Transition Summer Knits into Fall

One of the best parts of knitting is how our handmade pieces can move with us from season to season. Summer is for light and breezy makes like tees, tanks, and shawlettes, but fall doesn’t mean packing them away. With just a bit of layering, those same knits can become the heart of cozy autumn outfits. We’ve been having fun styling our warm-weather projects for cooler days, and we’d love to share some of our favorite ideas with you.

The Riptide Slipover by Jennifer Shiels Toland is proof that one knit can do it all. Wear it solo while the sun’s still shining, then layer it up when the crisp fall air rolls in. We knit ours in Peninsula Yarn Velvet Merino DK, it’s cozy, versatile, and ready for sweater season.

Tees & Tanks: The Perfect Base

Just because summer’s wrapping up doesn’t mean your handknit tee has to go into hiding! It actually makes the perfect base layer for fall. Try a short-sleeved tee under a denim jacket, cardigan, or blazer for instant coziness. Tanks are great too - wear them under a button-up or with a favorite shawl for an effortless layered look. The same breathable fibers that kept you cool in August will keep you comfy as the weather turns crisp.

Avenue Tee by Tori Yu is a shop favorite - it's such a classic top that can be worn just about any season and honestly, with anything.  We knit this staple in Knitting for Olive Cotton Merino. How about a cute pair of booties and wool coat?

The Wavy Babe Top by Veronika Lindberg was such a standout this summer! Its playful texture and breezy feel make it a piece you’ll want to keep wearing well into fall. Try styling it with an aviator-style jacket, classic sneakers, and a pair of dangling earrings for an effortlessly cool vibe. 

Shawlettes + Scarves: From Accent to Essential

That lightweight shawlette or small scarf you reached for on breezy summer evenings? It’s about to become your best friend. Drape it over your shoulders, tie it bandana-style with a sweater, or wrap it twice around your neck for extra warmth. Shawlettes add a pop of color and texture to layered outfits, all while keeping the chill at bay.

Round up of some of our faves:

• Sophie Scarf by PetiteKnit - how could we not include this one? It’s quickly become a staple for so many and really is the quintessential transition accessory. Best of all, it can be knit in almost any yarn to suit your style. We especially love it in mYak Ra-Ku Cashmere Medium for an extra touch of luxury.
• Dew Drops Scarf by Lisa Hannes is pure elegance. We can picture this beauty tucked into a tailored coat for everyday polish or draped over an evening dress for a touch of sophistication. It carries an effortlessly classy vibe, especially when knit in a dreamy yarn like Camellia Fiber Company Sylvan, where the delicate texture and halo really shine.
• Beach Day Shawl by Sari Nordlund may have been made for warm, breezy afternoons, but it transitions beautifully into fall. Its generous shape makes it easy to wrap around your shoulders on cool evenings, while the airy fabric keeps it from feeling too heavy. Worked in Knitting for Olive Merino paired with Soft Silk Mohair yarn, it strikes the perfect balance of lightness and warmth.
• The Lone Skein Shawl by Joji Locatelli is a light, cozy, and the perfect autumn treat. Worn over your shoulders on late-summer nights or layered under a jacket in fall, it adds just the right pop of color, especially in a variegated yarn like Life in the Long Grass Fine Sock. A single skein, a few tassels, and you’ve got a go-to accessory that carries you right into autumn!

Your summer knits don’t have to be packed away when the weather changes, they just need a little styling magic. By layering tees, tanks, and shawlettes with cozy fall favorites, you can enjoy your handknits year-round. So, before you cast on something new, take a moment to celebrate the pieces you’ve already made and give them a new season to shine.

Which of your summer knits are you most excited to bring into fall? Let us know in the comments!