s straight, playing up lower-body curves by emphasizing the difference in width between the hip and ankle. The belt delineates the waist, and we suggest adding a black, white or bold top for contrast that breaks up your figure—perhaps a cotton shell while the weather’s still warm or a long-sleeved shirt when autumn finally arrives. As far as footwear’s concerned, sandals, flats or heels are all acceptable with this pant silhouette, making it surprisingly versatile.

Fall fashions are beckoning from every store window, website and fashion mag. Just looking at them is like a shot of adrenaline on a hot summer’s day. And for many of us, September 1st is the real New Year’s Day. So pop a champagne cork a little earlier, A, by picking up something that can be worn now and later. First, select your color palette and fabric. Linen—even knitted—is wonderfully cool, and this vest is sartorial and light enough to layer come fall over a lovely tie-neck blouse or long-sleeve tee. It pairs with anything, even a shirtdress. Right now you could wear this on its own, but layering a cami underneath in a complementary color would add interest. Or unbutton the placket to create a little more neckline attention.

It’s August. So how about a cozy, mostly cotton, wee-bit-wool sweater to snuggle up in? There are enough chilly nights and over-air-conditioned offices to keep this lovely cardigan busy through the end of summer and, of course, beyond. Layer it over a pretty top and preferred summer bottoms now. Later, pair it with jeans or a prim, ladylike dress. (Nothing plays up a “grandfather” sweater like a pretty frock.) Because of the deep neckline and easy, shawl-like collar, your main assets, P, will look quietly sexy. The patch pockets also add visual weight at the hem to fill you out where you’re lean. The verdict on this lovely transition piece? Go ahead—give it a cuddle.

Ms. E, we could philosophize that life is all transition. Or we could simply salute the sleeved dress, a wardrobe warrior with a versatile, wear-it-now and wear-it-later attitude. Notice how short or cap sleeves provide the coverage well suited to a multi-seasonal, work-worthy look. A fitted bodice and an empire waist highlight upper proportions, and a soft, fold-over collar draws attention upward. A light, neutral plaid pairs well with summery peep-toe pumps, along with fall-friendly cardigans and closed toes. Go modern with a bright tote bag, or add a clutch if you’re in a Mad Men mood—versatility ensures effortless transition.