Fall Fashionably Forward — The Best Transitional Pieces

There’s nothing I love more than digging around the sale racks in the final weeks of August. Just as the kiddos head back to school, but with summer temps still soaring, it’s a great time to score steals that you can enjoy for another couple of months before storing till next year. But the ultimate in mid-season shopping are the rare but amazing finds that will work now, then, and later. Last year, my favorite was a white Free People lace dress with 3/4 sleeves that was smashing at my post-wedding beach bonfire, adorable bare-legged on the Italian honeymoon, and brought me through fall and winter with black tights, and flats or later boots. Shop the sales with gusto this month and come out on top — of your new wardrobe staples, at least.

Life’s Little Luxuries
A gorgeous silk blouse speaks volumes, especially if it comes from the inimitable Diane Von Furstenberg. I love pairing a playful print like this with denim cutoffs and Jack Rogers sandals for late August dress-up-dressed-down ensembles. But it will also be smart with amazing jeans (below), a pencil or leather flared skirt, slouchy black velvet pants, and tons of other wardrobe staples September – March. Time to play! Jezebel printed silk-chiffon blouse, $128.25 from an original $285, TheOutnet.

The Perfect Jean
Ditch the rips and reach for cool, seasonless style with a fitted pair of dark Hudson jeans. I love the tapered leg and flattering high waist on these. They’re perfect now for early-morning bus walks and drop-offs paired with a casual white tee and flats, but can be dressed up for work or play throughout the many, many months ahead. Nico Super Skinny in Under the Radar, $132 from an original $165, Bloomingdales.

Damsel By Day:
I treated myself to this beautiful J. McLaughlin sheath in their signature Catalina fabric earlier this summer. It stretches over my current preggo bump and I know it’ll still be fresh and fun next summer for evenings and fall for errands, lunch, or whatever else the day throws my way. Don’t let the colorful print deter you — in person, this ultra-flattering fit will totally appeal, while the mock neck, 3/4 sleeves, and slightly flared skirt create a narrow silhouette. The Cooper Dress in Black Deco Floral, $49.90 from an original $225, J. McLaughlin.

Date Night Delight:
Every closet needs a great LBD, but even if yours already contains one (or more), consider this expertly constructed Rag & Bone number. Double the straps up the sex appeal and the gold back zip creates a tiny pop of contrast. Fitted and ready to party, it’ll rock now with funky platforms, this fall with moto boots, and throughout whatever winter parties come knocking, paired with black tights and your favorite metallic stilettos. Rag & Bone Vela dress, $210 from an original $350, Saks.

… And just because I had to. There is absolutely nothing practical about these stunners, but Lanvin has created a masterpiece and Barneys Co-Op was kind enough to mark them down so low, there’s no negotiating oneself away. Sparkly bows, 1920-inspired T-straps, a high, solid heel, and the two-tone silk? Yes please, and thank you. I’m in love. $419 from an original $1,215, Barneys.