Fact: Transitioning Your Knee-Length Skirts from Summer to Fall Necessitates This Particular Closed-Toe Footwear.

      The shift from summer to fall is arguably the hardest of seasonal changes. During summer, flip-flops and shorts are the norm, and then suddenly, everyone is expected to completely alter their wardrobes, opting for sweaters, jeans, and boots, even when the temperatures remain warm, if not sweltering. Thankfully, some fashion experts have cracked the code for transitional dressing, with Kaia Gerber at the forefront. The supermodel and actress has discovered the ideal closed-toe shoe style to complement knee-length skirts after it's time to store away thong sandals for the next summer. Her shoe of choice? Ballet flats. Gerber recently showcased this transitional outfit in New York City, where the mindset may have shifted to fall, but the weather has not. She wore a black knee-length skirt— a staple for her year-round paired with various footwear—along with a graphic, off-the-shoulder t-shirt, Fendi's new tiger-print Baguette bag, and her reliable ballet flats, specifically the Kaia Ballet Flats ($440) from Repetto. She completed the ensemble with classic corded headphones and stylish sunglasses.

      What makes her combination of skirt and shoes ideal for transitional weather is that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort as you move on from summer sandals to fall alternatives. Ballet flats bring a hint of elegance while still being suitable for warmer weather, allowing you to skip a pedicure. It’s a beneficial compromise! Moreover, this style will facilitate the transition into more autumn outfits, as you can easily pair them with jeans and trousers once the temperatures drop further. For a look that's even more autumn-appropriate, consider choosing a suede pair in a rich color like chocolate brown, navy, or burgundy.

      To achieve Gerber's look, the first two items you’ll need are a pair of ballet flats and a knee-length skirt. Next, you can enhance the outfit with a DIY graphic tee—simply cut or tear the neckline to make it slouchier and more off-the-shoulder. Finally, throw in some vintage corded headphones and an animal-print shoulder bag (while a Fendi Baguette is ideal, it’s not essential). There you go! The key formula for a perfect transitional outfit is complete.