There’s nothing wrong with relying on the same basics year after year. In fact, the pieces that get the most wear—jeans, T-shirts, sweaters, and trench coats—are usually the ones worth holding onto. But this fall, the fashion crowd is proving that making an outfit feel current has less to do with buying an entirely new wardrobe and more to do with rethinking how those familiar staples are styled.

The difference is often surprisingly subtle. Swapping classic blue denim for an unexpected wash, adding a scarf in a less predictable way, or choosing a shoe that feels slightly more directional can completely shift an otherwise simple look. These aren’t complicated styling tricks, either. They’re small changes that make the pieces already hanging in your closet feel noticeably fresher.

That’s especially appealing at the start of a new season, when getting dressed suddenly feels exciting again. Rather than abandoning the basics that work, consider this your excuse to experiment with them. Below are five easy styling updates that are making some of fall’s most reliable staples look infinitely cooler right now.

The Basic: Black Jeans

How to Style It: Give black jeans a softer, more elevated feel by pairing them with silk, whether that means a fluid button-down or a polished blouse. To take the combination one step further, add a silk scarf for another layer of texture. The contrast between relaxed denim and something glossy and refined makes even the simplest black-jeans outfit feel considered.

The Basic: Fitted Long-Sleeve Shirt

How to Style It: Instead of reaching for classic blue jeans, make the change with the denim hue itself. Tan, camel, and rich brown denim instantly give a fitted long-sleeve shirt a more interesting fall feel without requiring much additional styling. Finish with a sleek belt or understated shoes to keep the unexpected denim color at the center of the look.

The Basic: Jeans + T-Shirt

How to Style It: Few combinations are more dependable than jeans and a T-shirt, but adding a long statement coat completely changes the mood. Look for something with a dramatic length, strong silhouette, or standout texture to turn an otherwise straightforward denim outfit into an incredibly chic one. It’s the kind of addition that makes the easiest outfit in your closet look intentional.

The Basic: Sweater

How to Style It: Pair a simple sweater with relaxed black trousers, then wrap a triangle scarf around your waist for an unexpected finishing touch. Bonus points if the scarf matches the sweater, creating a tonal effect that feels especially polished. It’s a small styling detail, but it gives two familiar wardrobe staples an entirely new point of view.

The Basic: Trench Coat

How to Style It: Start with an updated trench featuring a softer collar, and layer it over a perfectly boxy white T-shirt and mid-rise jeans. Then comes the small switch that makes the outfit feel current: Rather than defaulting to ankle boots or pointed-toe heels, slip into a pair of chic open-toe mules. That unexpected bit of skin creates a lighter, less predictable finish that instantly modernizes the classic trench-and-denim combination.

Tiffany Reid is a Who What Wear editor in residence, fashion executive, freelance stylist, and brand consultant who most recently served as the senior vice president of fashion for Bustle Digital Group. She recently launched a YouTube series, Tried + True, in which she walks viewers through the latest trends.

Early this summer, we decided to retire our son's nursery and transition him to a big-boy room. For many reasons, the first major one was the urgency to foster his independence while sleeping (instead of co-sleeping with us), and the second was the need for him to play freely and safely in his room.

We had no idea time would go by this fast, and although all parents warned us, we could never know how time truly flies until we experienced it ourselves. As we watch him grow at an unbelievable rate, I've realized that a beautiful nursery doesn't necessarily work for a busy, curious little person who climbs, plays, owns (what feels like) a million things, and wants more independence. The number of toys he's acquired since birth was both admirable for him and embarrassing for us as parents. We needed a serious purge!

Creating a space that was stylish, functional, and safe was a priority for us, and my blind ambition made me think this process would be easy and fast. After a longer-than-expected, bumpy road, we finally made it out of the trenches months later, but we had to tap into our network of interior designers and experts to help along the way. Here's the journey from the beginning to our final destination.

Shortly after jumping into this project, I knew I needed to call in reinforcement for organization and a schedule. I phoned a friend and decided to tap interior designer Bridgette Grant to help us on this journey. Her suggestion was to start with the foundation, which, to her, meant the room's color and mood and understanding how furniture would work in the space.

"As children grow, their rooms often need to evolve beyond the nursery without feeling overly mature. Color can help bridge that transition," says Grant. She created this mood board for us and mocked up what the potential furniture would look like in the room. We emphasized how important it was that the furniture wasn't too overwhelming since it is a modest-sized room.

