Build a Wardrobe That Changes With the Seasons

#Fall arrived a bit early at The Organizing Blog’s headquarters last week. Rain blew in, and the daily high temperatures quickly tumbled from the 80s to the 60s, just in time for the official first day of #autumn.

While it’s offering a pleasant enough respite from the #summer heat, the sudden change had many of us scrambling for the sweaters, jackets and flannel sheets. Were we really ready for summer to be over — and are we equipped to handle the cooler weather?

One thing that can help cope with #seasonal changes in the weather is a wardrobe that converts easily to the climate realities outside your door. When you can #streamline the contents of your closets, #drawers and #storage bins, it becomes much simpler to dress for the weather.

A “capsule” wardrobe made up of a small number of versatile garments can help, says Charlie B. Concentrate on quality staples that work year-round — five pairs of pants, two pairs of shorts, five sweaters, 10 tops, three jackets and a warm winter coat is a good start.

“The key is balance — enough variety so you don’t feel bored, but not so much that your closet becomes overwhelming. Each piece should be able to mix and match, giving you casual and dressy looks without requiring constant shopping or seasonal overhauls.”

Layer and accessorize to cover multiple seasons and all kinds of occasions. You’ll soon find that much of the #clothing in your closet is redundant — and that you need to buy fewer items when you concentrate and high-quality, versatile pieces.

Granted, you may need to #declutter before you can go full-on #minimal. As you bring more fall items into the rotation, says Living a Life More Organized, take Marie Kondo’s advice and examine one category of clothing at a time: coats, knits, pants, dresses, etc.

Does each item still meet your needs, or is it too worn, loose, tight, boring or trendy? Do you have other things like it that you enjoy more? Did you wear it in the last year? Is it just taking up closet space, or does it truly “spark joy”?

Let go of the also-rans by #donating them to ClothingDonations.org, and you will instantly create #space for your ideal capsule wardrobe and personal style while helping the nation’s #veterans. And you’ll face fewer #fashion dilemmas with a wardrobe that changes just as fast as the seasons!

Beat the Holiday Shopping Crowds

With prices rising rapidly and the #holidays on the horizon, you might want to start #shopping early. Stock up on any ingredients you might need for your #fall feasts and baking before the supplies run out, and hit the malls ahead of the crowds. You can #save #money and beat the rush by looking for lightly used cold-weather gear such as sweaters and coats (and maybe a few #gifts) at the local #thrift and #secondhand stores supplied by your generous #donations to ClothingDonations.org now. Resale proceeds go toward the support of valuable #veterans programs nationwide. #FallActivities

Inexpensive and Fun Fall Activities

You don’t have to break the bank to have a little #fall fun. Cheap or free things to do include taking a nature walk; spending a day at the local café or reading a book; having a spooky-seasonal movie night; whipping up a batch of soup, chili or cookies; crafting; or playing a game of touch football. Another great thing to do is overhaul your #clothing closets and dresser drawers to meet the cooler weather efficiently. “It’s a wonderful time of year to #donate clothes to those in need,” says The Every Girl. “Spend a weekend getting recentered for a new season and give back at the same time.” #FallActivities

Brave the Fall Temps With Friends

Feel like you’re stuck inside with the blustery #fall weather? You don’t have to go it alone, says Real Simple. Invite friends to brave the cooler temperatures with you at a tailgate party, hayride, ghost tour or backyard bonfire. If you’re feeling more indoorsy, invite them to go antiquing, visit a local microbrewery or join a potluck dinner. Many areas of the country are having their final farmers markets of the year, but you can still spotlight healthy fall produce such as squash, root vegetables, spinach, pears and apples. You can even pick your own! #FallActivities

Peak Fall Colors Are Happening Now

Summer may be over, but #autumn offers plenty of things to do for young and old. Perhaps the most iconic is to take a hike or drive to see the leaves change color from lush greens to bright yellows, oranges and reds. “Leaves can change their color from as early as mid-September all the way through early November,” says Almanac.com. “Typically, the second and third weeks of October are the peak times, but prime foliage schedules will shift depending on where you live and your local weather conditions.” Weather plays a role in how vibrant your foliage looks, favoring cool nights, sunny days and moderate rainfall. #FallActivities