That dress you lived in all summer? It doesn’t have to go into hibernation just because the leaves are turning. With a few clever swaps and layers, your favorite warm-weather piece can easily become a fall staple. Here are five ways to make it happen without buying a whole new wardrobe.

1. Layer a Chunky Sweater Over It

This is the easiest trick in the book. Take a cotton or linen summer dress and pull a thick knit sweater right over the top. Let the hem of the dress peek out below the sweater for a relaxed, layered look. If the dress is sleeveless, even better. The sweater becomes your warmth, and the dress becomes a skirt. Add ankle boots and you’re done.

2. Add Tights and Tall Boots

Bare legs are for July. Come October, reach for opaque tights in black, navy, or burgundy. Slide into knee-high or over-the-knee boots. A flowy midi dress with tights and boots suddenly reads as intentional and cozy, not summery at all. Pro tip: match your tights to your boots for a longer, leaner line.

3. Throw on a Denim or Leather Jacket

A cropped denim jacket gives a summer dress instant autumnal energy. Swap it for a moto leather jacket when you want something edgier. Leave the jacket open so the dress still shows, and roll the sleeves if it’s still mild outside. This combo works for lunch dates, farmer’s markets, and casual Fridays.

4. Swap Sandals for Ankle Boots and Add a Scarf

Your feet set the season. Trade your flat sandals or wedges for ankle boots, Chelsea boots, or even lug-sole boots. Then tie a lightweight scarf around your neck. A silk or cotton scarf in a fall color (rust, mustard, olive) bridges the gap between the dress’s breezy fabric and the cooler air. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

5. Belt It and Add a Long Cardigan

If your dress is loose or shapeless, cinch it with a wide leather belt at the waist. Then layer a long, open cardigan over the whole thing. The cardigan acts like a lightweight coat, and the belt gives structure. This works especially well with maxi dresses. Finish with a structured tote bag and you’ve got a polished fall outfit from a summer piece.