We also wanted him to have his independence to play safely and alone in the room. One thing that jump-started the urgent need for this makeover was a series of incidents catching him right before an accidental fall. Specifically, leaning on the recliner chair to give him height and leverage to climb up the bookshelf… Yup, you heard that right. I caught him hanging for dear life from the bookshelf. So she kept all this in mind and drafted this layout.

7 Tips On How to Upgrade a Nursery Into a Toddle Room

Grant's Designer Tip: Choose furnishings that create comfort and security, such as upholstered beds, canopy details, bed nooks, and soft, layered textiles. If space allows, a trundle bed adds flexibility for both children and parents.

Transitioning from a crib to a "big-boy bed" is a major milestone, and we weren't convinced we were ready. We knew for sure that we were done with co-sleeping and needed to set some sleeping boundaries ASAP. We knew the bed should support more than sleep. It becomes a place for reading, cuddling, sick days, sleepovers, and the occasional night when parents like us end up in the room. Not to mention, I tried sleeping on the crib mattress once and felt so sorry for my baby. Randi needed a mattress upgrade badly.

So we opted for a trundle bed from Oeuf and a mattress from Babyletto. "The trundle is a very simple idea: an extra bed when you need it and no footprint when you don't. It’s about making furniture work harder so it can adapt to the changing needs of a family without adding another piece of furniture," said Sophie Demenge, cofounder of Oeuf. It did not take much convincing for us to see why this was an absolute necessity for his room upgrade.

Grant's Designer Tip: Incorporate accessible bookshelves, child-height hooks, easy-to-reach storage baskets, and a night-light they can operate independently.

Randi has quickly shown us he was ready to be independent the week of his first birthday when he magically knew how to walk all on his own. As toddlers grow, their rooms should empower them to participate more fully in independent daily routines. We wanted to encourage this independence while keeping him safe. While it was impressive to watch him use a chair to grab his books, we still needed to course-correct, and because Randi has about 100 cars (no exaggeration), we needed somewhere to store them all with easy access for him. We chose a Piccalio Toy Organizer to do just that. The Toy Organizer offered us functional toy storage and adjustable cubbies, making it easy to store everything from blocks to balls, cars, and more.

I love the aesthetic of having books in plain sight, and this was something I wanted to keep. We decided to put in floating shelves high up to encourage him to ask us to reach them for him. We loaded the rest of the books into the Mustard Made Sage Locker with doors and a lock and key, giving him easy access while also setting boundaries when we didn't have eyes on him.

"At Maisonette, we're always looking for pieces that are not only beautiful but designed to actually keep up with kids. The Mustard Made storage is a great example. It's made durable and easy for kids to access, so they can start taking ownership of their space, while the lock gives parents a little extra control when they need it," said Sylvana Durrett, cofounder of Maisonette.

Grant's Designer Tip: Don't be afraid of brighter colors and playful patterns, even on large surfaces like walls or bedding.

Once we had the basics locked in, like the layout, it was time to jump into the fun stuff, like color. Danielle Hurhula, VP of home merchandising at Quince, held my hand as I chose colors. She suggested, "A soft, warm neutral is the most forgiving foundation you can give a kid's room. It makes the space feel cozy without dictating anything else in it." So we opted for the European Linen Sheets in Sand. "The neutral base lets you bring in almost any color or pattern as they grow. From there, layer in playful color through accents you can rotate seasonally," she said.

We wanted to stay away from blue, as that felt too cliché for a boy's room, so we ran with this terra-cotta, started with a quilt set in the colorway, then sprinkled it in other layers through the room, like in accent pillows and this velvet lamp from TOV Furniture I am obsessed with. I love both the lamp's soft texture and its soft, complementary tone.

Grant's Designer Tip: Consider closed storage or open shelves with matching baskets. Use pictures and labels to help growing toddlers identify where items belong and encourage independence.

The storage solutions that worked for diapers and swaddles rarely work for toys, books, puzzles, dress-up clothes, and everything else toddlers seem to accumulate overnight. This meant we needed maximum storage in a modest space. This wardrobe from Overstock was exactly what we needed. We took advantage of the height of the room and opted for something very tall. We took away the photos on the wall and decided storage was a better use of that space. We organized it so he could access the things at the bottom, and the higher-up items were only for us to reach. The knobs that came with the original unit were swapped out to match the soft, neutral aesthetics of the room.

