Adding Autumnal Layers to a Summertime Skirt

In case you guys missed it, Kathryn did a great slideshow last week on how to keep wearing lightweight summertime dresses even after the weather gets chilly. And I was so inspired by her fab outfits (and so insanely, desperately jealous of her awesome Frye boots), that this time around, I decided to give her layering tricks a try.

Unoriginal? PFFT. You say "unoriginal," I say "homage to a style CHAMPION."

Fortunately, I already had a piece in mind to give the summer-to-fall treatment: the gorgeous French Connection skirt I picked up on super-sale at TJ Maxx. I think it could be quite a versatile addition to my closet. The material is a lightweight silk, making it breathable and breezy for warm weather, but the length and drape of it make it perfectly on trend for fall. (Actually, swingy below-the-knee skirts seem to be a Thing this season. Stylewatchers, take note.)

And here's the outcome! A white blouse, a long cardigan, a waist-defining belt, and a pair of booties—and hey, check it out, I'm all set for autumn. I'm also loving how easily a few layers can change the character of a piece like this; with strappy sandals and a floaty camisole, this would have been a very feminine, fluttery summer look. But now, I feel distinctly librarian-esque. I think I'll throw on a pair of sexy spectacles, go grab a coffee and a book, and spend the day being stylishly academic on a bench somewhere.

Head to toe: Cardigan, H&M; belt, Urban Outfitters; blouse, BCBG outlet; skirt, French Connection via TJ Maxx; boots, Target.

Did you try out Kathryn's layering tips? How'd they work out for ya?

Related Slideshow: How to Wear Your Summer Dresses Into Fall