This may be controversial, but I’ve always found autumn my favourite season to dress for. I'm in no way against the ease of summer and how its throw-on dresses and slip-on sandals make getting dressed each morning a five-minute affair. But autumn, with its layering and mix-and-match options, opens up an array of styling possibilities and opportunities to really engage with our personal style.
Each year around this time I start my pre-season preparation, moving my wardrobe around as I store away sarongs and linen button-downs and unpack the cardigans and tailoring that I last saw in late spring. This seasonal act is not only necessary to get my wardrobe in order but also lets me take stock of the pieces I own and identify any gaps yet to be filled. As I was recently dragging down boxes from my highest shelves for the coming seasonal switch-up, it felt like the perfect time to share the luxury buys I come back to every single year.
Looking to autumn, it's the most hardworking pieces in our wardrobes that become key seasonal buys. Leather boots will be faced with days of drizzle and long walks through soggy, leaf-clad lanes. Jackets and coats will be the outermost layer of all our outfits, demanding a sophisticated feel and quality composition as we reach for them day after day. Even our tote bags need to contend with being laden with a combination of umbrellas, sunglasses and even a light scarf at any one time, as the unpredictable British weather shows its full range.
With this in mind, certain autumnal pieces are truly worth a little investment for their high-quality construction and longevity of design. Adding just one or two of these items into your autumn outfits can immediately bring a luxurious feel that elevates the rest of your look, whether it's composed of other designer styles or excellent high-street finds.
As a fashion editor, I'm often asked which designer pieces are worth saving up for, and the new season is a great time to invest in luxury styles that will go the distance, not only throughout autumn but all year round and for many to follow. With over eight years in the fashion industry, I'm well acquainted with the pieces that are truly worth it, and I've pulled them all together in a concise edit for your reading (and shopping) pleasure.
Some of these are historically iconic pieces, having proved themselves as wardrobe heavyweights over many years, whilst others are fresh designer creations set to steal the hearts of fashion people and earn their titles as forever buys. We're talking about the ultimate trench coat by Burberry, loved for decades for its practicality and charm in equal measure. Or Khaite's sumptuous cardigan that offers a modern cinched silhouette with all the cosiness. Great denim will always be high on my list of worthwhile luxury buys, alongside exquisite tailoring that translates to our easy day looks as well as more put-together evening ensembles.
There's plenty more to explore, so scroll on to see the 19 luxury autumn items I swear by.
Shop The Best Luxury Autumn Buys
There's a reason why Burberry's trench coats continue to be an iconic wardrobe hero. With dresses, tailoring, denim and more, this coat will layer over all outfits.
The Margaux's sister, The Marlo is the perfect option for those who missed out on the best-selling style.
It's always good to keep a light layer to hand in case the sun goes in, especially in this timeless mole shade.
A great pair of jeans will serve your wardrobe all year round, and if you're yet to add a classic straight-leg pair to your arsenal, I have to recommend Agolde's Pinch Waist style.
Isabel Marant is set to be the brand of the season, and slouchy boots are having a major comeback.
A cosy oversized turtleneck in soft alpaca-blend bouclé with a relaxed fit. Perfect for chic layering.
Loafers are an enduring staple, and you can't do better than Prada's iconic design.
The ultimate everyday bag: supple leather, iconic weave, and a sleek, structured shape.
Manolo Blahnik's elegant Maysale mules are ready to add instant elevation to any outfit, from dresses to jeans.
Elevate your look with this rich green suede blazer—classic tailoring with a luxe edge.
The poncho is officially back, and Róhe's style is my favourite.
A favourite of the Who What Wear reader, make the Saint Laurent Le Loafer your go-to shoe this season.
Wrap yourself in cosy chocolate tones with this luxe scarf—simple, stylish, and so versatile.
Luxuriously soft with a roomy fit, The Row's Ophelia is the ultimate cosy-chic staple.
The Flamenco clutch is an instant classic—and this deep olive hue? Colour me obsessed.
Layer over chunky cashmere jumpers and wool coats.
A minimalist suede tote that’s as sleek as it is practical—perfect for day-to-night dressing.
The perfect tailored trouser that will slot perfectly into your autumn wardrobe.
Layered denim with a modern twist—casual cool with a fashion-forward edge.
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