And Now, the Classic Luxury Buys Our Editors Are Standing by This Autumn
From standout dresses to timeless handbags, six editors weigh in on the most worthwhile luxury buys of autumn 2026.
It’s no secret that we Who What Wear editors love to find chic buys at a more affordable price point. Of course, there are some great value, classic pieces to be found on the great British high street that will last a long time in your collection. But sometimes, when curating your forever wardrobe, you’re looking to spend a bit more on quality, luxury items that then elevate the rest of your wardrobe effortlessly. And while we do love an expensive-looking bargain, as experts in the industry, we also know a thing or two about a smart designer fashion investment.
So, as we're almost into spring, I thought I would ask my fellow editors: what’s on their luxury wish list right now, and their answers didn’t disappoint. We're talking beautifully crafted bags, sleek ballet flats, light autumn jackets and, of course, plenty of dresses. Pieces that they love now but will also stand by forever. One thing’s for sure, these women know how to elongate someone else’s wish list in a heartbeat—you've been warned.
Below you can see and shop their current luxury shopping picks. Not everything on our lists is wildly expensive—some are little luxuries— but rest assured, when they do come with a higher price tag, it’s on there because we believe it’s worth every penny. There are some all-time classics we’ve been lusting after for a long time, and some fresher new-in pieces that already seem just as timeless. Any one of these buys, though, feels rightly special and will add polish to your everyday wardrobes for many years to come. Keep scrolling for some luxurious shopping inspiration…
Shop Our Editors Autumn Wish-List Items:
1. Rebecca Rhys-Evans, Acting Deputy Editor
Shop Rebecca's Picks:
"The Row's bags are known to sell out so fast, so I've been waiting patiently to add the iconic Park tote to my collection. Now, I'm glad I did, as this sleek reddish-brown shade has emerged. The spacious size means I'll be able to use it every day, whether I'm heading to work or on a weekend shopping trip."
"Already selling fast! Amina Muaddi is an expert in excellent footwear and I've long wanted a pair of the brand's iconic shoes in my collection. As we're approaching autumn, I know a pair of sleek knee high boots will work hard over the next few seasons, styled up with dresses or even peeking out under tailored trousers."
2. Poppy Nash, Managing Editor
Shop Poppy's Picks:
"This autumn, I’m finally looking to invest in a Nour Hammour jacket. The fashion-insider favourite, Paris-based brand excels in excellently crafted leather jackets, including this elegant collarless style. Find this as a prominent feature in my wardrobe for many years to come."
"All eyes are on Bottega's new Corso bag. The understated style nods to its luxury origins with the eye-catching intrecciatto weave and will hold its place in my wardrobe over the years thanks to the minimalist design. Expect to see me carrying this for the next decade and beyond."
"I've been looking for a way to take my knitwear to a whole new level, and now I've found it. From New York to London, stylish dressers are reaching for wrap cardigans with added detailing, and this fringed style from By Malene Birger hits the brief. I'll be styling it up first with jeans and flats."
3. Florrie Alexander, Shopping Editor
Shop Florrie's Picks:
"Everywhere I look, fashion people are talking about Rixo's latest collection. In particular, this exact jacket. After trying it on myself, I completely understand why this jacket is now on pre-order. It's striking, exudes elegance, and the oversized silhouette allows you to throw it over a T-shirt now or layer up with a knit on the coolest days."
4. Marina Avraam, Senior Shopping Editor
Shop Marina's Picks:
"It doesn't get much more classic than a Burberry trench coat. With the autumn days rolling in, I'm updating my capsule wardrobe, and finally I'm ready to invest in a trench coat that will bring a sophisticated edge to my cold-weather dressing every single year."
"So many of my fashion friends have a pair of Khaite boots in their arsenal, and after weeks of searching for the perfect pair, I've finally found them. From the distinctive stitching to the kitten heel, I know these will be a staple piece in my wardrobe for years to come."
5. Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer
Shop Ava's Picks:
"After seeing these in The Row's Mayfair boutique, I haven't been able to get them out of my mind. Investing in eyewear during a season that is perpetually grey might sound obsolete. But like most all of Mary-Kate and Ashley's contributions to fashion—the Olsen Tuck and pashmina shawl obsession notwithstanding—they make a case for how considered accessories can make an outfit feel more stylish. With a shield-esque shape that will cover up any winter congestion and purple under-eye bags, this will elevate anything from a knitted V-neck to a simple leather jacket."
"Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette is about to celebrate its 20th anniversary, so there feels no better time to invest in these low-rise trousers to celebrate. With a brocade fabric and gilded silhouette, this feels like something you'd find hanging in some cosy corner of Versailles. And honestly, between the rise of tapestry bags and embroidered fur-trimmed coats, who wouldn't want to walk around looking like a 17th-Century chateau.'
"After writing about the return of maximalism, it's only right I practice what I preach by injecting more flair, colour and clashing textures into my wardrobe. These earrings from Jennifer Behr do exactly that, in the most sophisticated way possible. The opal effect also strikes a slightly nostalgic note for me, as it was my late grandmother's favourite gemstone. A family heirloom in the making, for sure."
6. Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor
Shop Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolakis Picks:
"I've been searching for a new bag to become my everyday companion, and Polène's new Boky style ticks all the boxes. The assembly of pouches secures all my daily essentials in place and true to the brand's design eye, the sculptural silhouette is eye-catching from every angle. This cherry red is calling to me, slotting instantly into my autumn palette but will also bring a richness to my spring and summer looks too”.
"Saint Laurent's technical jacket was an instant cult hit earlier this year. Now that the weather has cooled, the sell-out style is back, and I'm ready to make space in my wardrobe for it. Already this season, I've spotted stylish women wearing theirs with everything from simple denim to tailored skirts."
“I immediately stopped scrolling when I came across these striking red heels. The croc-effect sets these apart from any other in my collection, and this bold shade is going to revitalise my current wardrobe. I'll be wearing them casually with jeans and my technical jacket above, and restyling them for dressier occasions with a simple LBD."
Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.