Grant's Designer Tip: Create a dedicated sleeping area centered around the bed, a reading nook for quiet activities, and a separate play area for toys and creative exploration.

A reading nook was nonnegotiable for his room, as he loves to cuddle and read a book with his parents. It helps calm him when he's overstimulated and adds quiet time before winding down for bed. We are lucky that he can really sit and focus on a book; the goal when creating this space was to nurture that. We fell in love with this little elephant table from Pottery Barn, as it has a hidden compartment in the back to store his frequently read books. Randi really took to the area. We wanted to create distinct zones for sleeping, reading, and play to help the room work better throughout the day. Because of this, we decided to create a play area outside of his room, which brings us to our next tip.

Grant's Designer Tip: Focus on creating a room that feels calm, functional, adaptable, and welcoming rather than striving for perfection. The best toddler rooms aren't just beautiful—they anticipate toy explosions, changing interests, story time, sleepovers, sick days, and growing independence.

The truth is, Randi plays in the living room 60% of the time because Mom and Dad are there most of the time, so we decided to focus on revamping his new play area in the living room. We also felt strongly about setting up the room for the best independent sleep possible, which we thought would work better with less toy distraction. Remember when I said earlier we were embarrassed by the number of toys he's collected? Yeah, it was time to trade in his crazy, messy, oversize playpen and create a safe, aesthetically pleasing play space. The first decision was the carpet from Lulu and Georgia to keep him safe when sliding on the floor. We then decided to trade in his old swing set for a smaller one. Although he is growing quickly, we just didn't have space for such a big swing-and-slide set. This foldaway one from Piccalio was the perfect solution. Lastly, we wanted a table for him to play, do arts and crafts, and do learning activities and still have some storage. This nesting play table did the trick, with little cubbies built into the chairs.

Grant's Designer Tip: Consider area rugs, upholstered furniture, window treatments, cushions, and textiles.

This final tip is a gift to parents and also to neighbors if you live in close proximity to them! Many disruptions come from noise (especially for those who work from home), so layering soft materials throughout the room helps absorb sound while adding warmth and comfort. It is also a little safety trick for me. Randi likes to jump off of things, pretend like he can flip like a martial artist, and crash his cars into each other. A soft and aesthetically pleasing rug in both his room and his play area was a necessity for me to combat my anxiety every time he tumbles to the floor. This Pottery Barn play rug also acts as a built-in activity mat for him to play with his cars on, perfect for encouraging his imagination.

While this journey took two months longer than expected, the outcome was well worth the wait. Phew! Give yourself some grace as you figure out what works best for your little ones, and hopefully, these tips and brand ideas make the process a little easier. Be sure to check out their sites for even more cool kids' interiors. Take it from me: You only want to do this once. Here's hoping we're set for at least the next five to 10 years!

Whilst straight-leg jeans have certainly earned their place in your denim drawer, I implore you to look beyond them when styling boots this season. Taking my inspiration from Florence Pugh, I spotted the actor stepping out this week in an ankle-boots-and-jeans combination that felt far more elevated than any straight-leg jeans and boots combo I've thrown together for some time.

Spotted styling a pair of cuffed jeans with black ankle boots, Florence's denim cropped neatly at at the ankle, the turned-up cuff pulling attention to her boots and preventing them from pooling over her footwear or falling into a straight hem.

For petite dressers, in particular, this is a boots-and-jeans pairing I keep recommending. Whilst longer, wide-leg styles can sometimes overwhelm a smaller frame, a neatly cuffed hem brings balance to the outfit, all the while revealing the chic shoes that lie beneath.

If you're looking for a low-key way to update your denim wardrobe, read on to shop the cuffed jeans I recommend this season below.

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Whilst the current weather forecast calls for a cashmere knit and jacket at 9am and practically a bikini come 1pm, getting dressed feels particularly tricky right now. One thing, however, is certain: winter is only a matter of weeks away. And, naturally, H&M has already nailed the chic cold-weather trends set to dominate the season.

