How to Dress for Fall in California (When It's Still 85 Degrees)
If you live in California, you know the problem. The calendar says fall, the stores are full of sweaters, and it's 85 degrees outside. Then the sun goes down and you need a jacket. Our fall is really two seasons in one day, and dressing for it is all about smart layers and the right fabrics.
1. Get the Fall Look With Color, Not Weight
You don't need wool to look seasonal. Deep red, burgundy, chocolate brown, olive and rust all say "fall" in a lightweight cotton, linen or silky fabric. A burgundy slip dress feels more autumnal than a heavy gray sweater, and you won't overheat.
2. Make Your Summer Dresses Work Harder
Your maxi and midi dresses don't have to go away in September. Add a denim jacket, a light cardigan or a suede jacket for the morning, then take it off at lunch. Swap sandals for ankle boots or loafers and the whole outfit shifts into fall.
3. Choose One Easy-Off Layer
The best California fall layer is one you can take off and carry. Open-front pieces like a waterfall jacket, a denim blazer or a light poncho are better than anything you have to pull over your head. Tie a cardigan over your shoulders when it gets warm.
4. Pick Breathable "Fall" Fabrics
- Suede and faux suede look rich but are lighter than leather.
- Cotton knits give a sweater look without the heat.
- Denim works year-round. A denim blazer is the perfect office layer for a warm fall.
- Velvet is best saved for evenings, when the temperature drops.
5. Save the Cozy Pieces for the Coast and the Night
The beach towns cool off fast once the marine layer rolls in, and the desert drops quickly after sunset. If you're heading to Santa Barbara, Carmel or Palm Springs this fall, pack the poncho or the leather jacket for evenings.
6. Shoes Are the Easiest Switch
Nothing changes an outfit's season faster than shoes. Ankle boots, loafers and clean sneakers make a sundress or shorts feel like fall, even when it's warm. Save knee boots for cooler days.
Three Outfits for a Warm Fall Day
- Work: denim blazer, silky camisole in burgundy, black trousers, loafers.
- Weekend: floral maxi dress, suede jacket for the morning, ankle boots.
- Evening out: velvet jumpsuit, light leather or denim jacket, heeled boots.
Every piece above is perfect for a California fall, and you can shop them on my Shop My Closet page.
