By Liesel Schmidt, Blue Bay Lifestyle Co./Run With It
When it comes to fall fashion, Floridians are latecomers to the game. As much as we may love getting to break out the boots and the chunky knits, we have to wait until the heat dies down before we get to bring our fave fall pieces out into the light of day. Still, as we transition into the crisp (read: less sweltering) autumn months, we can ease our way into wearing those cozy clothes we adore so much.
September in Florida means football, peak hurricane season, and temps that make you wonder if a cool-down will ever come. Summer dresses are still in heavy rotation, because of the heavy humidity and high heat index. Just stay away from anything that looks overly summery. Think darker colors and pair with a cute pair of sneakers or…you guessed it, boots! Boots could slide that dress right into late fall wear, if they’re not lined. If and when (here’s hoping) things get a little cool, toss on a cute denim jacket. We love the dark wash from Liverpool, with just enough stretch to give it a chic shape.
With temps still hovering above what one would expect with the return of pumpkin spice everything, avoid tight-fitting clothes that trap heat. If you’re pulling on jeans, look for flare legged, bootcut, and “dad” styles—all of which are looser and help minimize sweating. Athleisure is also always a good choice for September, and we can’t get enough of Vuori’s line of Performance Joggers and buttery soft shirts for casual daily wear.
Layering is your friend during the transition to fall, and sleeveless shirts can walk right with you into autumn as a layering piece under lightweight button downs, denim jackets, or boyfriend cardigans. As cooler temperatures creep in, try a turtleneck under a slip dress for a classic look that’ll also keep the chill out. Toss on a pair of booties, and you’re ready for anything.
White after Labor Day? Toss out that old rule! Those white jeans you love for summer can still come out and play, if you pair them with the right pieces. Three-quarter sleeved tops, sweaters (Liverpool’s selection is a must-try), cardis, denim jackets…They all make a great pairing with slim silhouette white jeans. Layer up with neutrals and textures that usher your white bottoms into the new season.
Accessory-wise, crossbody bags are here to stay. We love the look of leather for fall, and Hobo has some sweet little bags you’ll want to get your hands on. Hats are a yes as well, from cowboy to Newsboy and flat caps. Top it all off with layered necklaces (We have some you’ll absolutely fall for, pun intended) and a great pair of earrings for a look worthy of a chef’s kiss.
Find your fall clothing and accessories at Blue Bay Lifestyle Co., 27 Racetrack Rd NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547. Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sunday.
@bluebaylifestyle, Facebook.com/BlueBayLifestyleCo, bluebaylifestyle.com.
