I Asked Some of the Most Influential Women in Fashion What They Dream of Buying

One of the most influential roles in fashion has to be a fashion buyer, as these are the ones who decide what makes it onto the shop floor (or virtual shop floor), influence which brands will be rising stars for the year and decide the items and trends that we collectively think are really worth investing in. Who better then to turn to for a shopping list for autumn winter 2020, then fashion buyers? They first saw these collections back in February before lockdown restrictions were put in place across Europe, and how we get dressed and what we look for in clothes has seen a note-able shift.
I asked buyers from Net-a-Porter, Matchesfashion, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Brownsfashion to share the eight items they personally would dream of buying from the autumn winter 2020 collections. Of course the words 'working from home' and 'comfort' will appear again and again as you scroll through their wishlists, as many gravitated towards comfortable knitwear, practical coats and shoes that can double as slippers. There are also some show pieces in there too however that are selected for a life after lockdown, with beautiful gowns, luxury handbags and jewellery that fall into the 'dream buy' category.
Keep scrolling to see the items these fashion buyers and insiders have on their personal shopping lists this autumn winter.
Natalie Kingham, Fashion and Buying Director at MATCHESFASHION
"Part of our Innovators Programme this year, Ex-Central St Martins alumni Chopova Lowena’s sporty aesthetic and use of Bulgarian fabrications is very avant-garde and versatile. This upcycled dress is one of my key pieces for the season, the use of recycled cotton and linen mixed with beautiful embroidery and studs perfectly demonstrate their expertise in construction and sustainable practices."
"This suiting capsule created exclusively for MATCHESFASHION perfectly represents McQueen’s iconic style offering exquisitely cut, special pieces which are very easy to wear. This suit will be a great investment and something that I will keep and wear for years to come, together or as separates.”
"Special, heirloom jewellery that you can cherish forever and then pass down to a loved one is a great investment. I love the chunky Lauren Rubinski chains, something that before I may have saved for a special occasion I now wear to instantly elevate an everyday look such as a white shirt or cashmere jumper.”
"Spending more time on Zoom over the past few months I’ve been drawn to beautifully cut and interesting tops that are versatile and comfortable. This oversized linen shirt from one of our Innovators, Art School, feels effortless and the lightweight fabric means it can be worn in the warmer months too.”
Libby Page, Senior Market Editor at NET-A-PORTER
"Chain detailing has been the must-have update to shoes via ankle straps, bags with chunky chain straps courtesy of Bottega and even dresses this Fall. JW Anderson’s chic sleeveless dress with chain belting is timeless. I’ll be wearing mine with a thin ribbed turtleneck underneath."
"Working from home has made me consider my purchases more with a bigger focus on investment and timeless styles. This Cartier watch is a signature from the brand that was introduced years ago therefore it’s guaranteed that I’ll still love this in years to come!"
"The knit dress is autumn's most-lusted after piece. Its versatility and comfort means it’s suitable for all occasions—given the current climate. The open back detail on this means its perfect for when evening dressing returns, I’ll throw an oversized sweater over the top for a more casual attitude. An added bonus being that it was designed by the incredibly talent Christopher Esber who is a master in subtle cut-out details that surprise and delight."
"In keeping with the chain theme, a classic gold chain necklace is top of my wishlist. Loren’s sustainable approach means this ever-lasting piece was also made with care and a conscience. Two things front of my mind and our customers when shopping right now."
"Sneakers are usually a practical shoe that I buy once or twice a year but for autumn they are the shoe of the season. Clean minimal styles that can also feel elevated and worn with suits when we return to work will be my go-to. I hope to buy these styles from The Row in all 3 colours. They’re the perfect non-sneaker sneaker…"
"For someone whose go-to look is head to toe neutrals, I don’t own a tan bag and have been meaning to fix this gap in my wardrobe for so long. The softness of the Flamenco pouch is so desirable and fits right in with my more relaxed approach to dressing. Just grab and go!
Laura Rowan, Womenswear Buying Manager at Harvey Nichols
Heather Gramston, Head of Womenswear at Browns Fashion
"I love the contrast between the classic shirt dress shape and the sheer fabric which reminds me of latex and is a nod to the fashion fetish trend this season."
"These are completely biodegradable and are a long overdue chic update to a rubber boot."
"You can’t go wrong with Jil Sander and this puff sleeve mohair sweater ticks all the right boxes."
"This is the perfect tailored jacket with a nipped in waist for video calls during virtual appointments and is a great addition to add with a pair of jeans and boots."
"These Wardrobe.NYC leggings with an ankle zip have formed the basis of my WFH wardrobe and they’re part of the exclusive capsule the brand created for us for AW20."
"This is a wardrobe essential of mine. I already own it in black and will be investing in the beige tan colourway for AW20."
"Over-the-knee boots were seen everywhere for AW20 and these Prada patent over-the-knee boots are undoubtably the square toe of the season while the midi heel is an added bonus."
"I am a big fan of this neon shade that we’ve seen everywhere for AW20 and expect this colourway to continue into next season."
Lydia King, Fashion Director at Harrods
Next up, see our guide to the key trends for autumn winter 2020.

Emma is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years experience in industry, having worked at The Telegraph, Grazia and, most recently, British Vogue. Emma was part of the founding team of Who What Wear UK, where she worked for six years as Deputy Editor and then Editor—helping shape the team into what it is today is one of the biggest privileges of her career and she will always see herself as a Who What Wear girl, contributing to both the US and UK sites. Whether she's writing about runway trends or spotlighting emerging brands, she aims to write about fashion in a way that is democratic and doesn't promote over consumption.
-
All the Chicest Mother's Day Gift Ideas Every Mom Will Cherish
From pretty perfume to suede sneakers.
-
My Word of 2025 Is "Sophisticated," and These 34 Pieces Are the Definition
Think structured bags, hourglass shapes, and classic tailoring.
-
Treating Yourself? What to Buy From the New Designer Collections Before They Sell Out
I'm kind of a pro at this.
-
I'm Refining My Wardrobe—36 Staples I'm Eyeing for 2025
Polished is the word.
-
Prepare Your Wallet: 10 Jewelry Brands Running Deep Discounts for Cyber Monday
Snag that tennis bracelet for 40% off.
-
Chanel's Loafers Are the Ultimate Luxury—Here's Why the Fashion Set Think They're Worth It
The dream.
-
The Stunning Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry That's Worth the Investment
Shine bright like a diamond.
-
We're Fashion Editors—the 9 Best Items From The Row That Are Truly Worth the Investment
They'll never date.