From sumptuous V-neck wool and cashmere knits to funnel-neck jackets and the return of sleek ’90s noir tailoring, H&M’s new-in section is currently a masterclass in expensive-looking winter dressing. Think sharp cropped blazers paired with fluid trousers, dark indigo denim that instantly makes an outfit feel more polished and elegant kitten-heel boots designed to peek out beneath long hemlines. It’s a decidedly grown-up approach to cold-weather dressing, with rich fabrics, sophisticated silhouettes and elevated basics doing most of the heavy lifting.

Keep scrolling to shop the chicest winter trends taking over H&M right now.

Shop The Best H&M Winter Trends

1. V-Neck Jumpers

2. Funnel-Neck Outerwear

3. Sleek 90's Tailoring

4. Dark Indigo Jeans

5. Kitten Heel Boots

If you're looking to get ahead on your winter wardrobe, can I make a suggestion? Inspired by one of the chicest over-50s on my feed, Tracee Ellis Ross, I'll be stepping away from my jeans drawer as we head towards November and working checked trousers into my winter rotation instead.

There's something inherently wintery about the rich checks of Tracee's trousers. Perhaps it's their association with traditional tartan, or the depth of colour that makes this timeless print feel particularly suited to the colder months. Either way, they have a richness that makes them look luxurious.

While Tracee kept things light with her oversized shirt and a chunky scarf, I think checked trousers would look just as chic paired with a chunky wool jumper as we move deeper into winter. Add a pair of black boots and have a comfortable, cosy outfit you'll reach for on repeat.

Elegant, elevated and a welcome alternative to everyday denim, checked trousers are firmly on my winter wish list. I've tracked down the best styles on the market right now, so read on for my edit.

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I forgive friends and family when they ask me to recommend "a good collagen eye cream". We're often told that collagen is the structure that keeps our skin looking plump and firm, and it is. But applying collagen topically in your skincare routine isn't actually the right port of call to replace or maintain collagen, especially if you're looking to address wrinkles , under-eye hollowing or any concern around the eye area.

Do Collagen Eye Creams Work?

"Collagen in skincare is a bit of a tricky subject, because collagen itself is a huge molecule and carries a large molecular weight; therefore, it won’t penetrate the upper layer of the skin (the stratum corneum) to any meaningful or functional depth, so it won’t affect stimulation of collagen," says Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, consultant ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon. "It can condition the surface, however, as it works as a humectant to attract and trap moisture so will make skin feel smoother but it won’t actually replace dermal collagen, just by putting it on the surface," she says.

What to Look for

Instead, you want to look for skincare ingredients that stimulate collagen. "If you really want to improve firmness, elasticity and smooth fine lines, look for collagen-boosting ingredients like peptides. Other great ingredients include gentle retinoids (vitamin A), vitamin C and E," says Dr Hawkes. "Vitamin C encourages collagen production but also works to protect against environmental damage and can improve pigmentation caused by sun exposure. These ingredients actively stimulate your skin to produce its own collagen, which is what makes a real difference over time," she says.

"Peptides are the gold standard to look for in your eye creams—they are signalling molecules, so essentially they signal to the fibroblasts (the cells that make structural proteins) to synthesise new collagen and elastin," adds Dr Hawkes. "There are over 300 types of peptides used in skincare, but ingredients like Matrixyl 3000 remain the gold standard because they’re well researched and consistently deliver results."

Scroll on for our edit of the best eye creams and eye serums that harness these ingredients to encourage collagen production, including recommendations from Dr Hawkes.

Best Eye Creams for Collagen Production

• Best Overall: Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye
• Best Peptide Eye Cream: Marks & Spencer Formula Ultra Peptide Eye Cream
• Best Vitamin C Eye Cream: Tatcha The Brightening Eye Cream
• Best Retinal Eye Cream: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal

1. Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye

Retinoids (such as tretinoin, retinol or retinal) are one of the few proven ways to stimulate collagen production. So looking for eye creams such as this one makes for a sensible investment in your eye care. It contains retinaldehyde (which works 11 times faster than retinol) to stimulate collagen production, and it also contains peptides, which help to plump the eye contour. It's a great one to use alongside Medik8's Crystal Retinol serum, and the eye cream version also comes in varying strengths as your skin adjusts, so the results compound over time. I have sensitive skin, but even I've not experienced any irritation with this eye serum.

