Damn right I'd like a Max Mara coat, some Paris Texas knee-high boots, a printed dress from Prada and a new ruched Bottega Veneta Cassette bag, but in reality, my autumn shopping budget doesn't look like it'll stretch that much. I'll always advocate for saving up for a dream investment piece (and any of the above suggestions last year after year, no matter the trends), but the same kind of thinking can also be applied to high-street or more affordable fashions when you want to upgrade and breathe new life into your existing wardrobe.
So if you're looking for a little autumn/winter 2023 vibe, rest assured you don't have to spend a fortune, but you should still spend wisely. Try to seek out pieces that feel like they'll work with what you already have nestled away in the depths of your closet. (If in doubt, go home and try on items with at least three other outfits to see if your purchase is versatile enough.) Don't buy something so niche and specific that it requires a full outfit built around it. Why? Because you'll end up putting down more cash than you'd intended to, and you could've just bought something special and luxe instead.
One of the best ways to make sensible purchases that go the distance is to keep things relatively pared-back. Or you could just follow my guidance on the kind of items that can look expensive even on a lean budget. I've pulled together some example ensembles you can craft without denting your credit card this autumn. Keep scrolling to see and shop them.
1. BLAZER + JEANS + HEELS
Style Notes: An oldie but a goodie, this season's take on the blazer-and-jeans formula involves a skintight top, gold jewellery and strappy heels.
Shop the look:
High street blazers are good enough to rival designers.
We bet you already own one, but this Mango vest is such good quality.
They're called Favourite for a reason.
A classic you'll wear across all seasons.
Layer with a pendant.
2. COSY JUMPER + WIDE LEG TROUSERS
Style Notes: A chunky—not too thick but not too clingy—jumper always looks effortless with tailored trousers. Or even jeans, leather trousers, or a slip skirt.
Shop the look:
H&M's knitwear offering is so good right now.
The elasticated waistband meeans peak comfort.
You'll wear these on repeat, no doubt.
3. BOUCLE JACKET + TAILORED TROUSERS
Style Notes: In general, if you pick a family of colours and wear them head to toe, you're going to look slick. This is especially true for shades of white, beige and cream. Oh, and a pair of ballet pumps and jolt of matte red lipstick will never do you wrong in this instance.
Shop the look:
This also comes in classic black.
These would also look so expensive with a black T-shirt, blazer and loafers.
Love the two-tone texture of this elegant pair.
4. TROUSER SUIT + HEELS
Style Notes: A trouser suit never fails and will always look premium in a more neutral hue like grey, khaki or tan. This could look just as good styled with flats, heels or boots.
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You can wear this with the sleeves unzipped or like a classic jacket.
With trainers, heeled boots or loafers, you'll wear them on repeat.
A Who What Wear editor favourite.
These affordable heels will work hard for you this winter and beyond.
5. KNITTED DRESS + GOLD JEWELLERY
Style Notes: Knitted dresses are always a winner. Cosy, comfy yet so chic—you can dress them up or down with a simple swap of accessories and footwear.
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How good would this look with knee-highs?
Our dream boots.
A gold hoop is such a classic.
A chain necklace will go with all your autumn looks.
6. DENIM + STRIPED JUMPER + BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: It's the pairing of the season. Stripes and denim are such a perfect combo, and it's highly likely you own enough pieces to pull this together already.
Shop the look:
What a find!
Baggy jeans add a cool touch to any look.
Parisian girls love ballet flats.
7. LEATHER JACKET + LEGGINGS + BOOTS
Style Notes: Distressed leather jackets are hot property this season, so why not team them with another favourite buy, leggings, just like Marilyn? Wear yours with chunky bikers boots to make it seasonably palatable.
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We can also see this with a miniskirt and loafers.
Unzip the hem and wear with heels too.
Ready to elevate any look (quite literally).
8. SLIP SKIRT + MOHAIR JUMPER
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to make your outfits look more expensive is to mix up textures. Silk and mohair are always a good match.
Shop the look:
So damn cosy.
You'll never believe this slinky skirt is from the high street.
The trainer of the year.
9. SWEATER + MINISKIRT + CHUNKY LOAFERS
Style Notes: There’s just something so appealing about the combination of a miniskirt, a chunky knit and loafers, as demonstrated here by Aimee. Sure, it might be preppy, but this is a look that has stood the test of time since the ’50s, so who are we to argue?
Shop the look:
We predict this will sell out. Fast.
There's built in shorts if you're not willing to take on the micro mini that was everywhere last year.
The chunkier the better.
Next Up, 5 Chic 10-Minute Outfits That Make Getting Dressed So Easy
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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