While fall may officially start on September 22, let’s be honest, LA never seems to get the memo. We’re over here melting in 104° October heat while trying to wrangle our families into “cozy” sweaters for holiday photos. Not exactly the vibe we’re going for, right?

I get it. You want the fall look without sweating and without your kids complaining that they’re itchy, hot, and over it. And trust me, your husband will thank you too when he’s not melting in a wool sweater.

So here’s my solution: LA-style fall layering. Think of it like styling hacks from a personal stylist. You want light, breathable, still giving that cozy fall feel without the meltdown (literally). I’ve also added some of 2025 “it” colors in here for you so that you can choose to coordinate with those as well!

Let’s break it down!

Tips for LA “Fall” Outfits That Actually Work

Light Layers, Not Heavy Sweaters
- Swap out thick knits for cotton cardigans, linen-blend button-downs, or lightweight dusters.
- You can take them on and off easily during the shoot
Fall Colors Do the Work
- Think deep greens, burgundy, mustard, navy, and cream
- Start with a foundation of Mocha Mousse Brown, Almond Milk White, or Moonstruck Gray for that warm, grounded feeling. These earthy neutrals read cozy without the insulation
- Then, weave in bold accents like Cherry Red, Pistachio Green, Dusty Rose, or Eggplant Purple
- Even if the fabric is thin, the color will instantly give “fall vibes”
Play with Textures & Patterns
- Try plaid, ribbed cotton, corduroy, chambray, or even faux suede
- These add the look of cozy without the sweat
- Throw in a scarf or hat in Poppy Red or Damson for a mini pop that reads fall, not sauna
Fabrics That Breathe
- Stick to cotton, rayon, or light linen blends
- Avoid wool, polyester, or heavy knits unless you want to feel like a baked potato

Outfit Inspo

For Mom

A flowy midi dress in a fall color (rust, olive, or Damson).
- Pair with ankle boots and a light cardigan you can toss on for a few shots
Wide-leg jeans + a lightweight blouse with a plaid scarf for texture
Shop: Madewell, Anthropologie, Target (A New Day line)

For Dad

Lightweight chinos in navy or tan with a short-sleeve henley in a neutral tone (Mocha Mousse Brown, cream, or charcoal)
- Add a cotton button-down layered open on top
Dark jeans + a plaid shirt in breathable cotton
- Roll up the sleeves for that “relaxed but pulled together” look
Shop: J.Crew Factory, Old Navy, Banana Republic Factory

For Girls

A cotton pinafore dress layered over a short-sleeve top, paired with ankle boots or flats
- Add a pop of Pistachio Green or Dusty Rose – light and refreshing, but still seasonal
A flowy skirt in fall tones with a light chambray shirt
Add a felt hat or hair bow for accessories
Shop: Zara Kids, H&M, Target Cat & Jack

For Boys

Khaki shorts or lightweight pants with a cotton plaid shirt (roll sleeves up)
A neutral t-shirt with suspenders (so cute for littles!) and a lightweight cardigan if needed
Shop: Old Navy, Zara Kids, Gap Kids

Quick Styling Hacks for the Whole Family

Stick to 2-3 colors so your family looks coordinated but not matchy-matchy. Start with a base of Almond Milk White or Moonstruck Gray and then add a pop of Future Dusk Blue or Cherry Red.
Layer with accessories like scarves, hats, or light jackets instead of heavy knits.
Shoes matter! Boots (ankle, Chelsea, combat) always pull together the fall vibe.
Keep the kids comfy. If it’s scratchy or tight, they’ll let you know, and no one wants that mid-session meltdown.

So yes, LA might laugh in the face of “sweater weather,” but that doesn’t mean you can’t still rock those cozy fall vibes in your family photos. With a little smart layering, you’ll look like autumn magic while staying cool, calm, and (mostly) complaint-free.

Ready to plan your fall family session? I’ll guide you every step of the way, including outfit inspo so you don’t have to stress! Let’s chat and make your dreamy fall family photos a reality.

See some recommended color palette options below, all from real shoots with real families!