How to Transition Your Wardrobe from Summer to Autumn

We’re probably one of the only shopping platforms out there that’s going to try and stop you from shopping, but seriously, it’s time to get reacquainted with your own wardrobe and put a creative spin on what’s already in there.

Now, don’t get us wrong, building the perfect year-round capsule wardrobe is an art, but it’s definitely not something you need to master overnight. Take a bit of time to consciously look at what you’ve got, and when you do shop, focus on versatile pieces that work across seasons, and you’ll be halfway there.

Not only is it going to save you a whole lot of money and help you invest in higher-quality pieces that feel better to wear, but it’s also far better for the planet.

The most sustainable way to dress is by wearing what we already own… and the second most sustainable is by shopping the things someone else once loved.

So if you are on the hunt for something new this season, check Reskinned first before buying brand new.

Here are our steps to get you started, using what you already own to create an Autumn wardrobe that everyone will be jealous of.

1. Start with a Wardrobe Reset

This is the best place to start a new season, because you’ll want to figure out what’s sticking around and what pieces are very much summer-only (they can go into storage).

Pack away the lightweight pieces like cropped tops, floaty fabrics, and spaghetti straps, but hold on to anything versatile or items you’ve been loving lately. Trust us, you’ll be surprised how much of your summer wardrobe can transition into autumn with a few clever styling tweaks and some strategic layering.

Your transitional heroes? Think denim, knitwear, midi dresses, loafers, and any shoes you can wear with socks (yes, even some sandals). Neutral tees and classic shirts are also perfect for layering under or over other pieces. Even knits that are very lightweight can pair nicely under thicker pieces, or with a baselayer.

While you’re sorting through, it’s a good idea to check the condition of your clothes too. Do they need mending, a fresh wash, or are they simply not really fitting your vibe any more?

Anything you’re ready to part with can be sent to Reskinned for a discount code on one of your favourite brands. It’s the easiest way to give your clothes a new life and keep fashion circular.

2. Master the Art of Layering

If there’s one skill that truly defines transitional dressing, it’s layering. It’s the easiest way to stretch the life of your summer wardrobe while staying comfy as the temperature drops, and it adds instant depth and texture to your look. You’ll probably end up looking even better than if you’d bought something new, because your outfit will feel more creative, more elevated, and much more one-of-a-kind than something from a highstreet new-season range.

Start by building from your favourite summer pieces; the things that feel amazing when you wear them.

That slip dress you lived in through hazy July evenings? Layer it over a crisp shirt or a fine-knit turtleneck for an instant autumn update.

Your lightweight blouses and linen shirts? They make the perfect base under vests, blazers, and oversized cardigans. If you want to stay cosy, add a base layer with long sleeves for extra warmth.

Even those breezy silk skirts and midi dresses can stay in rotation. Just add tights, boots, or chunky socks and loafers.

Layering is a really practical way to make sure your clothes get a lot of wear, but it can be a fun creative practice too, that gives you space to play around with what you’ve got. What does your summer blouse look like under a chunky knit? Or that long linen skirt paired with a structured jacket instead of a light top?

Experimenting is key to finding those surprising looks where you suddenly just think, hey, I’m a fashion genius.

A few key layering tips:

• Mix textures for interesting looks. Pair silky fabrics with heavy knits or denim to add dimension
  
  
• Play with proportions. Balance a cropped jacket with longer layers beneath, or add long loose maxi dresses over wide leg jeans for interesting new dimensions. Sometimes it’ll look crazy, don’t get us wrong, but other times it’ll look amazing
• Keep a few neutral base layers (white tees, fine knits, shirts) that work with everything, and you will very rarely go wrong
• Have an open mind. Trust the process, stay experimental and have fun. Fashion is all about being creative.
• Stick to similar colour families if you’re struggling to make things work. Pair neutrals, or colour pops together, or add darker shades to your bright summer pieces. When all else fails, Pinterest is the perfect place to get some inspiration on what colours look best together.

3. Swap Light Colours and Textures for Rich Ones

As we move into autumn, a few subtle switches can make your wardrobe feel instantly a whole lot more seasonal, even if you’re still wearing summery clothes.

Start by introducing richer fabrics and textures to the mix. Think denim, cord, wool, and chunky knit blends. These heavier materials not only add warmth but also make your outfits look more intentional and layered. If you still love wearing summery fabrics like linen, cotton, or sheer pieces, you can definitely keep them in play, just balance them with heavier textures for that perfect transitional contrast.

The same goes for colour. Your bright summer tones and soft pastels can take on a whole new life when paired with grounding autumnal shades like navy, chocolate, camel, or olive. Mixing light and dark, soft and bold, creates depth and interest, giving your wardrobe that effortless, lived-in autumn feel without needing to buy anything new.

4. Update Your Footwear and Accessories (Not Your Whole Look)

Swapping out your shoes is the quickest and easiest way to make your outfit feel more autumnal.

If you invest in high-quality leather boots and loafers, or even a good pair of trainers, you’ll be able to rewear them for so many years to come.

Instantly, you’ll make your look less summery, and, very importantly, keep your feet nice and warm.

Your accessories are going to take your look from summer to Autumn so quickly you won’t believe it. Pack the sunglasses, woven bags and shell jewellery away and swap for knitted scarves, berets and more structured leather bags for a more elevated look.

Looking after your leather pieces and your footwear is crucial to keeping them feeling exciting every single autumn. Take a bit of time to give your pieces some TLC with a polish, re-soling or even a good scrub if they’re looking a bit worn down, before you replace them. You’ll be surprised at how well they scrub up if they’re good quality.

Restyling Your Summer Wardrobe 101

We’ve put together a mini guide for styling some of our favourite summer pieces for Autumn.

The Tie-up Vest

Vests and waistcoats are the ultimate autumn update. They instantly elevate even the simplest outfit, like a white tee and jeans.

In summer, style your tie-up vest over a cropped top with a light skirt and slip-on shoes for effortless cool. Pair with a woven bag and chunky gold jewellery for a bohemian feel.

And when the weather gets chillier, you can transition it seamlessly into autumn by layering it over a crisp blouse with jeans and chunky loafers, then top it off with your favourite cropped jacket. Add a beret for a bit of extra seasonal style.

It’s the perfect piece to add structure and interest without the bulk of a heavy jumper under your lighter jackets, adding a little bit of extra warmth while making you look polished and put-together.