Warning: If you struggle receiving compliments, this might not be the Who What Wear article for you.
I think it's safe to say that looking chic is something many of us are striving for right now and, on the cusp of a new season, I thought now would be the perfect time to round up some elegant autumn outfits that, if you follow the required steps to re-create them, will make it easy to do just that—look polished all season long. However, not even I was prepared for the calibre of outfits I'd find and, if being given compliments all day long makes you feel awkward or uneasy, I'd advise ignoring the below.
If, however, you're interested in feeling sophisticated and demure (and won't get tired of people singing your stylish praises), then I suggest you peruse the following looks at your earliest convenience. Built using pieces that many of us are bound to already have in our wardrobes, the nine elegant autumn outfits I found shouldn't break the bank, either. Of course, if you fancy upgrading your rotation, I've shopped them all out for you. Now, all that's left for you to do is practice your best surprised, humble face in the mirror before you venture out in them.
9 Elegant Autumn Outfits I'll Be Wearing This Season
1. Coat + Minidress + Mary Janes
Style Notes: Getting the length of your coat to look right with the dress or skirt that you're wearing underneath it can be tricky, but this issue is negated when you opt for a shorter dress and longer outerwear. It's hard to explain why, but this pairing always looks so inherently elegant, especially, as it turns out, when worn with sleek mary janes.
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This coat is a fashion-editor favourite for good reason.
You could also wear this come spring with a pair of ballet flats.
French-girl approved.
This affordable accessory will take your outfit from basic to chic.
2. Suit + Plain Top + Loafers
Style Notes: Is there anything chicer than a cream suit? While you ponder that, allow me to further bolster my case. Add in a contrasting pair of black leather loafers and finish with a simple vest top (boat neck vests look particularly current) and you're guaranteed to look sharp.
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Wear with the matching trousers or dress it down with some baggy jeans.
I've been obsessed with boat-neck tops recently.
So chic.
My dream loafers.
3. High-Neck Top + Full Skirt + Mules
Style Notes: 2025 has been the year of the skirt and that look set to continue as we head into autumn. For me, nothing says "elegance" quite like a full circle skirt. Keep the rest of your outfit unfussy to let the silhouette shine.
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An easy layering piece.
Chocolate brown is going nowhere in 2025.
These are a bestseller for good reason.
The finishing touch.
4. Trench Coat + White Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: Trench coats are synonymous with the British autumn season, and I'm already seeing so many fashion people dust of theirs ahead of the cold weather. For an easy transeasonal look, try pairing your trench with white jeans and loafers.
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An autumn/winter icon.
So many of our editors own and love this tee.
White jeans are not just for summer.
The square-toe makes these look way more expensive than they are.
5. Stripe Shirt + Pencil Skirt + Pointed-Toe Shoes
Style Notes: Another demure-looking skirt trend is that of the pencil skirt. 2025's iterations are less about being knee length and more about skimming the floor—just add an elegant-looking, blue striped shirt, keeping a handy knit knotted around your shoulders.
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You can never go wrong with a striped button-up.
Throw this over your shoulders for when it gets chilly.
Perfect for in or out of the office.
Sleek, simple and easy to style.
This will contrast nicely with the black leather slingbacks.
6. Leather Jacket + Wide-Leg Trousers + Flats
Style Notes: Leather and suede jackets are having a moment already this season; in place of jeans, try wearing yours with refined tailored trousers and leather flat shoes. Then, for a fashionable, on-trend finish, add a pair of statement earrings.
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This belted style feels more sophisticated than your typical leather biker.
Throw on with tees or tanks on warmer days.
These will go with everything.
7. Roll-Neck Jumper + Bermuda Shorts + Heels
Style Notes: If you invested in Bermuda shorts this summer then you'll be pleased to hear that the trend has staying power for autumn, too. Thanks to the longer hemline, they'll work well and look seamless worn with over-the-knee boots. Whatever shoe you choose, stick to a sleek-fitting top for a classic finish, such as a black, roll-neck knit.
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This sells out every year.
Every wardrobe needs a go with everything belt.
You'll reach for these cinstantly.
Obsessed.
The woven leather is instantly recognisable.
8. Tweed Jacket + Jeans + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Tweed jackets are one of the most elegant staples you can invest in. Stick to a neutral, cream or black style for maximum versatility. While it will work with more formal separates, I find tweed jackets look their most charming worn with low-key bottoms, such as straight-leg jeans or drawstring trousers.
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This also comes in black, beige and burgundy.
Reviews say this is so comfy.
These will contrast nicely with the more formal jacket.
Très chic!
9. Coat + Miniskirt + Slingback Flats
Style Notes: Another long coat look that I can't wait to emulate, I'll be sourcing cute minis that match the hues of the coats already hanging in my wardrobe to create chic, matching sets akin to this one.
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This has me counting down the days until winter.
An easy way to look put together? Match your coat with you mini skirt.
These could easily pass as designer.
A top-handle bag will always get a yes from me.
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