2. Marks & Spencer Formula Ultra Peptide Eye Cream

When I asked Dr Hawkes to recommend a good peptide eye cream, this eye cream was at the top of the list and comes in at just £20. Clinical trials showed that it reduced fine lines and wrinkles in just four weeks, and it harnesses the plumping effects of peptides, which work in tandem with caffeine, bakuchiol and niacinamide to address dark circles and puffiness. It's a great all-rounder to add to your routine and won't make your bank account cry like other expensive eye creams.

3. Tatcha The Brightening Eye Cream

This luxurious eye cream from Tatcha is one of my favourites. It contains slow-release vitamin C, which helps to encourage collagen production, but also has a skin-brightening effect that can be useful for brightening dark circles. The silky texture never fails to ensure my makeup glides on like butter, so I always recommend it as a good daytime eye cream that will make your concealer sit beautifully throughout the day, too.

4. Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal

This is another of Dr Hawkes' favourites that also happens to come in at under £20. It features 2% retinal liposome to help plump fine lines, whilst ginseng root extract, niacinamide and glycerin work in tandem to hydrate and brighten the eye area. It's a great eye cream to try if you're new to retinal, as it's gentle on sensitive skin and delivers brilliant results with consistent use.

5. Dermalogica Smart Eye Density Redensifying Undereye Serum

Under-eye hollowing can be caused by the loss of collagen in the skin, but it can be very difficult to treat outside of in-clinic treatments; however, since adding this eye cream into my routine, I've noticed a softening in its appearance. The growth factors work to stimulate collagen fibroblasts, helping to plump the delicate, thin skin around the eye area. It has a silky, serum-like texture that makes great prep for makeup application, too.

6. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Lift + Sculpt Eye Cream

7. La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Cream

How We Tested

Each of the eye creams have been tested first-hand by our beauty editorial team, or come at the recommendation of an eye surgeon. We tested the eye creams that contain proven ingredient that help to stimulate collagen production, such as retinoids, vitamin C and peptides, and listed the ones that really work across different budgets to help you find the best collagen-producing eye cream for you.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

The Autumn/Winter 2026 runways have spoken—the cashmere makeup trend spotted on the catwalks of all the most popular luxury fashion houses is about to dominate autumn and winter 2026. And a number of professional makeup artists have already hopped on the trend, showcasing the most beautiful cashmere looks on the chicest celebs.

Personally, after a long summer where the constant heatwaves reduced me to a lightweight, stripped-back routine, I cannot wait to experiment with a heavier makeup look, and this trend feels like the perfect one to try.

Featuring beige and brown hues, a blurred, soft-focus finish, and flushes of colour as opposed to overly-pigmented tones, there’s just something about the cashmere makeup trend that feels particularly well-suited for the cold-weather seasons. So, of course, as someone who works in beauty, I decided to give this look a try for myself. And after many attempts, I think I’ve found the perfect nine-step routine to achieve the ultimate cashmere makeup look.

Keep scrolling to see and shop the nine makeup products I’d recommend so that you too can recreate the cashmere makeup look at home.

What Is "Cashmere" Makeup?

The cashmere makeup trend focuses on creating a soft-focus, velvety base featuring the neutral hues that mimic the cosy but weightless look and feel of a cashmere knit. Sitting somewhere between a matte and dewy finish, but without any of the glow or shine found in a typical makeup routine, the cashmere makeup aesthetic stays away from harsh lines and shimmery bases and instead focuses on a natural-looking, diffused look that’s perfectly suited to the current autumn and upcoming winter season.

The Best Cashmere Makeup Products

• Best Cashmere Foundation: Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation, £54
• Best Cashmere Concealer: Chanel Ultra Le Teint Le Correcteur, £42
• Best Cashmere Blush: MAC Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush, £28
• Best Cashmere Eyeshadow: Danessa Myricks Groundwork Palette, £74
• Best Cashmere Lipstick: Bobbi Brown Luxe Cashmere Matte Lipstick, £36

1. Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer

2. Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation

3. Chanel Ultra Le Teint Le Correcteur Flawless Finish Concealer

4. Refy Skin Finish Setting Powder

5. MAC Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush

6. Marc Jacobs Beauty Legally Bronze Bronzer

7. Danessa Myricks Beauty Groundwork Palette

8. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Contour Duo

9. Bobbi Brown Luxe Cashmere Matte Lipstick

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If you got dressed and left the house today, you most likely threw on a pair of black shoes. Versatile, easy to style and fuss-free, many of us rely on that same pair of black boots, loafers or ballet flats time and time again, no matter the colour or patterns we’re styling them with. But as easy as they can be, I think we can all agree that they can start to feel “samey” and uninspiring if overdone. I mean, look to any fashion person, and, yes, you’ll see plenty of black shoes in their outfit roster, but you’ll also notice they embrace a range of different colours and patterns, too. Alternatives that might even inspire you to swap out your classic black shoes for something different once in a while.

