The transition from summer to fall is by far the most difficult of the seasonal switches. Flip-flops and short shorts define the first, and then suddenly, we're all expected to change mindsets entirely, relying on sweaters, jeans, and boots out of the blue, all while the temperature outside is still warm at best, but likely blazing hot. Fortunately, some fashion people have figured it out, creating a science-like formula for transitional dressing, starting with Kaia Gerber. The supermodel and actress, in particular, has worked out the perfect closed-toe shoe style to wear with knee-length skirts once thong sandals have officially hit the point of needing to be stored away for next summer. Her footwear solution? Ballet pumps.
The Shards star recently debuted the transitional outfit in New York City, where the mindset has switched to fall but the weather hasn't. She donned a black knee-length skirt—a shape she wears throughout the year with different footwear—with a graphic, off-the-shoulder T-shirt, Fendi's new tiger-print Baguette bag, and a pair of her trusty ballet pumps, specifically, the Kaia Ballet Flats ($440) from Repetto. Naturally, Gerber finished off the look with a pair of corded headphones and chic sunnies.
Kaia Gerber's Transitional Outfit Formula(Image credit: The Image Direct)On Kaia Gerber: Fendi Baguette 26424 Tiger-Print Cavallino Leather Re-Edition Bag ($3700); Repetto Kaia Ballet Flats ($440)
What makes her skirt-and-shoe combo so perfect for transitional weather is that you don't have to sacrifice comfort to move away from summer sandals and into fall, closed-toe alts. Ballet pumps add a touch of formality, but they're still great for warm weather and allow you to skip your pedicure appointment. It's a win-win! Plus, the shoe style will ease you into more autumnal outfits, because you can later don it with jeans and trousers once the weather allows it. For an even more fall-ready look, opt for a suede pair in a warm shade, like chocolate brown, navy, or burgundy.
To get Gerber's look right now, a pair of ballet pumps and a knee-length skirt are your first two buys. Then, you can supplement with a DIY graphic tee—just rip or cut the neck so it becomes slouchier and more off-the-shoulder. Finally, add some old corded headphones and an animal-print shoulder bag (a Fendi Baguette is not required, but highly recommended). Voila! The perfect transitional outfit formula is solved.
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