Monday, August 18, 2008

swimsuits, sandals and ... sweaters? oh my!

After spending a wonderful weekend in Hood Canal with my girlfriends, I drove home plotting my use of the spring/summer seasons' best transitional pieces. The reason? 95 degrees of roasting under the sun one day followed by chilly breezes and evening thunderstorms the next. (While I will defend the beauty and character of this region until the day I die, the weather, sadly, does not always return the affection.)

Admittedly, the weekend's wardrobe was nothing beyond a swimsuit on Saturday and a full body sweat suit on Sunday (sexy, I know). But assuming I won't be spending the rest of the summer in near-isolation, I'd like to be better prepared next time around. Luckily, summer sales are just hitting their stride, making the transitions easy on our wallets, too.


American Eagle Short-Sleeve Layering Cardigan
$39.50 --> $29.95

A nearly perfect summer-to-fall piece, with just enough warmth and coverage to ward off an over-zealous air-conditioner or those first September chills. For now, wear it open over a tank and tailored, knee-length shorts. (Any shorter and the cardigan will cover your shorts completely and hang awkwardly off your rear.) Cinch it at the waist with a thin, brightly colored belt. As the weather turns, switch the tank top and shorts for a ruffly, feminine dress and a warm pair of tights.



French Connection Happy Talk Dress
$168 --> $149.99

Well, I can't take credit for the name, but the thought of this casual, summery piece paired with gladiator flats does make me happy. I'm happier still, to know that it will look equally chic and effortless come fall. Just keep it cozy with a black long-sleeve tee, matching tights and ankle boots. Use a belt or jewelry if things get too monochromatic for you.







Rory Beca Georgia Silk Dress
$308 --> $183.90

The easy, alluring drape makes it perfect for summer cocktails; the lush color palette carries it seamlessly into fall. When tights aren't enough, tuck the dress into a high-waisted pair of wide-leg trousers and throw on a warm, slouchy knit. Or keep things sleek and sexy with your best pair of skinny jeans and a close-cropped blazer.









Confident you've got this summer-fall transition thing down to a science? Put your money where your mouth is and check out the Net-A-Porter summer clearance sale. Enter SUMMER at check-out for an additional 20% off and let us know how it goes!

IMAGE CREDIT: AMERICAN EAGLE, FRENCH CONNECTION, NORDSTROM