Gerik Parmele photos

On our model, Whitney Spencer: Embroidered tunic by Free People, $148 at Swank; open-toed shoes by Michael Antonio, $39 at Elly’s Couture; black wrap by Kensie, $88 at Swank. Below, black dress with floral appliqué by Yoana Baraschi, $416 at Manhattan Closet; black pumps by Nine West, $79 at Manhattan Closet.

Flowery prints have been huge this summer, with blooms splashing across dresses, skirts, blouses and even shoes and handbags. Florals will continue to be relevant throughout the fall and even winter but in different incarnations.

Instead of the hothouse brights, look for more muted tones such as gold, cream, burnt orange, blue, purple, brown and black to transition this look. These cool tones won’t look garish and out of place when the temperature drops.

"It’s going to be more season-appropriate," said Sarah Hodapp, owner of Manhattan Closet.

Although this summer’s florals have made flowers the focal point of the garment, this fall we can expect the opposite. The flowers will be present, but they might not be the most obvious thing about a piece. Appliqués and more subtle detailing don’t immediately leap out but still provide feminine flair.

Prints are becoming less realistic. Erin Keltner, owner of Swank, has seen floral silhouettes or burnouts against solid backdrops. "They remind me very much of vintage prints," she said.

Florals that appear to have been brushed onto the fabric also lend a more subdued look. "They blend with one another as opposed to single flower, single flower, single flower," Hodapp said.

To make sure florals transition between summer and fall, consider ways you can layer them. You can wear a dress with sandals now and then add warmer layers later.

"As far as summer into early fall, you can always do the denim jacket with the dark chocolate riding-boot look," said Amanda Schubring, manager at Elly’s Couture.

Accessories also can help a look transition from summer to fall. Look for scarves in cooler fall colors, and when your tan starts to fade, a little gold jewelry can brighten you up, Schubring said.

Beige dress with floral lace detailing by Rubber Ducky, $100 at Elly’s Couture.

Brown skirt by Isda & Co., $228 at Manhattan Closet.

Blue off-shoulder dress by Voom, $259 at Manhattan Closet.

Yellow dolman-sleeved top by Ella Moss, $88 at Swank.

Advertisement

Get your brain and body in shape. Food Wednesdays, Pulse Sundays and Sports daily. 13 weeks of everyday delivery for as little as 29¢ a day. Get the Tribune. Get a lot.