With autumn less than a month away and the temperatures starting to drop here in the UK, my hunt for the most polished autumn wardrobe staples has officially begun. And although I like to dip my toes into trends to add some interest to my outfits every so often, the truth is that I’m a classic dresser to my core. To me, it’s all well and good to hop on the latest fad, but the most elegant, put-together wardrobes always have a foundation of timeless basics you can rely on year after year. Think of the type of classic pieces that can be dressed up and down with ease, can be mixed and matched to create a wide range of outfits, and, most importantly, will never look dated or out of style.

And so, with the new season fast approaching, I decided to go on the hunt for the classic pieces that will make up the basis of my autumn capsule wardrobe. From luxury investments that are sure to stand the test of time to affordable staples that look way more expensive than their high-street price tag, I spent hours scouring the web as well as the Instagram pages of the most elegant dressers I know to find the classic pieces that can be relied upon year after year.

And the best part? I’ve rounded them up for you below. From polished outerwear to refined accessories, keep scrolling to shop the classic pieces I’m planning to add to my wardrobe for autumn 2026 (and beyond).

Classic Pieces to Buy This Autumn 2026

1. Outerwear

2. Knitwear

3. Bottoms

4. Shoes

5. Dresses

6. Bags

7. Tops

Whether you’re still holding out hope for another heatwave, or ready to cosy up with your first hot coffee in months, we're all starting to think about our autumn wardrobes. Despite a few brighter days that may arise, it's clear that we're moving into the cooler months, and now is the time to ready our wardrobes for the switchover. Whilst it may take a few weeks for the new trends of the season to fully take hold, we can at least get our foundations in order. September may have only just begun, but already my best friend messaged me to ask for help building her autumn wardrobe. These are the 9 elegant basics I sent straight back.

After the past few months, I've become accustomed to throwing on a floaty summer dress, slipping into sandals and heading out the door in just a few minutes. This ease of dressing is something I want to hold on to as I transition my wardrobe into the cooler months, and with a few great basics at hand, the shift will be seamless. My staple tailored shorts can be swiftly exchanged for a pair of equally smart trousers. Easy tank tops and T-shirts now come accompanied by a soft knit as layering returns to the fore. And now, my colour palette has updated, inviting richer shades of burgundy, khaki and cream to take over from the sunny shades of summer.

Each of these autumn basics has been selected for its versatility. The pieces can serve as a backdrop to let your more trend-led addition truly shine; think classic jeans paired with a standout top. Or, the edit works as its own capsule wardrobe, ready to be paired together for understated minimalist looks that look exceedingly chic. As the new collections have officially rolled in, I've brought together a series of affordable high-street standouts, as well as a few investment buys if you're ready to invest. Scroll on to explore the best autumn basics that will make your (or your best friend's) new-season wardrobe that much more elegant.

Shop the 9 Best Autumn Basics

1. The Light Jacket

Style Notes: The first big shift from my summer wardrobe into autumn is the return of a light jacket. It's not quite time for a heavy coat, but a light windbreaker or cotton style can be thrown on for those cooler moments. As the outermost layer of my outfits I'm looking to refined details to be both practical and chic, from exciting shades to sleek funnel-neck designs.

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2. The Long Sleeve Top

Style Notes: Simple yet so effective. Over the past few seasons we've watched as stylish people have celebrated the simple long-sleeved top, relying on its pared-back appeal to let their necklace stacks or skirt pairings truly shine.

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3. The Classic Jeans

Style Notes: As a denim devotee, my jeans are one of the most hardworking pieces in my wardrobe. Whether you prefer a straight cut, a loose wide-leg or want a more contemporary barrel style, so many great autumn outfits call upon denim.

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4. The Staple Loafers

Style Notes: The ease of sandals will definitely be missed, but a great pair of loafers is primed to take over. This chic shoe can be styled with denim, tailoring, capri pants and plenty more, and comes back every single year regardless of the trend cycle.

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5. The Soft Knit

Style Notes: After months of sweltering heat, I'm so ready to bundle up in a soft knit. For now, you may only need this to tackle cooler mornings and evenings, but simply throw over your shoulders or tie around your waist when you don't need it. Classic black is always a reliable option, but even as a minimalist, I often lean into more joyful shades in knitwear to let it be the standout.

