If there's one thing I’ve learned from French women—aka the eternal arbiters of style—it's that fashion is best when it’s uncomplicated. The elusive "just threw it on” energy they radiate will never date, but it’s surprisingly easy to master.
There are few things more satisfying than putting little time and effort into an outfit only for it to fill you with confidence as you go about your day. For me, there’s a roster of fail-safe items I know will always have this effect. Blue jeans? Can’t go wrong. Floral midi dress? Just call me Jeanne Damas. Nevertheless, I often find myself looking my attire up and down in the mirror and thinking, "Wow, I should really change things up a bit.”
My most recent moment of clarity led me to Instagram, where I found no end to the inspiring looks that I knew would fit my criteria: timeless, polished and easy to achieve with minimum effort. The desire for simplicity is universally shared. Who among us doesn’t want to cut down on the number of decisions they make in a day?
So whether you’re spending the crisp autumn days going for wholesome walks, attending al fresco brunch (with layers) or already planning ahead to winter, keep scrolling to see the easy autumn outfits we've been wearing on repeat.
1. WIDE-LEG TROUSERS + CARDIGAN + TRAINERS
Style Notes: For those days when you need an easy yet chic outfit, you can't go wrong with all-black. Pair a cardigan with wide-leg trousers and trainers for an effortlessly cool look.
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COS's knitwear collection is so impressive right now.
So simple yet so effective. Wear these with shirts, knitwear and party tops.
Sustainable and stylish—it's no wonder fashion people love Vejas.
2. STRIPES + WHITE DENIM + MARY JANES
Style Notes: Stripes always look chic, and white denim needn't be put away now that it's winter. Add Mary Jane–style pumps for a further Parisian twist.
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For top-tier knits, Zara is always my go-to destination.
White jeans are a staple in my wardrobe. Wear with blazers, knitwear, blouses and more.
Zara is hopping on the Mary Jane trend!
3. BLAZER + JEANS + HEELED BOOTS
Style Notes: Emma Rose Thatcher always gets it right. Here, she's wearing a chic belted blazer with light-wash denim and heeled ankle boots. I can't wait to copy this ASAP!
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Looking to invest in a new blazer this season? Look no further than this & Other Stories style.
Named the Favourites for a good reason, these & Other Stories jeans continue to impress editors, influencers and celebs alike.
I've been hunting for the perfect everyday heeled boots, and of course Mango has a great pair.
4. BLAZER + TURTLENECK + KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
Style Notes: The proportions of this look are seriously dreamy—kudos to you, Aïda. Plus, adding brown details to an all-black look gives it a special something.
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Reformation's new cashmere collection is one not to miss.
Yes, it's that Frankie Shop blazer that's been loved for so many years now. And it's back in stock.
Just imagine these knee-high boots styled with a voluminous smock dress.
5. KNITTED DRESS + TRAINERS
Style Notes: Regular readers will know how much we love a knitted dress here at Who What Wear. While we're known to wear ours with knee-high boots, Anouk Yve makes the case for pairing them with trainers, too.
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I just love this luxe knitted dress.
Gold earrings instantly elevate any outfit.
These trainers are having a real moment right now.
6. TRENCH COAT + MINISKIRT + FLATS
Style Notes: In classic Gallic fashion, Anne-Laure Mais makes a miniskirt suddenly feel less daunting by teaming with a longline trench.
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This one is actually practical thanks to being rain- and even storm-proof.
Leather is the perfect way to take a mini through to autumn.
Check the weather forecast before you choose to dig out your ballet flats.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Up Next: Autumn/Winter 2022 Fashion Trends: The 15 Looks You Need to Know About