As a self-proclaimed minimalist, I’m aware of how daunting this might sound. But trust me when I say that even the most subtle of swaps can take an outfit from basic to elevated, and it can all lie in your shoe colour. I’m not advocating for overly bold shoes or busy patterns that will take you out of your comfort zone (I mean, we depend on our black pumps for a reason!). Rather, there are a number of sensible alternatives to black shoes that feel equally as classic as they do interesting. And the best part? They all remain pared-back, versatile and easy to style, meaning they’re sure to stand the test of time in your capsule wardrobe.

So, without further ado, keep scrolling as below, I’ve rounded up six chic alternatives that might just convince you to ditch your standard black shoes this winter.

6 Chic Alternatives to Black Shoes to Try This Winter

1. Espresso

Style Notes: Arguably the closest shade to black, deep espresso brown shoes will act as a softer but no less versatile option this winter. Often, when wearing lighter neutrals such as cream or tan, black shoes can feel a little too harsh contrasted against them, so espresso will act as the perfect medium, feeling a little more cohesive with your lighter winter palette, but still deep enough to remain well within the comfort zone of a minimalist.

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2. Fawn

Style Notes: If you’ve also been obsessed with the light fawn hues popping up all over Instagram lately, then you’ll be pleased to know that the most polished dressers are wearing it as an alternative to black shoes. This colour in shoe form feels unexpected enough to add interest to your outfits but will pair well with both neutrals and bold colours and patterns alike. Me personally? I’ll either be going head to toe in this elegant shade or using it to break up my all-black outfits.

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3. Animal Print

Style Notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear UK, then you’ll know how much we appreciate a tasteful animal-print shoe. Whether it be snake, leopard, cow or even the most recently trending deer print, shoes in these patterns feel elevated and act as a point of difference in an otherwise pared-back outfit. But the neutral hues keep it feeling classic and timeless for a minimalist like me. Most recently, I invested in Topshop’s chic cheetah print ballet pumps below, and trust me when I say it’s already made a world of difference to my outfit rotations.

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4. Merlot

Style Notes: Burgundy has practically become a neutral in the wardrobes of elegant dressers, but I’ll let you in on a secret: deeper merlot hues are even chicer. Similar to espresso brown, this gorgeously deep hue feels similar enough to black that it feels wearable and easy to style, but the wine-inspired shade just adds that something extra to an outfit that’s not easy to replicate. My priority this winter? Finding a pair of Merlot boots that will take my black, brown and cream outfits from basic to elevated in seconds.

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5. Chalk

Style Notes: Gone are the days when white shoes were considered “dated”. In fact, in 2026, it’s been pretty much agreed by editors and influencers alike that white shoes bring a fresh touch to the typical dark palette we see throughout autumn and winter. It might initially feel quite out there for my fellow minimalists, so to keep them feeling wearable, start off by styling them with chalk, cream and tan separates that don’t feel too far away from the hue. But of course, if you’re feeling a little bolder, this colour will look considered and intentional contrasted against black and dark brown clothing.

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6. Two-Tone Neutrals

Style Notes: When it comes to black shoe alternatives, other block colours might initially come to mind. However, the two-tone neutral shoe trend that’s been taking off all over London, Paris and New York is just as compelling. Remaining neutral and therefore extremely wearable and timeless. This shoe trend will fit in seamlessly with any capsule wardrobe. But the two contrasting tones (whichever two colours you pick) will make any winter outfit look extremely thought out and intentional. You’ve probably already seen the iconic two-tone Chanel ballet flats, but you’ll be pleased to know that both the luxury and High Street markets are currently filled with a myriad of contrasting coloured shoes to invest in this season.

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There’s no denying that autumn/winter dressing requires a little more thought than the summer months. The days of simply throwing on a light cotton dress, slipping on sandals and grabbing the closest basket bag are well and truly behind us, but don’t fret. The ease of summer may be a selling point, but there’s a lot to be excited about as the cooler days settle into place.