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6. The Trusty Trench Coat

Style Notes: The first autumn showers have arrived, and if your weather app shows a hint of rain, it's time to grab your trusty trench coat. For us Brits, most seasons demand we have one to hand, and whilst a windbreaker can do the job, the refined design of a trench coat means you'll layer it over your casual looks as well as your smart evening outfits.

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7. The Smart Trousers

Style Notes: As someone who loves trousers and jeans, I'm excited to welcome back my tailoring. If you're yet to add a pair of smart trousers into your wardrobe, you may be surprised at how hard-working they can be. Bringing a sophisticated edge, this item will work in your off-duty and office looks.

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8. The Satin Accents

Style Notes: From tops to trousers, I often find myself relying on satin or silk pieces in the cooler months to bring a polished finish and a contrast in texture. For the past few years, satin tops have been my go-to when dressing for evening, paired simply with jeans, and on casual days when I want a touch of refinement, my slouchy knit is paired with sleek satin trousers.

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9. The Spacious Leather Tote

Style Notes: The spacious tote is a year-round staple. Over the past few months, I've found myself reaching for my raffia styles to fully embrace the summer mood, but now its time to return to supple leather styles as the weather turns.

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We're at that point in the year when many of us are refining our capsule wardrobes, and personally, I'm pretty proud of mine. Over the years, I've hand-selected pieces to serve as the foundation of my elegant wardrobe, putting each addition through a series of tests before it officially claims its spot. Now, my line-up is almost complete, and if you took a peek at my collection, you'd notice that the majority of my staples come from Reformation. And if you're wondering which Reformation staples are worth it, these are the tried-and-tested pieces I swear by.

Bringing together classic designs, trending details and high-quality fabrics, Reformation is able to balance timeless and trending in equal measure. Think the application of a modern neckline to a timeless knit, or a loose silhouette to staple trousers, and Reformation knows that a small adjustment can make a big impact. Whilst the brand is known for the beautiful dresses consistently spotted throughout the warmer months and at every wedding we attend, Reformation excels in every single category. Trust me, I've tried it all.

Throughout the year, jeans are always a feature of my capsule wardrobe, and Reformation's lineup has seriously impressed me. For loose styles, look to the Cary, or if you prefer a straighter fit, you'll want to consider the beloved Cynthia jeans, which also come in petite lengths if you're on the shorter side like me. Whilst the jeans-and-a-nice-top duo is renowned, finding that nice top can often feel like the tricky part, but Reformation's styles always look the part. The Dusk Knit, a simple tank with a sleek high neckline, is a frequent part of my workwear and weekend outfits, and the Avery Knit Top is my go-to for evening.

Of course, I have to mention the Mason Pants, a staple in so many editors' and fashion people's wardrobes. The cut, the fit and the feel of the fabric have cemented these as my favourite tailored trousers, and they also come in shorter lengths (at 5'2", I opt for the petite version). Whilst I'd never wish away the summer sun, I am quietly excited to pull out my soft Reformation knits, from the reliable Clara cardigan to the sumptuous Cove jumper; both have seen me through the past few winters with ease. They're the kind of investment piece that you find yourself reaching for every crisp winter morning, and suddenly can't remember what you wore before.

Alongside, there are a few accessories that can hold their own against moving trends. The Blaine ballet flats joined my wardrobe at the start of summer, and have been the comfortable and chic companion to my dresses, tailored shorts and loose denim all season long. Together, these pieces make up a refined capsule wardrobe, though just one can bring an instant hit of timeless polish to your outfit builds. Scroll on to explore the best Reformation capsule wardrobe staples from an editor who personally tested them.

Shop the Worthwhile Reformation Capsule Staples for 2026

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After months of being limited to my basic tank and linen trousers to keep myself cool throughout the endless UK heatwave, the drop in temperature has finally presented me with an opportunity for a wardrobe refresh. And I'm not trying to brag, but I get a lot of compliments on my autumnal outfits. To me, there's just an easy elegance that comes with cold-weather dressing, and of course, as someone who works in fashion, I'm constantly being asked for advice on how to build the perfect capsule wardrobe.

