Fall trends are in full swing. But some parts of the country haven’t gotten the memo that we’ve swapped seasons. Even though I was layering like crazy this past weekend in New York, I returned home to Los Angeles to a heat wave. If it’s still hot where you are, here are three tips on how to dress like it’s fall when it still feels like summer:

Tip #1: Go for dark colors.
Pick a darker color scheme. I went with head-to-toe black, a major trend this season. But you could also do burgundy, gray or olive. For a full list of color ideas, check out my shopping guide on Pantone’s Top 10 Fall Color Trends.

Tip #2: Utilize lightweight layers.
Look for fabrics that will keep you cool while still giving the illusion that you’re covered up. During hotter fall months, I’ll often opt for lace sleeves on tops and blouses. This season I wanted to switch things up with the mesh trend. It felt like a sportier version of my feminine fave. I found this mesh trench coat and layered it over a silk cami and skinny jeans. It gives a dark, fall vibe while allowing for ventilation, perfect for this lingering heat!

Tip #3: Make a statement with your accessories.
Channel the new season with one statement piece. I did an animal clutch with edgy studs. Some other options to try: a shoe or bag in a trendy fall color, plaid, faux fur, velvet or an extreme animal print.

The great thing about these separates is whenever it does cool down,  you can always layer them with warmer pieces to look Fall ready when it actually feels like the season! When this heat wave goes away, I can swap my cami for a ribbed knit to allow a pop of color to peek through the mesh coat. Then I’ll trade my sandals for boots to step into colder weather.

Photos by Jodee Debes

Jacket: Forever 21
Top: J. Crew
Jeans: Hudson (on sale!)
Bag: C MPL T UNKN WN
Earrings: Gold Philosophy
Necklace: Maya Brenner
Rings: Stella & Dot and Charming Charlie
Shoes: Steve Madden
Nails: Essie “Chinchilly”
Makeup: Kristina Goldberg