Summer: Forever21 shorts / Tinley Road chevron necklace / Old Navy tami (tank + cami) / Guess flip flops / Fall layers: Old Navy cardigan / Forever21 layered necklace / Forever21 striped knit tights / Steve Madden oxfords

One of my favorite things about fall is the layers that go along with it. As it slowly gets cooler, we pile on more and more pieces to stay warm–which means we really get to experiment with what’s inside our closets.

The look I put together here is the perfect example of what I mean. It’s a mish mash (which, I’ll have you know, is a seriously technical term) of some of the most versatile pieces you could own.

If you’re trying to save some money, there’s no reason to run out and buy a whole new wardrobe for fall. Instead, shop your closet and add fall colors and textures to your summer faves. Think chunky knits and jewel tones mixed with some of summer’s bright colors. Cobalt is one of the best transitional colors. It goes as well with summer’s carefree tropical palette as it does with fall’s deeper jewel tones.

I am seriously cheap and trying to get on a tight budget, so I will most definitely be using this little tip in the coming weeks. In fact, if I invest in anything this fall it will probably just be a pair of oxfords. I’m kind of obsessed.

How do you transition to cooler temperatures? Are there any pieces that are on your must-have list this fall?

Kate Beckinsale has been looking amazing on her Total Recall publicity tour. Seriously amazing. My absolute favorite look so far has been an H&M/Diane von Furstenberg combo that she wore for interviews in Dublin.

While the skirt is kind of a weird length, it’s my only complaint about this look. I love the top tucked in and loosely draping over the waist of the fitted skirt. It’s a gorgeous silhouette. But my favorite part about this look is the color combo. It’s bright and cheery and so incredibly summery. I want it in my closet!

office: H&M sleeveless blouse, ModCloth skirt | date: ModCloth dress, Michael Antonio heels | errands: Mossimo Supply Co. tank, Mossimo Supply Co. shorts

Are you as obsessed as I am?

With September starting to breathe down my neck, I’m getting serious about working on our summer must-do list. We took our little getaway, swimming lessons are done and summer camp is also officially checked off. We have the rest of August to get through what’s left of our little list. It includes places like zoos, a museum, and a carousel ride–all of which require a certain amount of walking.

My tried and true Gap flip flops are taking their last gasping breaths (I’m just hoping they last until the end of the summer when I plan to retire them). Plus, they kind of suck for anything that requires more than minimal walking.

So, I’ve rounded up a bunch of cute shoes (some of which are from brands that might surprise you!) that can go anywhere your feet may take you–in comfort and style.

Crocs

Dr. Scholl’s

Saucony

Payless

TOMS

Vans

Sperry Topsider

Is there a particular brand of shoe that’s your go-to when it comes to comfort? I’m pretty fond of my TOMS, they never seem to disappoint–plus for every pair you buy a pair is donated to a child in need. You can’t really go wrong with that!

I don’t want summer to end either. But if you’ve stepped into any store recently, you’ve had fall all but shoved down your throat. I’ve been reluctant to jump on the train, but all this fall fashion has me creating a little must-have list in my brain.

And if it’s in there, why not share it? Without further ado, here is a round up of my top five fall essentials…

I realized this week that I’ve been seriously lacking in the jewelry department. While this is no tragedy, it’s kind of strange for someone who used to make jewelry. Lately, I’ve been wearing my Anjolee studs and adding the occasional arm party, but that’s pretty much where it has stopped.

I’m thinking this should change. And immediately.