No matter how long ago you left school, September brings with it that feeling of starting afresh. It's a good time to edit and fill in wardrobe gaps—perhaps a leather blazer or an Instagram-worthy handbag? Though we're not ready for a complete seasonal switch just yet (we're officially in that weird end-of-summer period), you can still wear your summer investments whilst introducing new autumn pieces too. I've scoured the latest outfits of some of our favourite dressers to bring you a little inspiration for what to wear this month. Scroll for September 'fits…
1. SUEDE JACKET + TANK TOP + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS
Style Notes: Suede is stealing the show left, right and centre this autumn, and here's a case of styling an easy jacket with summer's white wide-leg trousers, and raffia accessories. It's an age-old formula, but if it ain't broke, why fix it? You may just want to swap out sandals for something with a little more coverage (it's grey outside as I type this).
SHOP THE LOOK:
Smart, sleek and stylish.
Yes! You can get away with your summer trousers in autumn with the right layers up top.
An investment bag you'll use for years.
2. DRESSY TOP + CARGO PANTS + TOTE BAG
Style Notes: In case you hadn't noticed, cargo trousers were a winner in 2023, but to make them more autumn-appropriate for 2024, add a trench coat to neutral layers like Monikh's khaki hues above. These baggy trousers look great with sleeveless tops and sandals now, but they'll also work well with a fluffy knit once the temperature drops.
SHOP THE LOOK:
This will work way into party season too.
The chic way to do cargos.
A Who What Wear favourite.
3. SUMMER DRESS + BLAZER + KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
Style Notes: Printed dresses are a winner no matter the time of year, and as Karina shows above, even your floral sundress can be repurposed for cooler weather with some clever styling. Simply add a boxy blazer and knee-high boots then throw in a contrasting accessory to break it up.
SHOP THE LOOK:
This blazer is a cult classic for a reason.
You can wear Rixo's floral dresses all year round.
These are currently top of my autumn wish list.
4. LEATHER JACKET + WHITE TEE + JEANS + BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: We envy a lot of Lucy Williams' effortless outfits, but even she gets thrown by the unpredictable weather. She captioned this shot, "Don’t tell anyone but I actually love it when London summer weather means my favourite leather jacket every single day. Even when it might actually be a little too warm." And she's exactly right—this easy formula looks just as good without the jacket if it gets too hot, but right now, I'm off to replicate this look ASAP.
SHOP THE LOOK:
A strong alternative to the classic black biker.
M&S really does make some of the best jeans on the high street.
Take a pair of simple ballet flats, turn up the style factor, and voila.
5. WAISTCOAT + MAXI SKIRT
Style Notes: Can you still wear ankle-grazing maxi skirts come September? Of course you can. The art lies in juxtaposing them with sharp tailoring and perhaps, a sensible, chunky sole. See Emma Rose Thatcher's above outfit for all the styling inspo you could need.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Cooler than your average waistcoat.
A fresh take on an old classic.
I've lost count of how many times I've spotted this bag on some of Instagram's best dressed.
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