With a little relief from the summer scorchers coming hopefully soon, there is no time like the present to start thinking about a fall wardrobe. While cozy sweaters and classic trench coats will remain tucked away for a little while longer, it's time to focus on those must-have pieces that will smoothly transition us from scorching summer to those crisp fall days.

For recommendations, we turned to Houston stylist Paulina Padilla. Known for her modern aesthetic and talent for mixing luxury brands with ready-to-wear pieces, Padilla has worked with many of Houston's best-dressed fashionistas and popular retailers across the city.

Lucky for us, the pre-fall and fall collections have just hit the stores, shining a spotlight on those irresistible pieces we'll be rocking non-stop. So, here's the lowdown on five must-have items that'll help you breeze into the new season effortlessly, all while keeping your style game on point, of course.

Essential Item: White button down

Why we love it: This is a wardrobe staple that can be worn with shorts and sandals now and transition into fall by pairing back with jeans and boots. I love supporting local brands, and Mirth is right here in Houston. The Mirth Kyoto Blouse is available at the Mirth showroom.

Houston fashion brand, Mirth has a great classic button up to transition into fall. Photo by Mirth

Essential Item: Neutral colored dress

Why we love it: This one from Christy Lynn is a great print that can be worn now with summer sandals. To make this dress more appropriate for fall, I would add combat boots and a cardigan or denim jacket – transitioning from summer to fall is all about layering. The Christy Lynn Sammi Dress in ivory magnolia is available at Christy Lynn's boutique.

Add boots and a jacket to this dress to transition it from summer to fall. Photo by Christy Lynn

Essential Item: Silver bag

Why we love it: Silver is having a moment right now, and I am here for it. This bag is great because it is not only a top-handle purse but also a detachable crossbody strap – I love the ease of this bag for day or night. The Gracie top handle bag in metallic leather is available online or at J.Crew.

Silver is one of the colors for fall. Photo by J. Crew

Essential Item: Agolde T-Shirt

Why we love it: A good tee is seasonless – you can wear it on its own or layer it with a blazer, cardigan, denim jacket, etc. This one specifically is special because it is the perfect chocolate brown. This color has been around for a few seasons and doesn't seem to be going anywhere. The Agolde Drew Tee is available at Saint Bernard in River Oaks District.

A good tee is seasonless. You can wear it on its own or layer it with a blazer, cardigan, or denim jacket.Photo by Agolde

Essential Item: Cashmere Cardigan

Why we love it: A great neutral-colored cardigan is essential for transitioning from summer to fall because it can be paired with almost everything. A perfect closet staple, it is great for layering in Houston's unpredictable weather. The Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan in oatmeal is available at Jenni Kayne in River Oaks Shopping District.

A cashmere cardigan is the perfect closet staple, it is great for layering in Houston's unpredictable weather. Photo by Jenni Kayne