You know the drill by now: Flimsy sundresses, feather-light blouses and anything overly strappy or revealing needs to be packed away (vacuum-sealed bags are my weapon of choice) in order to make space for autumn’s essentials. Knitwear is back on the menu, boots are getting their moment in the (low-hanging) sun, and it’s now entirely necessary to wear a jacket to and from work.
Lizzie Hadfield often finds her seasonal basics on the high street.
You’ll undoubtedly have many a useful piece from those three categories already tucked away at home, and it’s time to pull them out and get re-wearing. Many of last year’s big autumn trends still stand up today (that classic cream cable-knit, the checked blazer and Chelsea boots you invested in are all worth digging out). I’m personally looking forward to wearing a particular black cropped knit from & Other Stories, my Dr. Martens ankle boots and a vintage Aquascutum jacket I purchased last September.
Jessica Skye wearing the & Other Stories blazer everyone’s obsessed with.
Should a particular section of your new-season closet be lacking and you want to find the kind of winning items that won’t date or be one-hit-wonders, I hope the shopping list below proves to be useful. I’ve combed through some of our most trusted high-street stores, selecting only the best knits, jackets and boots that have a timelessness to them. No crazy trends or fads, just the best of the best that can be considered worthy of your money and expert outfitting. Keep scrolling to see these winning autumn items from Topshop, COS and H&M.
TOPSHOP
BOOTS
All the look of a vintage pair without the potential damage or repairs.
Enjoying the little curved heels on these.
These have the potential to pep up all casual outfits.
JUMPERS
Get me in this ASAP, please.
Yes to a leg out when you’re still in knitwear.
The handiest little top I ever did see.
JACKETS
So sharp. Definitely would appreciate the matching trousers.
Now this is very luxe for the high street.
A checked blazer will go with so many things, so it’s well worth owning one.
COS
BOOTS
A nod to the ’80s but with a slick, modern makeover.
We’re feeling tempted to go for a walk.
Cool with trousers and dresses.
JUMPERS
The most autumnal shade ever? Quite possibly.
Scrumpers (aka scarf-jumpers) are our weak spot.
A great addition to your most trusted jeans.
JACKETS
The kind of piece that gets better with age.
Never too soon to pick up a perfect winter puffer.
Make like a COS girl and wear with matching bottoms.
H&M
BOOTS
Wear with skinny jeans for that Kate Moss effect.
A very grown-up take on cowboy boots.
So good with a dark floral dress.
JUMPERS
I love a balletic cardigan.
This is a great knit for a smart day at work.
Combine with gold chunky hoops.
JACKETS
This has a very Parisienne feel to it and would look chic with jeans and a Breton.
For the vegan-leather lovers out there.
Trust me, this looks so good on.
Next up, our edit of the best jumper trends.
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