The second part of my challenge to myself in September (the first part being shopping) was to figure out some layering formulas that worked for our varied autumn climate. In the fall, we regularly have temperature swings of 30-40°F between morning and mid-afternoon, and I wanted to learn how to get through my days without changing clothes.
It sort of worked. I tried a lot of formulas, but I'll confess, I had a really hard time finding any single outfit that was perfectly comfortable for temps of both 55° (13°C) and 90° (32°C). I usually opted for hot in the afternoon over cold in the morning, mostly because I like my fall clothes better.
Here's what I tried.
Formula #1 - Denim jacket or blazer over tee/tank (scarf if necessary) - Photo 1, 13, and 14
This worked okay, but only if it didn't get too hot in the afternoons. It's easy to throw on a denim jacket when going outside, but not so great for just wearing around the house on chilly mornings.
Formula #2 - Cardigan over tank, with scarf for coverage - Photo 2
I liked this one. I prefer tanks to longer sleeves under knitwear, and a lightweight scarf isn't too much, even for warm afternoons. I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing this in professional environments, but luckily, those environments are usually air-conditioned. The scarf worked well with tank in formulas #1 and 3, as well
Formula #3 - Button-down over tee/tank (with scarf if necessary) - Photos 3-8
In case you couldn't tell, this is my absolute favorite for working at home (also for hiking!). It probably doesn't look as great as more structured toppers, but it's comfortable, simple, and easily adaptable.
Formula #4 - Jacket over silk blouse - Photo 9
This worked better than expected. I'm not entirely comfortable in silk for all my activities, but it worked amazingly well at a variety of temperatures.
Formula #5 - Denim jacket over lightweight sweater - Photo 10
Okay for cooler days and I liked the look, but too hot for these wide swings.
Formula #6 - Jacket over dress - Photos 11 and 12
One of the few formulas that was cold in the mornings rather than hot in the afternoons, probably because I was adapting summer outfits for fall, rather than vice versa.
Thoughts? Any better suggestions?
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