Shop H&M's Early Autumn Basics

The first signs of autumn are officially here. Leaves have started to fall, temperatures are slowly dipping and, after what feels like an endless stream of heatwaves, we've finally reached that sweet spot where a lightweight jacket or knit thrown over the shoulders feels just right. Despite it still being August, I've already found myself digging out the autumn staples I packed away months ago—only to realise there are a few key gaps in my wardrobe that would make navigating this notoriously tricky transitional period infinitely easier. My first port of call? H&M.

One scroll through H&M's new-in section and practically every box on my early-autumn checklist was ticked. Jackets are particularly strong, spanning polished funnel-neck styles, cropped trenches and expensive-looking faux suede, whilst lightweight knits come in the form of knitted tees and fine-gauge cardigans that are perfect for layering. Denim has been given a new-season refresh, too, with relaxed wide-leg and timeless straight-leg silhouettes taking centre stage.

Even the accessories are signalling the seasonal shift. Loafers and velvet ballet flats are replacing the sandals we've lived in all summer, whilst capacious totes feel like a welcome return after months of raffia and basket bags. So, if you're also ready to start easing your wardrobe into the new season, keep scrolling for the H&M early-autumn staples I think will make transitional dressing that much easier.

Shop H&M's Early Autumn Basics

H&M

Short Trench Coat

Short trench coats are officially back on the fashion agenda.

H&M

Knitted T-Shirt

A knitted top is the perfect transitional wardrobe item.

H&M

Wide High Waist Jeans

These sell out every single autumn—and for good reason.

H&M

Loafers

A chic pair of loafers that look so much more expensive than they are.

H&M

Scarf-Collar Bubble-Hem Jacket

The scarf-collar and the bubble hem details make this not just any autumn jacket.

H&M

Double-Breasted Trench Coat

Trench coat season is fast approaching, and H&M's trenches always seem to sell out first.

H&M

Lace-Inset Peplum Blouse

Just add jeans and loafers for the perfect autumn outfit.

H&M

Fine-Knit Collared Jumper

Embrace your inner preppy with this chic collared knit.

H&M

Barrel High Waist Jeans

The barrel-leg shape proves that tailoring can be cool.

H&M

Bubble-Hem Jacket

Pair with the matching cargo trousers for a cool-girl certified ensemble.

H&M

Loose-Fit Cardigan

A lightweight cardigan will be the MVP of your autumn wardrobe.

H&M

Wide Belted Trousers

From the pleats to the wide-leg design, these black trousers will be the backbone of your autumn wardrobe.

H&M

Shopper

The perfect carry-all that fits everything but the kitchen sink.

H&M

Oversized Trench Coat

Another example of H&M's brilliant outerwear, this trench coat perfectly balances sharp tailoring with an effortless ease.

H&M

Gathered-Sleeve Blazer

Just add jeans and loafers.

H&M

Fringed Viscose Blouse

A chic blouse that will immediately elevate denim.

H&M

Knee-High Boots

Trust me: these will be out of stock by September.

H&M

Cashmere-Blend Jumper

If you told me this was The Row, I'd believe you.

H&M

Velvet Ballet Flats

So chic.

Marina Avraam is Senior Shopping Editor at Who What Wear UK, where she expertly navigates Zara, H&M, Toteme and Net-a-Porter (to name but a few) on a daily basis to unearth the most worthwhile pieces, while valiantly resisting the urge to add every single one to her basket. At Who What Wear, Marina is committed to curating a shopping experience that feels both aspirational and intentional, guiding readers to items—both affordable and investment—that will genuinely benefit their wardrobes.