Fall Layers: How I Style My Transitional Looks.

We’ve officially reached that tricky time of year when you leave your apartment feeling freezing cold in the early morning, only to come home drenched in sweat by mid-afternoon. Welcome to the transitional season in New York City — a frustrating yet fascinating period when the weather just can’t seem to make up its mind, but thankfully, your carefully curated outfits still can.

Fall layering is truly my love language. It’s practical, yes, providing warmth and comfort as the temperatures drop, but it’s also where style really gets fun — mixing different textures, playing with a rich palette of colors, and finding creative ways to make summer pieces stretch just a little longer into the cooler months. So today, I’m breaking down exactly how I build my transitional looks every fall, covering everything from cozy morning coffee runs to chic city nights out.

🧥 the base: light and breathable

the first rule of transitional dressing? never underestimate a good base layer. i start with lightweight, breathable fabrics that feel like a second skin — think cotton tees, satin camis, or ribbed tanks. these are my go-to for staying comfortable when the temperature inevitably shifts mid-day.

a few i’ve been living in lately:

• a simple white cotton tee tucked into high-waisted trousers.

• a black slip dress layered over a thin knit top.

• a ribbed long sleeve that works on its own or under a blazer.

(shop the pieces i actually wear on my ShopMy page)

🧣 the texture play

fall is the season to mix it up — denim, wool, leather, and suede all at once? absolutely yes. i love pairing something structured (like a tailored coat) with something soft (like a knit scarf or a draped sweater). it creates movement without looking bulky.

my favorite combo this year: a cream knit cardigan over a satin slip dress, finished with chunky boots. it’s equal parts cozy and pulled together.

👢 the footwear formula

i rotate between three pairs this time of year: loafers, boots, and sneakers. simple.

• loafers for coffee meetings and uptown days.

• ankle boots for nights out or park walks (perfect with midi skirts).

• white sneakers for when i’m running around filming or doing errands.

bonus: add cozy socks that peek out — it’s a tiny detail that makes everything feel styled.

👜 the layer you can’t forget

outerwear is where the transitional part really happens.
my staples:

• a trench coat (classic and lightweight enough for layering).

• an oversized blazer (perfect for daytime polish).

• a denim or leather jacket (for edge, warmth, and texture).

the trick? always size up one — it gives that effortless drape that feels intentional, not stuffy.

☕️ style it like a new yorker

when i’m styling my fall layers, i always ask: can i wear this from a morning coffee run in harlem to an impromptu dinner downtown? if the answer’s yes, it’s a keeper.

that means my palette stays neutral — camel, black, grey, olive, cream — and i add color through accessories. maybe a bold scarf, a red lip, or a suede bag. (trust me, those tiny details make the outfit look way more expensive than it is.)

🧡 final thoughts

Fall layering isn’t about perfection — it’s all about finding the right balance. It’s truly the art of thoughtfully combining what you already own in a stylish way that feels fresh and new. So, pull out those beloved summer favorites, grab your coziest, softest sweater, and start mixing and matching with confidence. Because in New York City, fall isn’t just a season on the calendar — it’s an entire mood, a vibe that inspires your style and spirit every day.

✨ want more fall city inspiration? read my post on Fall in Central Park: Photo Spots + Peaceful Corners or watch my fall vlog on YouTube.

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