I'm a Modest Dresser—Here Are the Standout Pieces I've Seen This Month
The Modest Dresser is a monthly series in which Who What Wear UK junior branded content editor and modest dresser Humaa Hussain shares the pieces that have caught her eye, along with styling tips to help you create looks that prove that modest doesn't have to equal boring.
As someone who lives for dressing in layers, I have to admit: autumn is my favourite season for fashion. There's something about the crisp air and cosy vibes that makes getting dressed each day feel extra exciting. This season, it's all about layering up without sacrificing style—think longline coats, chunky knits, and flowy silhouettes that offer both comfort and sophistication.
Modest fashion has never looked so good, especially when the temperatures drop and you can play with all those rich textures, like wool, cashmere, and leather. I love mixing and matching pieces to create looks that are not only modest but effortlessly chic, whether I’m throwing on a maxi dress with boots or tucking a cosy turtleneck into high-waisted trousers.
To help you refresh your autumn wardrobe, I've rounded up 15 of my favourite modest fashion picks, trust me, these pieces are perfect for layering and will make you fall in love with dressing for autumn too.
Shop My Favourite Modest Pieces This Month:
This cotton shirt dress is the perfect autumn layering piece. Throw it over a pair of tights or wide-leg trousers and add a longline coat for an effortlessly chic look that'll keep you warm as the weather cools down.
These leather trousers perfect for autumn thanks to their relaxed, high-waisted fit. Style them with an oversized knit and loafers for a polished yet cosy vibe.
Knits are an autumn essential, and this ribbed midi skirt from Khaite is ideal for the season. It's sleek, versatile, and can be easily paired with chunky sweaters or slim-fit tops for a balanced silhouette.
But I think I'll be wearing it with the matching cardigan for a full autumnal co-ord look.
Now I already own the Toteme scarf coat but I think I've just found the high street dupe for it in this Arket piece.
Speaking of high quality dupes, this is a dread ringer for The Row's Ophelia sweater. Though still on the pricer side it is a fraction of the price but still has that intricate detailing that COS is renowned for.
A gorgeous cashmere coat is an absolute must for autumn, and this belted option from Max Mara is perfect for layering over dresses or trousers. The belted waist adds a touch of structure to the laid-back, oversized fit.
I'm a huge fan of boyfriend jeans for autumn, and this pair from The Row is a dream. The relaxed, straight fit and rich fabric feel polished, but they're still comfortable enough to wear all day long.
Autumn is all about blazers, The Frankie Shop is a must for this. It's sharp enough for work, but relaxed enough to throw on with jeans and a tee for a casual weekend look.
Knit basics are key for autumn layering, and this long-sleeve cashmere-blend sweater is a wardrobe essential. Won't it look so chic worn with a silk maxi skirt?
& Other Stories always knows how to make the best cardigans and this one is no different. I love how the single button adds a touch of structure to the otherwise laid-back, oversized fit.
There's nothing like slipping into a pair of wide-leg wool trousers when the weather starts to cool. These from COS are as comfortable as they are stylish, perfect for pairing with blouses or cosy turtlenecks.
This polo shirt is giving me my prep school sports days vibes and I am very happy to relive those memories in this form.
Just add an oversized blazer and some black pumps and you're ready for a chic dinner date.
Shop My Favourite Modest Pieces From Last Month:
The satin skirt is a modest dresser's best friend. This Mango number adds a sophisticated touch with its neutral beige hue and fluid movement. Pair it with a chunky knit or a structured blazer for a polished look.
A versatile cashmere maxi dress that can be styled up or down, this piece has just the right amount of structure. The long sleeves and high neckline keep it modest, whilst the figure-skimming fit makes it perfect for a more refined silhouette.
The Row’s Ophelia sweater is an investment piece worth every penny. It's made from a soft and luxurious wool-cashmere blend and has a minimalist silhouette that can be styled in so many ways. My favourite is to pair it with oversized black trousers for a head-to-toe slouchy yet chic fit.
A well-cut blazer is a wardrobe cornerstone, and this olive-green option from COS hits all the right notes for autumn. The slightly oversized fit and classic design make it perfect for layering over sweaters, dresses and button-downs for a polished finish.
Speaking of olive green, switching your hijab (headscarf) to more autumnal tones is a must! This breathable bamboo one went straight into my basket for my sister.
Toteme does timeless pieces exceptionally well, and this wool-blend turtleneck is no exception. The slouchy fit and snuggly fabric make it a standout piece for layering under coats or over dresses for added warmth.
Wide-leg jeans have overtaken skinny and straight-leg cuts for me, and this pair from Citizens of Humanity is the ultimate in understated elegance. The high waist and generous cut offer a flattering fit, and I'll be pairing them with everything from cosy knits to polished blouses.
These jersey high-neck bodysuits are perfect for modest dressers who want to wear a long-sleeved top but with added coverage.
Uniqlo is my secret go-to for quality, affordable cashmere. You'll get so much wear out of this.
Wide-leg trousers allow you to keep things modest without compromising on a fashionable silhouette. Just add a belt to create a more tailored silhouette.
Cardigans are making a comeback, and it doesn't get any better—or chicer—than this beige, belted one. It would look so cute paired with baggy jeans and a turtleneck.
Humaa is the Junior Branded Content Editor at Who What Wear UK, where her expertise lies in paid for and affiliate stories for beauty and fashion brands. Humaa has a BA Hons degree in English literature and previously held editor roles at British Vogue and Marie Claire US. Most recently she moved over from the Who What Wear US Branded Content team to join the UK title to help build out the team on home ground. She is a September baby and though does not believe in astrology, cannot deny that she is a Virgo through and through. When she's not trying to poke a hole through her credit card on a daily basis, because of her job writing many, many shopping stories, you can find her making her way through her Kindle Unlimited TBR list–spoiler: it's a long one. Follow her on Instagram at @Humaa.Hussain