As regular readers of Who What Wear UK will know by now, we pride ourselves on our ability to search through the runways and street style to bring you the most relevant trends for the season ahead, but none more so than when it comes to helping you build a hardworking wardrobe with pieces that will stand the test of time. Whilst buzzy new trends come and go, we will always advocate for the kind of clever shopping that allows you to buy less and wear more, and looking to our sources for tips on what to wear in autumn/winter 2024 and beyond, we were not disappointed with the results.
Last year was a great year for building timeless looks, and so chances are you already own some of the year's heavy hitters, like the boxy blazer, the perfect white tee and the crossbody bag. But if you're looking to build on those this year, you've come to the right place. We've put together a list of versatile basics that we spotted on the runways that manage to build a capsule all of their own, and if you add these to what we've already picked up over the past 12 months, you're onto a winner.
Keep scrolling to see the eight pieces that are already being spotted everywhere for 2024, and beyond. Who knew it would be so easy to re-create 2024's biggest trends with less than 8 items?
Autumn/Winter 2024 Capsule Wardrobe Pieces:
1. Kitten-Heel Boots
Style Notes: One of the more subtle shoe trends of 2024, the kitten-heel boot continues to strike the perfect balance between dressy and comfortable. Everything from low-heeled ankle boots to statement thigh-highs are on our wish lists this year, and what better shoes to invest in than ones you can wear time and again without the need for blister plasters?
Shop Kitten-Heel Shoes:
Decisions, decisions… these also come in mahogany and cream suede.
There's always a need for brown patent boots.
Ticking off two trends in one.
Elevate the everyday with this pair.
2. Scarf Jackets
Style Notes: You'd have to be living under a rock to not notice that scarf-detail clothing has been a huge trend over the last few years and while it's not going anywhere anytime soon, it has had a major boot for winter 2024 with both luxury and high-street stores creating their own takes on the style. Elegant, classic and timeless, a scarf jacket is the perfect way to add luxurious edge to an otherwise basic capsule.
Shop Scarf Coats:
The Toteme scarf coat has been credited for starting this classy trend.
I can picture wearing this for work and on weekends.
The perfect finishing touch to an autumnal outfit.
The quality of the fabric and cut of this one make it a wise investment.
3. Loose-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: If 2021 saw the return of the skinny, and 2022 was all about the straight-leg, this year continues 2023's baggy jean adoration. Although the runways tried to convince us that we'd all be wearing low-slung jeans, we prefer something a little more wearable, and the looser wide-leg style is right up our street. This roomier, more casual fit is perfect to pair with a tank top or tee in summer and cashmere knits in autumn.
Shop Loose-Leg Jeans:
The grey wash really takes these up a notch.
This pair is flying.
Just the right amount of slouch.
A real Nineties vibe.
4. Cosy Knits
Style Notes: Thanks to pared-back brands like The Row, and Khaite, we're turning to soft knits over tailored shirts this season for an easy layering piece that still looks polished. Take tips from fellow stylish people like Danielle by wearing an oversized knit with with track pants and retro trainers.
Shop Cosy Knitwear:
Perfect for pairing with high-waisted trousers and skirts.
I'll take one of these in every colour.
This colour will pair perfectly with so many pieces.
You can't beat Marks and Spencer quality at a bargain price.
5. Long Skirts
Style Notes: Sorry, miniskirts; we've made up our minds and there's much more longevity in the midi and maxi than the micro hem. Which other skirt dresses up and down as easily as a longer, elegant slip or A-line? All you need is a change of shoes for two entirely different outfits in one, and that makes the long skirt well worth its cost per wear.
Shop Long Skirts:
Throw on a blazer and you're good to go for evening.
The flared shape gives this such an elevated vibe.
Wear with the matching jumper or a simple long-sleeve tee.
Ideal for the office and the weekend.
6. Minimalist Tote
Style Notes: If there's one bag that is guaranteed to do it all, it's a roomy tote, and we keep spotting minimalist styles on the arms of Instagram's best dressed. Logomania had its moment and bold, statement bags are great for bringing a look to life, but if you're looking for an investment bag to spend a little more on for a lot more wear, an understated tote will only go up in value (and I can get behind any bag that fits a laptop inside).
Shop Tote Bags:
So luxe-looking.
Love the elongated shape of this one.
Suede makes everything look so luxurious.
Our editors are convinced that Bottega makes some of the best bags around.
7. Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Back for another year (as if they ever left), the tailored, wide-leg trouser continues to be team Who What Wear UK's favourite silhouette to flatter every shape and size. Celebs and influencers are still wearing "puddle pants" (a trouser long enough to gather around the ankle) but if that feels like too much fabric, a kick-flare cut or cropped iteration will give the same effect without overwhelming your frame.
Shop Wide-Leg Trousers:
White tailored trousers always look so fresh!
Taking notes on this whole look for the office.
Such a versatile style.
Proof that burgundy is the ultimate "rich girl" hue.
8. Midi Dresses
Style Notes: Just like the midaxi skirt, there's only one dress trend worth committing to this season. The versatile midi dress came into its own with knee-high boots for autumn, but its equally as chic with flat sandals for summer weekends. Pure, polished perfection.
Shop Midi Dresses:
Wear with loafers now and boots when the cold weather really hits.
Just add heels for brunch with the girls.
Simple, but oh so effective.
A year-round piece.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.