Summer Style Staples That You Can Layer in the Fall

Image via Complex Original

We recommend: T by Alexander Wang ($80)

Let’s start with the most basic summer item: the short-sleeve T-shirt. Whether it’s a basic or graphic design, this piece is extremely versatile and is the easiest garment to layer. It can be paired with a button-up, a sweater, or even a lightweight jacket (like the one featured below).

We recommend: Nike White Label Shacket ($215)

As we just mentioned, fickle weather is inevitable, and you’ll likely come across one of the days where it’s cold, but not too cold. A single layer won’t suffice, and a heavy-duty parka is just overkill. So why not keep a lightweight jacket on deck? Throw it over a tee, a sweatshirt, or even sharp blazer for an added layer of warmth. 

We recommend: Apolis ($74.99)

Now, we understand there’s a widespread notion within menswear that insists shorts are to be avoided at all costs. But we’re guys who perspire, and in an effort to prevent pools of butt sweat, we’re probably going to rock shorts from time to time—even during the early days of fall. They’re pretty easy to wear with your existing staples, like knits, cropped jackets, loafers, and sneakers; just make sure they’re a nice pair of cotton or linen joints—definitely not boardshorts. 

We recommend: Gitman ($165)

If you don’t have a proper white button-up in your wardrobe, then you need to cop one ASAP. These shirts are awesome because they can be worn with almost anything, making them the perfect layering piece any time of the year. Dress it up with a pair of slacks, a sharp blazer, and some boots. Dress it down with a pair of jeans, your favorite bomber, and some casual sneakers. It’s clean, classic, and a must-have to ensure you’re layering game is on lock.

We recommend: Visvim Jeans ($580)

What can we say about jeans that hasn’t already been said? There’s a reason why this garment has endured decades of style shifts. Jeans look good with pretty much everything, be it basic tees and all-over print sweatshirts, or proper dress boots and high-end sneakers.

We recommend: Jordan Air Imminent ($120)

Every guy should have a pair of clean, white sneakers in his footwear rotation. There isn’t anything particularly flashy or neck snapping about these shoes. They’re just nice, simple kicks that can be worn with anything from basketball shorts to even a casual suit; however, in some circles (very old-school circles), the rule is that you shouldn’t rock white footwear after Labor Day. But rules were made to be broken, and the classic-white sneaker deserves to get some fall action.

We recommend: Incotex ($380)

You know what also looks dope with clean, white sneakers? Chinos. They’re perfect for the summer because they’re durable, comfortable, and a nice alternative to jeans. They’re also crafted from 100 percent cotton, making them extremely breathable during those warmer days. You can rock them with almost everything, including a button-up, a sweatshirt, a casual blazer, or a mix of all three. 

We recommend: Our Legacy ($141)

Ever wonder why so many brands include sweatshirts in their summer collections? It’s because they know how unpredictable the weather can be, and want to make sure you’re covered for any and all conditions the season might present. Take advantage of their consideration and incorporate these staples into your fall wardrobe. 

We recommend: Lacoste Jersey Hoodie ($85)

Much like the sweatshirt, the hoodie is often seen among summer selections. But many brands present them in lightweight versions appropriate for the summer heat. Worn alone, they might not provide much warmth; however, their thinness make them easy to layer underneath most outerwear pieces. And did we mention how damn cozy these are? They’re nice for those colder lazy days spent around the apartment, but can also be worn out with a nice pair of jeans and your go-to pair of sneakers.  

We recommend: Everlane ($35)

Henleys are great because they’re very comfortable, versatile, and a dressier alternative to the traditional T-shirt. Long-sleeve versions provide extra coverage and can be worn with a sweater, blazer, or even a denim jacket like the one featured next.

We recommend: Marc by Marc Jacobs ($228)

Ahh, the plaid shirt. It’s a classic piece that can stand well on its own. But for the summer-to-fall transition, guys can utilize this shirt as a nice layering piece—rocking it under jackets, blazers, and clean sweatshirts. It’s a good substitute for the all-white button-up, especially if you want to add color and more patterns to your look.  

We recommend: A.P.C. ($319.47)

This is probably one of the best transitional pieces you can own. The denim jacket has been a wardrobe staple for many generations, mostly because it’s so easy to wear. Available in a wide range of washes and cuts, this item can be paired with simple tees, thick sweatshirts, and even beneath chunkier outerwear. It’s definitely a piece you’ll want to keep in rotation well after fall has begun.