It feels like an oven out there and I am daydreaming of cooler weather every single day. And judging by the fall imagery I’ve been seeing popping up on my feeds, I’m not the only one…

While cooped up at home due to the extreme heat, I have kept busy by looking for new places to explore and I can’t wait for these temperatures to subside so we can get to it. Realistically speaking, and from our experience here so far, that won’t happen for several more months — that’s just Florida living.

If you, however, find yourself somewhere not in the South and are getting a hint of coolness in the air, congrats — you’re so very lucky! Also, that means that you can start planning the pre-fall outfits to wear now and well into the season.

Generally, early fall signs mean cooler mornings and hot middays, with cooler weather coming back in the evening. Around this time you can start thinking of incorporating fine knits like short-sleeve or sleeveless sweater dresses (I love this one and this one), light or tweed jackets, short-sleeved sweaters, and lightweight knit tops to start with.

I have browsed some of my favorite retailers and selected a few items that I think will be great to wear for early autumn, as well as milder days later into the season.

With the exception of this dress (which is more suited for an occasion like attending a wedding), the items shown below are perfect for the office as well. To keep it professional, just throw a cardigan, lady jacket, or blazer over your shoulders, and you’re good to go. Speaking of office looks, this long vest is ideal for a fitted dress and would make for a chic outfit in and out of the office!

As far as footwear, if you’re looking for shoes to wear season after season, I recommend investing in Sarah Flint (code SARAHFLINT-CCMARIN3 will save you 15% on your purchase). For more affordable options, keep your eyes on Banana Republic Factory, J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, and, of course, T.J.Maxx and Marshalls.

Happy Pre-Fall shopping!