Transitioning into Autumn

i'm popping in from my moving box-ridden to share some of my favorite items in my closet right now for transitioning into autumn. it's hard to believe that we're almost into september. seriously, am i the only one that feels like we went straight from Easter to Labor Day, skipping summer altogether? it's crazy.
anyway, we're expecting some cooler temps in Chicago this week, which actually has me pretty excited. it's been hot, humid, and rainy here the past few days and i'm ready for a cool off. with chillier temps comes the need to brainstorm new outfit ideas and pull out some of my favorite cool weather items to wear.

patterned long-sleeve blouses // i love pairing these with shorts and a pair of flats or heels for dinner with a friend or a night out with Mike. i also like to layer these under cardigans or sweaters (when it's really chilly) and rolling the sleeves a coupe times to show the pattern on the blouse.
destructed denim shorts // i've been all about the destructed denim shorts this summer. i like that they can be dressed up or down, deepening on what you pair them with. with a simple pullover sweater and flats or a fun blouse and heels, these shorts play double-duty. they help me feel a bit more casual, which i like.
pullover knit sweaters // i've already gotten quite a bit of use out of this sweater i found in the J.Crew sale section in the spring. i like to pair it with a white tank and maxi skirt for cooler days. it's also cute with a collared shirt underneath and statement necklace for a bit of a preppier look.
cotton pencil skirts // this skirt is the ultimate all-purpose skirt in my wardrobe. weather it's paired with a lace crop top, a button-down chambray blouse, a pullover knit sweater, or graphic tee, it's ultra-versatile and super comfortable. when it gets into the 50's, i'll pair it with booties and a scarf, too.
lightweight scarves // i'm a scarf-wearer, through and through. i would wear one everyday if i could. i prefer to wear pattern and muted colors, so that the scarf can add some interest to my outfit without being distracting. for the later summer evenings when the temps get into the high 60's, i like to pair a scarf like this with my jean shorts and tees or with a simple cotton dress.
printed flats // along with scarves, i'm also a compulsive flats-wearer. i tend to have perpetually cold feet, so these babies come in handy when it starts to get a little cooler. when i saw these in the store, i knew they'd be the perfect addition to my autumn and fall wardrobe.
what are you looking forward to wearing this autumn?