Karine steps out in the streets of London in a cool oversized blazer and baggy jeans look.
Now it's September, London Fashion Week will soon be here which for us, always signifies the start of autumn––and we're not-so-secretly glad. There's nothing like a new season to make you want to reassess your wardrobe, pull out gems you haven't worn for months and identify any gaps. To celebrate, we've looked to some of London's most stylish dressers to see which trends they're already backing for autumn and how they're mastering this notoriously tricky time for dressing. Needless to say, their outfits threw up a wealth of inspiration.
It turns out that just a handful of key buys can bring your wardrobe instantly up-to-date for autumn—be it a new bag shape or an inspired flat shoe choice. And of course London people often stick to timeless wardrobe essentials such as the timeless trench coat or fail-safe wide-leg trousers to create this capsule.
Scroll through the 10 pieces that are all you need to compile the ultimate London autumn edit to carry you through the next few months.
1. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: There are so many reasons to embrace the ballet flat, but mainly the fact they're so comfy, go with anything and make you look effortlessly put together. And they'll also keep your feet more dry than sandals during the unpredictable forecasts.
Shop the trend:
A cool alternative to black.
To go with any outfit, always.
2. Directional Trenches
Style Notes: If you've been hankering after a classic trench, may we point you in the direction of one with an unusual twist? Whether it's oversized, deconstructed or cape-like, you'll reap the benefits of being able to chuck it over anything in unpredictable weather while cutting quite the dash.
Shop the trend:
The perfect silhouette.
An investment well worth making.
3. Black Tall Boots
Style Notes: You needn't reach for the rubberised, track-sole, waterproof knee boots just yet, instead, opt for classic black sleek tall boots that'll go with all your new season wares.
Shop the trend:
So sleek.
Love the nod to the Western trend.
4. Leather Separates
Style Notes: How can you add edge to your transeasonal looks? With a touch of leather. Whether it's a pencil skirt or a coat, nothing screams Londoner attire like this edgy fabrication.
Shop the trend:
A dreamy cover-up to wear all season.
Imagine this with a chunky knit and tall boots.
5. Chain Jewellery
Style Notes: There's no easier way to add power to your look than with a statement piece of jewellery. And the look that just keeps on gaining traction? Big, chunky chain necklaces and bracelets.
Shop the trend:
The perfect addition to any white tee.
Love the mixed metals on this one.
6. Cross-Body Handbags
Style Notes: If you're after a new handbag, go hands-free and loop a cross-body over your shoulder. We're particularly fond of the slouchy banana-shaped iterations.
Shop the trend:
A bag that covers all the bases, regardless of the season.
This brown textured bag could easily be mistaken as designer.
7. Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: This year, wide-leg trousers continue to be all the rage. They're comfortable and chic in equal amounts, so it's easy to understand why. Make like Marianne and wear yours with a knitted tank (coming right up) for perhaps the most 2024 autumn ensemble.
Shop the trend:
A wool-blend will serve you well for the rest of the year.
All-neutral ensembles never fail to look chic, no matter the season.
8. Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: Queen of the slip skirt (we all remember that Topshop 2018 style), Monikh proves the skirt style has staying power. For 2024, though, it's all about to-the-floor styles most likely worn with ballet flats or Mary Janes.
Shop the trend:
So chic with the matching shirt.
This is crying out to be styled with sleek pointed-toe boots.
9. Suede Jacket
Style Notes: The Whistles suede jacket sold out last year and now there are suede coats, blazers and cropped jackets everywhere. A favourite to throw on as a light layer when it isn't quite time to wear a winter coat, expect to see these at every brunch spot and dinner location around London. Rachael has already been wearing hers.
Shop the trend:
Look after it, and you'll wear it for decades.
This is bound to sell out so fast.
10. Knitted Dresses
Style Notes: The ripple effects of the Y2K aesthetic cement tube dresses as the need-to-know (and own) dress style right now. Look for knitted fabrications that’ll carry you through the colder months.
Shop the trend:
Love it worn belted (as seen here).
A great affordable option.
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