I Hate Summer—7 Pieces I Can't Wait to Wear Again This Fall
Our take
The collective sigh of relief as summer wanes is palpable, and it seems Kristina Ang isn't alone in her eagerness to trade sun-soaked days for the structured elegance of fall. Her recent piece, "I Hate Summer—7 Pieces I Can't Wait to Wear Again This Fall," taps into a sentiment shared by many who find themselves craving the return of richer textures, tailored silhouettes, and a general sense of polish. It’s a refreshing perspective; while summer fashion often prioritizes ease and breezy fabrics, the anticipation for fall’s inherent sophistication reveals a deeper desire for intentionality in personal style. This echoes a broader trend we’ve observed – a move away from fleeting trends and towards investing in timeless pieces that offer enduring appeal. Consider, for instance, the quiet resurgence of ballet flats, a trend we highlighted in "Sorry, Ballet Flats—Zoe Just Wore the Flat Shoe Trend I Honestly Never Expected to See Her In," demonstrating a return to classic footwear with a modern twist.
The piece’s appeal isn’t simply about the clothes themselves, but the feeling they evoke. It’s a rejection of the often-unruly nature of summer and an embrace of the deliberate construction and refinement associated with autumnal dressing. This aligns with the growing appreciation for “quiet luxury,” a style philosophy prioritizing quality over ostentation, and longevity over fleeting trends. We’ve seen this reflected in the continued popularity of elevated basics and investment pieces—items that form the foundation of a truly curated wardrobe. Furthermore, the piece's connection to the broader luxury landscape is undeniable. Ang’s focus on pieces she’s eager to re-wear speaks to a more conscious approach to consumption, a desire to maximize the value and lifespan of each garment. The luxurious haul featured in "*I CAN'T BELIEVE I GOT THIS!!* Luxury Haul ft. Ferragamo, fine jewelry & MORE!" provides a tangible example of this aspiration, demonstrating the allure of enduring quality and iconic designs.
The shift in focus from summer's ephemeral styles to fall's more enduring ones also speaks to a subtle but significant change in the fashion landscape. There's a growing fatigue with the relentless cycle of micro-trends and fast fashion. Consumers are increasingly discerning, seeking out pieces that reflect their personal values and offer lasting style. This isn’t about abandoning self-expression; rather, it’s about refining it through a lens of intentionality and quality. The desire for curated experiences extends beyond fashion, impacting travel, lifestyle, and all aspects of personal branding. It's about crafting a narrative that feels authentic and enduring, rather than chasing fleeting moments of viral appeal. The understated elegance of fall dressing provides a canvas for this kind of storytelling—a platform for showcasing individual style through thoughtfully chosen pieces.
Ultimately, Ang’s article is more than just a list of fall wardrobe staples; it’s a reflection of a broader cultural shift towards mindful consumption and enduring style. The anticipation for fall’s return signals a desire for structure, sophistication, and a return to classic aesthetics. As we move further into this era of conscious consumerism, what new materials and production methods will emerge to support the longevity and timelessness that define this evolving aesthetic?
Kristina Ang is a Who What Wear editor in residence, a fashion writer and content creator, and a social producer for Spotify. Previously, she worked as a social video coordinator at Harper's Bazaar.
Not to be dramatic, but summer might be my least favorite season of the year—the heat and humidity, mosquitoes… And don't even get me started about the high electric bills.
Maybe it's because I live in New York City, where waiting on the subway platform for the train somehow feels hotter than actually being outside. Even though it should feel easier (less clothes, less stress, or so you would think), getting dressed in the summer has become more of a chore for me than ever. I'm someone who likes to dress up, but ultimately, summer has a habit of finding me in the same tank top and jorts. Don't get me wrong. I love jelly sandals and a colorful summer outfit just as much as the next person, but every once in a while, I'd love to step out in an outfit and not come back with sweat stains.
The fleeting months between the blistering heat and treacherous cold are—dare I say—fashion's most fashionable. It's the brief window when a chunky-knit sweater can be paired with a barely-there lace skirt, an oversize trench can be draped over the simplest of looks and become the outfit itself, and a Canadian tuxedo suddenly feels right with a bright-red cardigan tossed over the shoulders. Are you excited yet?
Before we welcome cooler days, here are the seven early-fall pieces that have been on my mind all summer and will be welcomed with open arms the second it ends.
Kristina Ang's Fall Essentials
1. Colorful Tights
Gone are the days when tights only came in black, brown, and beige. Today's stockings are far more adventurous. Plus, they're practical, providing a light layer of warmth that makes them perfect for crisp fall nights.
2. Trench Coats
Light layers are essential for fall, and not many pieces do the job quite as effectively as a trench coat. It's that in-between moment when it's not quite cold enough to pull your puffer out of storage yet too chilly to get by with a cardigan alone. Pro tip: Shop vintage men's trench coats for an oversize and lived-in fit.
3. Knee-High Boots
The moment I can switch out my ballet flats and thong sandals for a great pair of knee-high boots is when I know that fall is officially here. Last year, Frye's beloved motorcycle boots made their comeback, and I expect to see the style continue to make its way onto the streets this season.
4. Fringe Bags
I was never much of a fringe girl in my formative years, but as my personal style has evolved, so have my tastes. Try incorporating an asymmetrical fringe top or boho fringe bag into your wardrobe this fall—you won't regret it.
5. Statement Outerwear
I very much treat my fall and winter outerwear like the main event of my outfit, whether we're talking about a multicolored shearling zip-up or a moto jacket. Outerwear is one of my favorite ways to incorporate more personality into my looks without sacrificing practicality or comfort.
6. Beanies
As someone who is devoted to having bangs for the rest of her life, wearing a beanie has become a serious commitment—an occasion of sorts. I've come to love the cozy accessory, but sadly, hat hair is very real, and it's the price we all have to pay. I guess that just means my beanies have to be especially stylish. That way, I never have to take them off.
7. Blazers
In addition to my glasses and bangs, I'd like to think blazers are the final puzzle piece of my signature look. You just can't go wrong with a white T-shirt, jeans, and a crisp blazer. These days, there's a blazer for everyone, whether you're into oversize men's blazers or a more structured fit with shoulder pads.
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience