MerchEntice: Bells and buckets

If there's any time of the year that can guarantee my participation in a global economy boost, it's the first temperature drop of the year. You can find me by the air vent at Forever 21, sweating it out in my dearly missed chunky sweater and boots long before the first leaf drops. I don't have the complexion that pairs well with the color palettes summer usually offers, nor the patience to wait until it is climately appropriate to wear my fall clothes. On days I decide against suffering a possible heatstroke at the expense of fall fashion fabrics, I do like to lace my agreed-upon temperature-appropriate ensemble with touches of fall in areas that don't affect my ability to breathe.

Silhouettes are a suffocation-safe way of transitioning out of summer when you really want to "fall," but not faint. Bell sleeves are a good way to play with trends -- the look of overall mass and layering that fall and winter silhouettes provide, but when done with proper fabrics, are breathable enough to create the illusion without the commitment to the unseasonable draping. I prefer bells from the forearm down, but am seeing them at various lengths, some starting at the shoulder. Wear it off-shoulder, in dress form, peplum, with pleats, or play with lace and chambray.

Danielle Haim of HAIM performs on day four of Lollapalooza on Sunday, July 31, in Chicago. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP)

Another way to dip your toes into fall is with your accessories. I'm seeing lots of chokers, boots and hats already, but I want to focus on my new fall favorite, the return of the bucket bag. Buy new, or hit up your favorite vintage resale store and upcycle this classic in suede or leather, with tassels or patches! It's roomy and has staying power -- exactly what you need for fall!

Blythe Danner attends the 25th annual Environmental Media Awards held at Warner Bros. Studios on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, in Burbank, California. (Photo by John Salangsang/Invision/AP)

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About Rachel

Rachel McNeely is a Realtor, stylist, jewelry specialist and writer. She has a degree in fashion merchandising from Southeast Missouri State University, and she loves any opportunity to interact with people and make them feel loved, beautiful and accepted.