With the leaves browning and a crisp chill returning to the air, getting dressed is about to get a whole lot more interesting. The art of layering is back in business, textures are turned up to the max, and rich shades return to prominence. And if you’re building your autumn/winter wardrobe right now, there are a few fashion brands that are always a reliable starting point.

This time of year is when I invest a little more in my wardrobe. Whether it’s sumptuous cashmere, temperature-regulating merino or supple leather, the cooler days demand more from fabrics and designs, and investing a little more in high-quality compositions and designs can result in a refined wardrobe that sees you through this autumn/winter period and every one to come. For me, the focus is on well-made pieces that have the design and material properties to be long-standing features in my wardrobe for years to come.

With this focus in mind, I’ve curated an edit of the fashion brands that do autumn/winter dressing best. Of course, they excel year-round, but I truly believe they come into their own when the temperatures drop. Take Nour Hammour, for example, experts in leather pieces, whose refined jackets and outerwear can be spotted every time the temperatures drop. For those looking to update their knitwear collection, I’ve hand-selected a series of brands that are dedicated to quality compositions, as well as experts in techniques to create textures and finishes that bring intrigue to even the simplest jumper-and-jeans look.

The running thread between each of these fashion brands is that they focus on composition and enduring design. Whilst contemporary detailing and signature accents can be seen throughout, the pieces rise above moving trends, making for investment pieces that you’ll call upon every single autumn and winter. Now, to the good bit. Scroll on to explore the seven best luxury brands for autumn and winter.

Explore the Best Luxury Brands for Autumn/Winter 2026

1. The Row

Style Notes: The Row’s infatuation with classic designs has cemented its spot at the top of this list. If you know anything about the brand, you’ll know that its pieces tend to move fast, and each of its best-selling creations can be spotted years later, still exuding a sophisticated mood regardless of the current trend cycle. For autumn and winter, look out for timeless outerwear, slouchy knitwear and the return of the beloved Gala pants.

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2. Róhe

Style Notes: With a pared-back mood and understated feel, Róhe plays with proportion and intricate detailing to set its pieces apart. Unexpected silhouettes, asymmetrical finishes and precise tailoring bring a timeless yet joyful mood to its creations. This season, look out for excellent tailored trousers, tactile finishes of velvet and satin, and polished colourways that blend easily with the rest of your wardrobe.

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3. Lisa Yang

Style Notes: Lisa Yang is dedicated to cashmere. From tactile brushed cardigans to luxurious cashmere coats, the Stockholm-based brand works with the fibre to unveil all the possibilities of this luxurious fabric. Note the Doria sweater as a standout for the season with a thick ribbed neckline in a deep scoop neck.

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4. Toteme

Style Notes: As a brand dedicated to longstanding wardrobe heroes, Toteme rarely follows the trends, but it has certainly set them. Ever since the brand's toggle jacket hit the digital shelves, a thousand copies continue to launch every season, and the original owners continue to pull theirs out every time the temperatures drop. It even managed to make the striped turtleneck knit a cult classic. Now, a new series of forever buys have emerged, any one of which will feel like a contemporary addition for years to come.

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5. Nour Hammour

Style Notes: When it comes to refined outerwear, Nour Hammour are experts. Starting from a singular leather jacket, the brand has evolved into full ready-to-wear collections, but still retains its craftspersonship, dedication to refinement and enduring designs. Whilst the entire scope of its offering, from bags to skirts to knitwear, gets my seal of approval, the outerwear deserves a particular highlight here.

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6. Almada

Style Notes: If you've ever wondered how stylish people can make simple buys look so chic, it may be because Almada's carefully designed styles do the work. The brand focuses on capsule wardrobe heroes with classic detailing and timeless accents that will go the distance in your wardrobe thanks to the high-quality materials. Their best-sellers are frequently spotted on stylish people, from the Yara V-neck knit to the sleek Bea Crepe trousers.

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7. Soft Goat

Style Notes: Soft Goat specialises in the cosy pieces you'll depend on during the autumn and winter months. Think the most sumptuous cashmere jumper that earns compliments every time you wear it, or a refined double-face coat that perfectly balances warmth and style. The pieces are intricately crafted with timeless detailing to ensure their longevity in your wardrobe, and I can personally attest to just how soft and high-quality the fabrics are.

