The Most Important Autumn Purchases, According to Editors
September is the month for making new-season shopping lists, but with so many new drops landing every single day, working out what to actually put some cash down on and buy can become a little overwhelming. So to help you get ahead on the key purchases for autumn and assemble a considered, wonderful edit, we have taken a look inside a number of fashion editors' online shopping baskets to discover what they are buying—and therefore advising you purchase too—this season.
When it comes to trends, these well-dressed ladies are buying into zebra print (did you see that coming?), ruffles, velvet blazers and statement checks. InStyle's Robin Kotze makes a strong case for investing in a silky robe coat, while Who What Wear UK's very own Hannah Almassi might just have found the most flattering sweater ever made (and, hallelujah, it's affordable).
As well as highlighting a number of showstopping pieces, these industry insiders also advise stocking up on some perennial classics. In the mix they have served up the perfect patent ankle boot and white shirt with an added twist—what's not to love?
Keep reading to see how you can shop like a fashion editor this autumn…
Shop Robyn's picks:
"I've always loved robe coats—I've worn my silk pyjama robe with jeans for years. This Racil version is a modern wardrobe must-have, yet it adds that 'fashion' element without being too obvious. It would look great with a roll-neck and tailored trousers."
"I'm not normally a fan of plaid, but it's the shape of this that changes my mind. Perfect in the daytime with boyfriend jeans and pointed flats, or at night with a mid-length skirt and my hair tied back."
"I'm always on the hunt for the perfect classic boot, but they need to have that bit of 'something something.' I love the point on these, but they still have that easy, relaxed vibe and will look perfect with cropped jeans."
Shop Katherine's picks:
"While I totally appreciate the power and appeal of post-Soviet style, the Vetements hoodie was never going to make its way into my wardrobe. Instead my way into the look is through Warsaw-based designer Magda Butrym’s beautiful collections. Complete with deconstructed patterns and incredible original prints, her pieces speak to the Cold War heritage, but are resolutely feminine. I wore this dress for the shows in New York, and I also love the polka-dotted style (Rennes dress) that Pandora Sykes wore the day after. I’d love the whole collection!"
"I definitely think the off-the-shoulder look is running out of steam, but I just can’t shake this Isa Arfen knotted blouse from my new-season wish list. It won’t do well in the depths of winter, but I think it would be great for those endless in-between days we have in autumn and spring. I'm going to be in L.A. and Palm Springs for New Year, and if this isn’t in my suitcase I’ll lament it at length. I’m a massive fan of Serafina's collections—her presentation was one of my favourites this fashion week."
"This is an off-duty purchase, but as I spend a fair amount of time by the seaside with my boyfriend’s family and love a winter country walk, a stylish shearling jacket is a new-season must. Plus it’s a steal."
Shop Frankie's picks:
"I love the velvet trend and think the easiest way to wear it is with a blazer. This one from Boden comes in either navy or burgundy and would look great with a T-shirt and wide-legged jeans."
"I have a pair of leopard-print ankle boots that I have worn until they have holes in the soles so I am due an update. Zebra is this season's animal print of choice, and these Whistles ones have a walkable heel."
"Victoriana ruffles are not the easiest trend to pull off, but I reckon just a suggestion around the neckline and shoulders is doable. I always love bright red for autumn too."
Shop Hannah's picks:
"I've decided red is my happy colour. I love wearing it, and the majority of my wardrobe is blocked out in scarlets and rubies. Lucky for me it's an important part of the A/W 16 colour wheel. I snapped up this flattering, balletic sweater as soon as it landed onto FineryLondon.com."
"I ummed and ahhd over this amazing coat last winter, before the Scandi brand really reached the UK, and now I'm still obsessed. I should've snaffled it then, but there's still time! An everyday coat with a difference? A black piece of outerwear that isn't boring? Count me in."
"Black shoes are a personal weakness, but that's okay when they come in so many iterations. I can validate all purchases with plenty of reasons. For example: I don't have a pair with a 'Louis' heel and studs…"
Love the idea of getting your autumn look sorted? Then see the key catwalk trends that are filtering into wardrobes right now.
Opening Image: Style Snooper Dan