Sorry to all the summer fans, but autumn is by far my favourite season. In the warm months, I find myself struggling to know how to put together an outfit that manages to look good, stay true to my personal taste and not instantly make me a sweaty mess. Come autumn, things are blissfully easy. This is largely due to the fact that you can create a season’s worth of looks with just a few key pieces. It’s the most satisfying game of mix-and-match, where the reward is looking impressively put together with minimal effort.
Autumn style tends to be rooted in the classics, making it the perfect time to see where the gaps in your transitional season wardrobe may be. A trench coat and crisp white shirt will always look incredibly chic and on trend. But since this summer has largely been, to put it kindly, mild, I feel as if I’ve already been getting a lot of wear out of my transitional staples. So to keep things feeling fresh, I’ll be swapping some of my typical go-tos for pieces that are trending this season, but I know will keep coming back in fashion. With these styles acting as your wardrobe foundations, you’ll have this autumn’s outfits sorted, and some new treasured staples to turn to year after year.
1. A Denim Shirt
Style Notes: There's a shift towards double denim again, so a perfect jean shirt is 100 per cent essential for getting the look right. Choose a fit and wash that suits you—there are no rules!
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With its dipped cut, this is the best option for those who like to leave their shirt untucked.
With Nothing Underneath leads the way for shirting.
Dark denim is having a moment.
2. Smart Skirt
Style Notes: 2024 has been the year of the great skirt comeback and it looks like trend is going to continue well into autumn. For that polished look it's all about a longer hemline and a simple silhouette in a quiet-luxury kind of colour, such as the grey woollen style pictured here.
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This skirt is so serious… in the most perfect way.
Tick off multiple trends at once with this indigo denim pleated skirt.
This looks so premium.
3. Turn-Up Jeans
Style Notes: It's official—turn-up jeans are having a moment. This simple design tweak allows for a total refresh of your look, and is a trend that always comes back around.
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The OG pair it all started with.
Hip-hugging balanced out with a wide-cuff hem—heaven.
This faded black wash is so chic.
4. Suede Tote Bag
Style Notes: Just like the prominence of skirts, 2024 has been kind to the world of big tote bags. Go for structure, like with The Row's iconic Margaux, or opt in for something a little slouchier and more relaxed. Whatever direction you go in, make it an XXL.
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The bag of the moment.
You'll fit everything in but the kitchen sink.
This is a hot new style I keep spotting on influencers.
5. Country Jacket
Style Notes: Blazers, bikers and bombers are all still completely valid and current jacket options for autumn, but there's a new kid in town: the canvas jacket. Inspired by utilitarian styles, this casual outerwear style looks good with everything from denim to pretty slip dresses.
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So chic.
Look to Zara for a khaki offering in a waxy fabrication. Practical and stylish in equal measure.
& Other Stories have added duffle buckles for a little extra detailing to a basic style.
6. Knitted Dress
Style Notes: Blissfully comfortable and versatile, once you find your perfect dress you'll be turning to it all autumn long.
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This is a workwear-friendly option that is still comfortable and easy to throw on.
From the sage green to the button waistline, this dress is so much more than a plain knitted style.
A classic style.
7. The Cardigan
Style Notes: A cardigan is a layering essential. Pull over your dress or tank to guard against the chill, or button it up and wear as a top.
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The prettiest colour.
I'm in awe of this cardigan.
The perfect red to throw around your shoulders as an accent.
8. Classic Trench
Style Notes: There's a reason why trench coats have been a staple of British style for over a century. Lightweight, waterproof and effortlessly chic, they're the perfect outerwear for tackling autumn's sudden downpours.
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It's reversible and full of character—you get two fabulous coats for the price of one!
When in doubt: Reformation.
This style is so directional.
9. Big Earrings
Style Notes: If there's one thing that can easily finish a look off, it's a pair of earrings. Larger styles that are close to the ear (rather than a drop), like an oversized pair of clip-ons, feel particularly current.
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These have a really vintage feel.
A pair like these deserve and up 'do.
The YSSO is one of the coolest new jewellery brands around.
10. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: While I love my trainers, this autumn I'm determined to get out of my footwear rut and put some elevated ballet flats in my rotation.
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The colour, Mary Jane strap and almond toe make these extra special.
How adorable are these?
You'll wear this style forever.
11. Tall Boots
Style Notes: This autumn, swap the ankle boots for taller alternatives—they work with every hem length and elevate any look.
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This sleek black pair will never go out of style.
The animal print sets this boots apart.
The influence of Western style is going nowhere for autumn.
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