Looking to squeeze a few more weeks out of your summer clothes but unsure how to wear them without getting goosebumps? Style mavens say it’s time for transitional wardrobes, which are all about layering. In honor of the turning of the leaves, we asked stylish Washingtonians (including a few from the best-dressed list in our upcoming October issue!) how they’re bringing their August closets into autumn. Read on for looks inspired by their words of wisdom.

European Chic

Lindsay Czarniak, sports anchor, NBC4

Lindsay’s advice:
“This season, I’ve set aside two sundresses that aren’t going to hibernate inside my storage unit. They’re perfect for layering over jeans and under a cool leather jacket—the trick is to make sure the jacket allows the right amount of skirt to show. Top it off with a cool scarf and you’re good to go. The look is very European with a touch of summer color, and it’s even suitable for football games.”

How we worked it:
We paired a breezy two-piece dress—one of summer’s biggest trends—with a buttercream motorcycle jacket for cooler weather. Cuffed jeans keep legs warm and showcase punchy flats, while hammered hoop earrings and a lightweight scarf add an air of Italian chic. Matching ruffle details on the shoe and top help to reign in a multi-tonal color palette, and the bold zipper hardware of the jacket de-sweetens a wardrobe full of preppy basics.

RicRac Pendulum Dress, $128.
DOMA Leather Motorcycle Jacket, $620.
Paige Premium Denim Blue Heights Cuffed Skinny Jeans, $168.
Forever21 Double Hoop Texture Earring, $3.80.
Forever21 Solid Woven Fringe Scarf, $7.80
Steve Madden Florale Flat, $89.95.

>> Next page: Tips from former Miss DC Kate Michael