What I'm Buying to Dress Better This Autumn

Listen, I’m not saying I’m a bad dresser or anything—at least I hope not—but you know when you just feel like you need to step up your game? I guess that's me right now, and after a few months of being in a wardrobe rut, I’ve decided autumn is going to be the season where I take things to the next level with my style. No, I’m not talking about becoming a completely different person, rather just a more polished and put together version of myself.

Thus, my hope with the below items is that by adding them to my wardrobe, I’ll be basically ensuring that I couldn’t not look amazing if I tried. Whether combined or on their own, these pieces upgrade and elevate your look with minimal effort and maximal impact (and that’s my kind of purchase). So, see, read about and of course shop all six, just keep scrolling.

1. Menswear-Inspired Blazers

Think slightly oversized blazers dark and neutral colours. While they add polish to an outfit and tie things together, they also add a borrowed-from-the-boys cool factor. I plan to wear a blazer all season until I'm forced by the weather to switch to a coat.

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2. Structured Bags

As far as I'm concerned, any shape goes (though I'm partial to top handles and circular bags right now) as long as it's structured. I've always found that no matter what someone is wearing, a sleek bag can make the whole outfit seem put-together. 

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3. Leather Separates 

Something about leather and faux leather just makes any item—whether it's a top, skirt, pair of pants or jacket—look and feel luxe. And it does the same for your entire outfit too. Since leather is a trend that's not going anywhere, it's definitely worth investing in an item or two to wear all season long.

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4. Interesting Pants

Currently, I live in my favourite basic black jeans, and while I won't be ditching them anytime soon, I'd definitely like to make space for some more interesting pant options in my wardrobe. Whether it's a cool cargo style, printed trouser or even denim that feels like a slight departure from regular jeans, a special pant can make a regular outfit suddenly very cool. 

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5. Snake-Print Shoes

Another trend that's here to stay? Snake print-everything. Right now, my favourite way to get the look is through shoes, so this season, I'm putting aside all my basic black heels and boots for more interesting pairs below.

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6. Matching Sets

Last but not least, the lazy girl in me has to come out and say that matching sets are wardrobe game-changers. There's probably no easier way to look instantly elevated with as little effort as simply wearing a top and bottom that match—and I'm all about it right now. 

Next up, the biggest autumn/winter 2019 trends you need to know. 

This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S.