If you're anything like me, September has always marked the unofficial start of autumn. The calendar might still indicate summer for a few more weeks, but once the last bank holiday passes and the evenings start drawing in, my mind instantly turns to autumnal dressing.
It's the season I find most exciting in terms of fashion, where wardrobes get a little more interesting thanks to layering tricks, new textures and a renewed focus on the classics. Knitwear becomes a daily staple, boots return in all their glory and coats take centre stage in a way they simply can't at any other time of year. For me, autumn is about reintroducing those wardrobe heroes that, with a few key updates, make everything feel fresh again.
One thing I've learnt over the years is that finding those "just right" seasonal updates is as much about where you shop as what you buy. For me, NET-A-PORTER has become less of a website I scroll and more of a mood board I return to every September. I'll admit that I sometimes browse the luxury retailer's edits before seeking inspiration on any other site, or even looking at Instagram. The mix of big-name designers with up-and-coming labels always sparks new outfit ideas, and I love that the site doesn't just lean into obvious trends but curates pieces that feel wearable in real life, which is what I need as the calendar starts to fill up again.
This year, I've bookmarked a handful of items that sit in that sweet spot; pieces that nod to the season's mood but still feel like me. And that, in the end, is why NET-A-PORTER has become the place where I always find my autumn wardrobe foundations. It’s less about buying fully into a trend and more about adding the smart pieces that make everything else in my wardrobe work harder.
So, what's made the cut for my autumn 2025 wardrobe refresh? A layering coat I'll be glad I invested in once the weather turns, a knit that feels special enough to dress up but still works for lounging on the sofa, a pair of shoes that will carry me through the changing weather with ease; a denim update that ticks the box for effortless everyday dressing, elevated autumnal dresses, blouses for more than just the office; and, of course, a classic bag I know I'll be reaching for constantly.
Some are investment buys, some are more trend-focused, but all will slip in easily alongside the rest of my wardrobe. This is why NET-A-PORTER is my go-to: the pieces never feel disposable, and there's always that sense of versatility that stretches far beyond one season. Keep scrolling to see the seven categories I'm backing this autumn, plus the exact pieces on my wish list right now.
Shop My Favourite Autumn Wardrobe Heroes from NET-A-PORTER:
1. Elevated Layering
Style Notes: Outerwear is the first part of your outfit that people see, and in autumn, it essentially becomes the outfit. That's why I always like to invest in one strong layering piece at the start of the season. It has to work over a knit and jeans on casual days, but still look sharp enough when layered over tailoring. The best options are never fussy but have those small design details (unique closures, a slightly unexpected texture) that make them feel elevated.
Shop Layering Pieces:
The clean lines and buttons make this feel so modern. It's very much a throw-over-anything-and-look-put-together piece.
I spotted someone wearing a similar style last year, and it hasn't left my mind since.
I've been leaning into boxy tailoring, and this oversized barn jacket ticks that balance between smart and off-duty.
Perfect for transitional days when it's not quite coat weather, this is lightweight but still has that directional edge.
2. Ultimate Knitwear
Style Notes: For a fashion person, there's nothing quite like the ritual of bringing our knitwear back into rotation. This season, I'm after pieces that aren't just cosy but also have a little design twist, whether that's a bold colour or a heritage shape in cashmere. These are the knits that don't just sit quietly under a coat, but make the outfit in their own right.
Shop Knitwear:
Sleek, classic and exactly the kind of knit I'll wear on repeat for work days.
This brand does cardigans and knits better than anyone, in my opinion. I'll be wearing this style in particular with wide-leg trousers and trainers.
I saw this exact piece styled under a trench at Copenhagen Fashion Week, and it was perfection.
The shape is instantly recognisable, and I love how it works just as well with trousers as it does draped over dresses.
3. Chic and Sensible Shoes
Style Notes: Shoes are always where I start to feel the seasonal shift. Sandals get packed away, and suddenly I'm looking for pairs that work harder; something I can wear all day whilst still feeling polished if I head straight out in the evening. Think timeless loafers, a modern ballet flat, boots that ground everything and heels that don't sacrifice comfort.
Shop Shoes:
A pair of loved Dries trainers in a seasonal colourway? Count me in.
It's not autumn without a pair of Aeyde Mary Janes worn with some ribbed socks.
I've had great experiences with Emme Parson's sizing, and these slip on so easily.
A knee-high boot like this instantly updates denim and midi skirts alike.
4. Traditional Denim
Style Notes: Autumn always pushes me back to denim. The perfect pair of jeans isn't just an everyday essential; it's the foundation for everything else. Whether straight-leg, wide or relaxed, I want denim that feels versatile enough for both ankle boots and flats, and washes that will still look good a year from now.
Shop Denim:
Every stylist I know swears by these Agolde jeans. They're mid-rise with just the right amount of structure.
Relaxed but not too slouchy, these barrel-leg jeans remind me of model-off-duty denim looks.
Go for a bleached wash with twisted seams if you want something a little more directional.
I wore these Ayla jeans constantly last year, and this lighter wash is the perfect evolution of the silhouette.
5. Classic Bags
Style Notes: The right bag carries you through not just a season but an entire year, which is why I like to pick something classic but with a subtle twist. This year, I'm drawn to structured shapes that feel smart for work but are still easy for weekends. The best ones add quiet luxury to even the simplest jeans-and-a-knit outfit.
Shop Bags:
I keep seeing this on the shoulders of editors. It's understated luxury at its best.
The craftspersonship on this is next level, and I love that the shape is instantly recognisable without screaming with logos.
I'd happily carry this to every dinner I have lined up this season.
The colour, the suede, the roomy size—it all screams autumn.
6. Effortless Dresses
Style Notes: When it comes to dresses in autumn, I want pieces I can throw on and instantly feel pulled together, whether for an office day, dinner or a weekend brunch. The key is versatility: styles that can be layered under coats, worn with boots now and sandals come spring. Think minimal shapes with just enough detail to feel considered.
Shop Dresses:
I love the mix of ribbed knit and poplin material. This is a true transitional piece.
I can see this worn with classic loafers or knee-high boots.
I've had my eye on this brand for a few seasons now. The ruched waist on this dress is so flattering and instantly elevates it from simple to standout.
A slip dress is always worth having. This one works solo now and will look just as good layered with a chunky knit when it gets colder. Pro tip: keep the neckline peeking out to nod to this season's lace-trim trend.
7. Polished Blouses
Style Notes: Blouses are an autumn staple I always forget until I need them on those days when I want to look smart but not overly formal. They're perfect for desk-to-dinner outfits, and the best ones layer easily under blazers whilst still feeling special enough to stand on their own.
Shop Blouses:
I own a few Dries Van Noten pieces, and the fabric quality is second to none.
This pussy-bow blouse nods to '70s styling but with a modern ease. I'd wear it with wide-leg denim or tucked into tailoring.
This sweet navy piece is definitely autumn-wardrobe appropriate.
Carven is a brand I've just discovered, and from the amount of autumn staples I've already bookmarked, it's definitely one to have on your radar, too. Top of my list? This deep brown wool-felt blouse.