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We've entered the time of year in which jeans are the primary outfit component, and It girls across the globe are proving it daily as of late. Two recent examples are the 20-something Daisy Edgar-Jones and the 30-something Emma Stone, who stepped out this week wearing the rich-looking trend all the chicest dresses are wearing with jeans right now: jacquard jackets (or, similarly, brocade jackets).

The theme of fall 2026 fashion has been opulence, and jacquard jackets have become the buzzy item people are primarily shopping for as a result. These jackets, in which the ornate pattern is directly woven into the fabric, are the easiest way to dress up jeans and make your outfit as a whole look incredibly expensive. As for Edgar-Jones, she opted for a fitted white jacquard jacket from Mango, while Stone went with a longer gray collared iteration with her jeans. It's an easy, versatile outfit combination that looks both trend-forward and classic.

Scroll on to see Edgar-Jones and Stone in their similar jean outfits, and shop chic jacquard jackets to follow their lead.

The Trend on Daisy Edgar-Jones and Emma Stone

On Daisy Edgar-Jones: Mango Jacquard Jacket With Stand Collar ($270); Jude Fame Leather Pumps ($630)

On Emma Stone: Louis Vuitton bag; Khaite sandals

Shop Jacquard Jackets

You could say denim is the workhorse of a fall wardrobe, but I'd argue the dress is. There's nothing more versatile and low-lift than an elegant dress. Wear it with sheer, printed, or no tights. Opt for knee-high boots, a ruched loafer, or a ballet flat. Add on a suede jacket or a denim trucker. Layer a turtleneck underneath or show a little skin. The options are endless; all I know is I've got my entire week's outfits hanging up in my wardrobe right now. Little to no ironing needed, and the right dress does the styling for me.

Scroll on to shop some of my favorite fall dresses for 2026. I called on classics like a faux-suede mini shift dress from Gap and a sultry black mockneck midi dress from Hutch. I also looked for color and texture, which I found in Old Navy x Altuzarra and Alexa Chung's recent collaboration with Reformation. Ahead, you'll find everything from flirty floral maxi to heritage plaid mini dresses.

Shop the Best Fall Dresses of 2026

The second the temperatures started dropping into the 60s in New York City, there's one polarizing shoe that gets pulled back out after being stored away for the summer: Uggs. Case in point: Emily Ratajkowski seen wearing a pair to a farmers market in Brooklyn on September 20.

With a long-standing celebrity fan base, you may remember one of Uggs defining eras in the early 2000s—often the shoe-of-choice in paparazzi photos of stars like Paris Hilton and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Whether you love them or hate them, since then, they've endured the test of times, worn more recently by Addison Rae, Bella Hadid, Charli xcx, Devon Lee Carlson, Dua Lipa, Jennifer Lawrence, and Lily-Rose Depp (the list goes on).

Even our editors love them: associate features editor Ana Escalante has the tall boots and seeing associate editorial director Eliza Huber in the micro slip-ons made me want them too. Keep scrolling to shop the fall-winter staple, available on Nordstrom, Revolve, Shopbop, and Ugg's website.

Shop Uggs

On Nordstrom

On Revolve

On Shopbop

On Uggs

For a long time, the knee-length skirt felt like something I'd wear to a job interview and then never think about again. Minis had their moment, midis took over after that, and the hemline that hits right at the knee got stuck with a reputation for being a little too sensible. That's changing fast this fall.

Lately, the most stylish people I follow have been reaching for skirts that stop right at the knee and wearing them in ways that feel anything but stuffy, with lace trims, leather, cool blazers, and plain white tees. It's a length that works with everything from ballet flats to knee-high boots, which is probably why I can't stop seeing it. Keep scrolling to see how cool people are styling it, then shop my favorite knee-length skirts for fall.

How To Style It

This skirt is giving corner-office energy with a little secret. The lace hem is the last thing anyone expects to see at a 10 a.m. meeting, which is exactly why I love it. Keep the flats on and head straight to drinks after.

Main-character energy, no notes. A red leather skirt with a white tee is the outfit I'd want to be wearing to anything on my calendar. The chunky beads are just a bonus.

This is what I picture a gallery director wearing on a random Tuesday. All black, a blazer that's a little too big on purpose, and slingbacks doing all the talking.

Saturday morning in a Paris apartment. A denim skirt and a white tee couldn't be easier, and the pointed flats make it look like you tried just enough.

My Wishlist