As a personal stylist sweating profusely in Florida, one must learn during the fall to dance with the scorching heat of the day and chilly temperatures at night. Dressing comfortably for both can be challenging, especially when you want to look stylish at the same time. To that I say challenge accepted. Today’s blog is all about dressing for that pesky in between weather without sacrificing style and using these garments to accentuate and add to an outfit rather than just keep you warm once the sun sets. Let’s delve into your outerwear options and summer pieces and how the combo of both can elevate your Florida fashion game.

Cardigans

The cardigan is one of the easiest things to throw on once the sun sets or when entering a chill building. However, as personal stylist there is slight beef with the cardigan. Many clients like to use them as a crutch to hide parts of their bodies they don’t like. Now, there’s nothing wrong with the cardigan itself, but the way it is commonly used does nothing for the wearer of the garment.

Like any piece of clothing in your chosen outfit, the cardigan should add and not subtract from the look, and using it to hide from the world is most likely not doing your outfit any benefits. It’s a cute, yet cozy add on. Treat it as such by opting for brighter, fun colors outside of your staple black, white, grey and cream. A cropped cardigan or one with a tie also allows you help accentuate the waist making it smaller. If you’re going to choose a longer option, then make sure it’s not too bag and that what you’re wearing underneath isn’t too baggy either. We don’t want your feminine shape to be lost in too much fabric.

Button Downs

A button down worn open is a breezier option if it’s still too warm outside for a cardigan. The similar rules apply when it comes to a button down. This shirt style can be worn with a more boyfriend cut, but, again, you have to be careful about keeping everything underneath fitted and smooth to the body. Have fun with color but you also have the option to play with textures. A faux or real leather — no judgment here — can create an edgy look without the commitment of leather jacket. Textures like suede, corduroy, silk, and linen are also options with their own feel and vibe. Suede, corduroy and linen feel relaxed, earthy and laid back aesthetic, while linen feels more luxe and feminine.

You’re winning the game if you can find a button down with a similar fit to this one on the left. The subtle rouching and defined waist built into the structure of the shirt will still be visible even when unbuttoned allowing for a sultry, feminine look that is simultaneously still relaxed and effortless.

Maxi and Midi Dresses and Skirts

Moving on from outerwear for the time being, let’s discuss you longer skirts and summer dresses. Do not pack them just because the weather is beginning to cool down. You can easily still wear these bottoms with all your fall and winter appropriate outerwear. Play with mixing the feminine and the masculine buy pairing your skirts and dresses with blazers or leather jackets (for those much cooler December nights). You can tuck in your chunky sweaters into skirts as well if you only want one layer.

Jackets

Lastly, the most obvious layering piece is the jacket. A well-fitting denim jacket is a staple for almost anyone’s closet. A denim jacket does dress down whatever you’re wearing. If you want to keep your outfit dressed up or don’t want to make an elevated outfit casual, then opt for a clean cut blazer with a good waist even when open. A blazer with a naturally defined waist will go with more items in your closet because you won’t have to compete with a boxy structure making you look shapeless with blousier tops or dresses. If blazers are not your thing, then a denim or non denim jacket in a color that is not a blue denim with clean, classic lines like the middle example can subtitle nicely.

Summary

So, when the sun decides to set and the cool air sets in, remember your what you place on top of your outfit is just as important as every other aspect of your outfit. Let these items be a playful and vibrant addition to your ensemble, a pop of color or texture that draws attention to your unique style. You use the cardigan wisely and not for hiding and embrace the many forms of a button-down. And when it comes to those longer skirts and summer dresses that you only love a few months out of the year, don't cast them away as the seasons shift; pair them with blazers or jackets for a fusion of femininity and edge. Fashion is more than just clothing. It’s how we project our personalities and self-expression. So, play with those cardigan and dresses, wear a chunky sweater with a skirt. Don’t limit your possibilities. Style knows no bounds, and you don’t have to either.