From Summer Suits to Fall Fabrics: How to Accessorize the Seasonal Shift

As the sun sets earlier and crisp mornings return, your wardrobe isn’t the only thing that should transition with the season; your accessories deserve an update, too. While summer is about lightweight linens and breathable cottons, fall brings in richer textures, deeper tones, and layered style. Knowing how to complement this shift with the right accessories is key to maintaining a polished, cohesive look.

At Trafalgar, we believe that the details make the man. Here’s how to transition your style from summer to fall with elegance, ease, and a touch of luxury.

 

1. Make a Statement with Texture and Bold Details

Fall fashion calls for texture, and your accessories should reflect that. Swap sleek summer leather for embossed leather belts in warm, earthy tones—think chestnut, oxblood, or deep mahogany. You can also consider woven or suede finishes for added visual interest against heavier fall fabrics like flannel or tweed.

One standout piece is the Chance Mock African Alligator Embossed Italian Leather Belt. Crafted in Italy, this belt features a mock alligator texture that adds depth and sophistication without overwhelming your outfit. It's the perfect bridge between polished and bold, making it ideal for pairing with wool trousers or your go-to dark denim.

The Armando Italian Suede 35 mm Feathered‑Edge Belt is a luxurious way to add seasonal texture and color to your wardrobe. Its soft suede finish brings understated refinement, while its hand‑crafted quality makes it versatile enough to wear with anything from tailored slacks to weekend chinos.

Braces are also back in full force for fall. Look for braces with grosgrain or wool-blend details that feel right at home with the season’s layered, tailored looks.

For a refined touch of structure, the Balint 38 mm Striped Non‑Stretch Grosgrain Ribbon Button‑End Braces provide both functionality and classic charm. Their tactile grosgrain ribbon feels right at home against heavier fall fabrics and adds a subtle pop of interest under a tailored blazer.

 

2. Seasonal Staples in Rich Colors

Autumn introduces a richer color story: burgundy, forest green, navy, charcoal, and golden brown. These hues should carry through to your accessories.

A belt in brown leather can complement both navy suits and casual denim. Our bestselling Classic Cortina Leather Belt has a range of brown color options from honey maple to mahogany. Its smooth leather construction and clean lines offer a sleek finish that pairs effortlessly with fall’s heavier wardrobe essentials.

To complete the look, introduce rich, subtle pattern into your sock drawer. The Oscar Windowpane Merino Wool Mid-Calf Socks in deep green are a seasonal standout—offering both warmth and style under your favorite oxfords or boots. The windowpane pattern adds visual interest without distracting, and the fine merino wool ensures breathable comfort all day long.

These accessories work together to ground your wardrobe in the deep, natural hues of the season—offering timeless versatility with a modern edge.

 

3. Mix Metals with Purpose

Fall is all about warmth—in temperature, texture, and tone. While silver and stainless steel dominated summer’s minimalist aesthetic, autumn calls for richer, golden-hued metals that echo the earthy palette of the season.

Swap out cool-toned accessories for cufflinks and tie bars in warm-tone metals like brushed gold, antique brass, or copper. These finishes complement the deeper colors and heavier textures typical of fall, such as tweed, wool, and flannel.

If you're styling a navy wool blazer, a burgundy tie, or a forest green jacket, our Sutton Round Gold Cufflinks will create a cohesive, polished look. These metals mirror the golden undertones in autumn’s landscape, giving your outfit a sense of seasonal harmony.

Aim for consistency: matching your belt buckle, watch, and jewelry accents in warm tones ties everything together. It’s a subtle shift—but one that adds intentionality and style to your cold-weather wardrobe.

4. Refresh Your Wallet and Everyday Carry

Your accessories should reflect not just your style—but the season. Trade your slim summer wallet for a full-grain leather bifold or front-pocket wallet in rich, autumn-ready tones. These are the pieces you use daily, so investing in timeless, well-made designs will carry you through fall and beyond.

A perfect example is the Lazzaro Lattice Weave Leather Bi-Fold Wallet. Its textured woven leather exterior and buttery soft interior strike a balance between function and elegance. With multiple card slots and a slim silhouette, it offers sophistication without the bulk—making it ideal for both weekday business and weekend leisure.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall doesn’t mean starting from scratch—it’s about upgrading the details. With textured finishes, richer tones, and carefully selected accessories, your seasonal style becomes more than just functional—it becomes a statement.

Explore our fall-ready accessories → https://www.trafalgarstore.com/collections/fall-favorites