I'm a Fashion Editor—These Are My Hero Bags and Shoes for Autumn

Sponsor Content Created With Dune London

dune-autumn-winter-2023-collection-309879-1697014312855-super

There's something thrilling about the start of a new season. It's an opportunity to hone in on the key styles to suit the changing weather and fill in any missing gaps in our wardrobes. For me, the new season offers a chance to reassess what I deem the most important part of my wardrobe; the finer details. By this I mean accessories—shoes and bags to be precise—that are the finishing touches that pull an outfit together. These details add a sense of elevation; a put-together feel that makes a look complete. As ever, I tend to look for styles that I can invest a little more in, ensuring high quality fabrics, clever design details and timeless silhouettes, and one brand in particular has ticked all these boxes: Dune London

For a few seasons now, there’s been a consensus throughout fashion: it’s all about the classics. Whether it's a forever bag, the ultimate black boots or a pair of failsafe, elegant evening heels, designers and editors alike are enamoured by the tried-and-trusted styles that have proven their worth over the years. As such, Dune London’s latest collection pays homage to the much-loved styles that we come back to each season. 

dune-autumn-winter-2023-collection-309879-1697618988824-main

For autumn, Dune London has selected its most-iconic styles and reimagined them for the new season. Given the brand's expertise, the designs have evolved to further demonstrate the craft and consideration of each piece. As a collector of handbags, it takes a little more to impress me than most, but I just know that Dune London's recently launched Regent bag is set to be a modern icon. The Regent has joined Dune London's Premium Collection, which focuses on exquisite craftspersonship and expert design prowess.

Since launching just last month, the style has already become a cult favourite, and has sold out and been restocked various times. A true wardrobe essential, this coveted handbag can be worn on the shoulder or as a crossbody style, is crafted from high-quality fabrics and is available in elevated colourways, ensuring whichever iteration you choose, it will become a treasured style in your collection.

An expert shoemaker, Dune London has channelled its decades of specialist knowledge to highlight three key styles for the new season: courts, loafers and boots. Each has earned its place in the shoe hall of fame as a timeless style that can effortlessly elevate any outfit. The selection demonstrates Dune London's expertise in all things footwear, with insight into the popular styles that retain their fashion relevance despite changing trends. From day to night, these forever styles are the ultimate finishing touch to ensure a chic edge to any look. 

Keep scrolling to explore Dune London's hero bags and shoes for autumn. 

THE BAG FOR EVERY OCCASION

dune-autumn-winter-2023-collection-309879-1697014235259-main

The Regent is a handbag for all occasions. Designed in a classic silhouette, the refined style will be the perfect arm candy for all occasions, from coffee dates to evenings out. Attention to detail is a defining feature for Dune London, and the Regent is a case in point; it features a bespoke turn-lock closure with interlocking "DD" hardware—one of the brand's icons. Offered up in quilted leather, bouclé, sequin and leather-mix iterations, each style brings its own timeless essence to the classic silhouette. There are 9 variations to choose from in total, from sleek neutrals to more playful colourways.

DAY TO NIGHT HEELS

dune-autumn-winter-2023-collection-309879-1698050775813-main

When looking for an instant outfit-elevator, court shoes are my first port of call. This year, we've seen a clear infatuation with slingback styles, and Dune London's Detailed style features a striking snaffle trim that adds to the elegant feel of the shoe. Of course, the classic court is one to rely on too, with the Alexandria demonstrating Dune London's focus on details, with a sharp stiletto heel and bold pointed toe. It's a style that works with everything from dresses to jeans, though I'm inclined to pair them with long, wide-leg trousers, allowing the pointed toe to peek out. And last but not least, everyone needs a pair of sparkling shoes to add some glitz when the need arises. And with party season on the horizon, now is as good a time as any to add a little sparkle to your footwear collection. 

MOST-WANTED BOOTS

dune-autumn-winter-2023-collection-309879-1697014253911-main

Autumn is synonymous with boots, and Dune London's selection is so strong right now. A classic pair of boots is something I recommend all wardrobes feature, as they can be integrated into so many looks, from work to evening and even coffee dates. And for those who love flats, Dune London has you covered. In particular, the Tia knee-high boots feature an elegant buckle detail, adding to the expensive look of the style. Texture is a fashion focal point for autumn, with knits and leather making a return to our wardrobes, so naturally, the Slouch boots are a standout in soft suede. Style up with an on-trend denim maxi or pair with a soft, cotton dress under a camel coat to add contrast and celebrate the suede. 

EVERYDAY LOAFERS

dune-autumn-winter-2023-collection-309879-1697014259693-main

My wardrobe has long relied on loafers. For the office, I'm styling up a flat pair with tailored trousers, adding a pair of socks to play into a preppy look and keep my ankles warm during the colder months. The block heel is the perfect way to take skirts and dresses from summer into autumn and winter, when you can switch in tights when styling your favourite mini or maxi. Better still, you'll find yourself wearing these all through spring and summer, too. They're a true year-round staple. 

Discover more of Dune London's A/W 23 shoes and bags here.

Explore More:
Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.