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 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.
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.
Biker boots are back for another year, and the supple leather and simple design of this Jimmy Choo pair mean they'll go the distance.
A "nice top" that will take your jeans, skirts and tailoring into the evening.
From the refined leather to the elevated cream shade, this skirt is destined to become a new brand hero for Toteme.
The Margaux and its various iterations are the totes every fashion person wants, and this unique variation has a woven body and practical size for all your essentials and more.
Add a sophisticated edge to your T-shirt and jeans outfits, or wear this as a layering piece under your trusty trench.
Invest in exquisite tailoring and a luxurious blend of wool and silk.
Loafers are an enduring staple, and you can't do better than Prada's iconic design.
From the colour to the perfectly draped silhouette, this shirt dress has all my attention.
It's never too soon to invest in a premium coat for the cooler months, and this wool and cashmere-blend style is a real standout.
Pair with a simple tee and trainers, or look to the matching cardigan and ballet flats for an easy yet refined look.
Shop the matching New Cami Ribbed Cashmere Cardigan (£350).
I always keep a pair of go-with-anything sunnies in my bag for when the sunshine decides to make an appearance on colder days.
A signature piece for the brand that focuses on timeless design. You'll always want to wear this when it's cold.
No matter the season, a good-quality white button-down is always a smart investment.
The perfectly placed pleats and effortless drape of these trousers show off the design intuition of Max Mara.
A sleek silk dress in an autumnal shade will ready your wardrobe for all dressier occasions.
Manolo Blahnik's elegant Maysale mules are ready to add instant elevation to any outfit, from dresses to jeans.
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