With a closet dominated by warm-weather essentials– patterned tank tops, flowy skirts, and airy button-ups– I've been presented with the challenge of adjusting to the moody Parisian weather while studying abroad. This shift has inspired me to get creative with my styling, reimagining my closet for two purposes: keeping me warm from the cold outdoors while also preventing me from overheating in the non-AC classrooms here. I've curated some of my favorite transitional outfits, versatile wardrobe pieces, and fashion lessons from Parisians to help make your transition into fall fashion an easy one.

The Canadian Tux

Nothing says fall quite like a classic denim jacket. Cue what we call the Canadian Tuxedo– a denim-on-denim outfit that might seem bold, but it makes the perfect fall statement when done right. My favorite way to create this look is by pairing a jacket and jeans of similar shades. Here are a few styling tips to perfect your denim ensemble: First, opt for denim with visible grain, giving it an authentic, 'jean' look—avoid the smoother, synthetic types that lack that true 'jean' feel. Second, pay attention to the silhouette you're creating. I love pairing a fitted denim jacket with straight, low-rise jeans. However, a baggy-on-baggy combination is also foolproof. 

Those Boots Were Made for Walking

Boots are a quintessential autumn staple, and Parisians seem to wear boots with just about every outfit. I like to think of them as a stylish layer of comfort– when paired with a skirt, they offer just the right amount of coverage for brisk days, and when worn with pants, they provide an extra layer of warmth. This way, I can keep my summer skirts in rotation without sacrificing comfort. I scored my favorite Coach boots from a thrift, but some places to find a new solid pair of boots without breaking the bank are Steve Madden and Stradivarius.

The Bomber

Every wardrobe needs a bomber jacket– something I learned upon purchasing my first leather bomber this fall. Whether denim or leather, a bomber jacket effortlessly elevates any look, from baggy jeans to a mini skirt. Its comfortable fit also leaves room for cozy layering of a sweater or button-up underneath, ensuring warmth without sacrificing style.

Layering… for Pants

I know, I know—reliving the shorts-over-leggings or dress-over-jeans looks from childhood might seem crazy. But with a bit of thoughtful styling and a pinch of elegance, I think we were ahead of our time when we were ten! Instead of bright bottoms, opt for slacks or dark-colored pants as an easy foundation. I like to keep the rest of the outfit in neutral tones to create a cohesive silhouette rather than drawing attention to each individual piece. Try pairing a slightly flared skirt with simple straight-leg pants and a fitted top, or layer a dress over slacks with a jacket. It took me a few tries to play around with different items from my closet, but once you find the matching pieces, you have an elevated fall outfit!

Maximize the Maxi

Just because it’s getting cold doesn’t mean that you have to abandon your summer skirts! I find that flowy and midi/maxi skirts also have their place in my fall/winter wardrobe. Paired with seasonal essentials like boots, leg warmers, and trench coats, you can mix up your bottoms while staying cozy and stylish all season long. I love to pair a basic colored pleated skirt or a flowy patterned midi skirt with a sweater or button-up.

Pop of Color/Collar

The European fall uniform essentially consists of a relaxed sweater over a crisp button-up and straight-leg jeans. Adding my own twist to this effortlessly chic look on Europeans, I like to add a pop of color or a statement piece. Start with three layers: a neutral tank top as the base, a striped button-up for a playful touch, and a colored sweater or cardigan that compliments the layers under. This allows you to remove a layer when you’re feeling warm while still looking cute!