Summer Wardrobe in Winter

Tops that are too bare or thin for the fall and winter season make great layering pieces. With jackets or cardigans, you can extend the life of these tops by wearing them with long sleeve tees underneath.

-Cut the sleeves off of old pullover sweaters that are past their prime. Throw on a top from the summer, add the sleeves and throw on the jacket over it for extra warmth. Leave the sleeves inside the jacket when you remove it. And there you have it, instant pop of color when you let the sleeves show at the jacket cuffs. Instant warmth on a jacket that’s not quite heavy enough or “arm warmers” (a distant cousin of the leg warmer), which are super chic when worn alone. Make sure you bind the now disjointed shoulder seams since they have been separated and could unravel with excessive wear.

-Don’t be afraid to wear those short summer dresses with dark jeans or leggings underneath. Jeans can be made to look more sophisticated and dressed up with high boots over the knee and a light, unlined trench coat on top. Give your summer dresses a wardrobe extension by layering them with a tee or long sleeve blouse underneath. A tight or blousy sleeve underneath both look like you are thinking outside of your style comfort zone.

-Play it up with funky tights and shorts! Shorts are hot this season – Jean shorts or cotton shorts with brightly colored tights underneath and ankle boots add a splash of color to a grey winter day. If you’ve got the legs, then show them off! Increase your tights collection by getting some stirrup tights or large patterns or fishnets. Makes for a great conversation piece!

In addition to giving you a fresh outlook on fall while developing your sense of creativity and style, “stretching out” the summer styles will enable you to grow your wardrobe, especially if you purchase leftover summer stock to layer up into fall as well as for next year. Shopping off season is the best way to find the cheapest deals.