Most recently? My best friend wanted me to help her curate a capsule that was versatile, easy to wear and most importantly, timeless enough to last for many years to come. And after a quick search online, I was able to create her an easy but chic autumn wardrobe that's sure to stand the test of time.

But the best part? I've compiled the exact list I curated for her below—shopping links and all! So if you, too, need a seasonal wardrobe refresh, keep scrolling to discover my nine-piece autumn capsule wardrobe for 2026 (and way beyond).

I Just Built an Elegant Autumn Capsule With These 9 Staples

1. Lightweight Jacket

Style notes: It sounds crazy to wish the UK summer away, but I have to admit I'm very excited for jacket season, when I can use my outerwear as the focal point of my outfits. But before I pull out my heavy wool coats, I'll be opting for lightweight iterations like the cropped trench above.

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2. Long-Sleeve Blouse

Style notes: An easy way to dress up jeans, skirts, or leggings, a long-sleeve blouse will serve you well this season. Whether I'm heading to the office or dinner out with friends, I'll be pulling out this elegant staple on repeat this season.

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3. Dark-Wash Jeans

Style notes: I've been very grateful for my ecru denim this summer. But soon I'll be relying on darker blue and black washes that will pair well with my moodier cold-weather palette and look smart enough for the office this autumn.

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4. Knee-High Boots

Style notes: Boots season is almost upon us! And the first pair I'll be reaching for is some sleek knee-highs that practically create my outfit for me. Leather, suede or croc, I know I'm going to live in this footwear staple from now until next spring.

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5. Midi Dress

Style notes: On those autumn mornings, I don't know what to wear; a midi dress will never fail me. Not only does it look put-together with minimal effort, but it will also save me from those "what do I wear?!" panic sessions in the mornings.

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6. Suede Tote

Style notes: Goodbye, beach-ready raffia! Hello, supple suede! This buttery-soft fabric is synonymous with the autumn season, and I, for one, cannot wait to get my beige, tan and chocolate brown iterations out to add some texture and warmth to my outfits.

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7. Midi Skirt

Style notes: When jeans feel a little too casual, a midi skirt is always my go-to option. It’s flattering, polished, and the length sits well within my comfort zone as someone who very much considers themselves a pared-back dresser.

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8. Cardigan

Style notes: Is there anything that feels cosier than knitwear? Not to me, and I'll be pulling out my classic cardigans as an extra layering piece as well as to wear as tops this season. Simple? Yes. But so very effective.

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9. Tailored Trouswrs

Style notes: After months spent in crinkly linen, the urge to pull out my tailored trousers is very strong. Not only do they act as a cold-weather alternative to the Bermuda shorts I wore to the office this summer, but they add an instant sense of polish to even the most casual of tops.

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After months of high temperatures, the first mild days have arrived, and we're in that perfect late summer moment. It's the in-between time of soaking up the last of the sunshine whilst offering a small pause before autumn truly breaks through. Over the past few months of living in throw-on pieces and wearing the bare minimum, autumn layering is calling to me, and more and more the vision of my autumn wardrobe is coming into focus.

Considering the saved images on my social feeds and pinned outfits, refined minimalism is what I'm craving after months of bold summer tones. Whilst The Row has a perfect uniform for this exact mood, I'm working with a slightly different budget, and three brands exude The Row energy with a friendlier price tag: COS, Toteme and Róhe.

Whether it's the Scandinavian flair or focus on minimalism, COS, Toteme and Róhe are proving to be the backbone of my autumn wardrobe for the clean lines, focus on form and grounded palettes which define them. Whilst bound by a similar essence of understated refinement, each brand has its standout moments. COS's sumptuous cashmere is trusted even by luxury shoppers, and its tailoring continues to set it apart from its high-street counterparts.

Toteme has long been the first port of call for classic dressers drawn to expertly draped silhouettes, precise tailoring and pieces designed to go the distance. In recent years, Amsterdam-based label Róhe has become a favourite of fashion insiders, blending enduring designs with contemporary accents. Bringing the best of the brand's offerings together, I've curated a refined autumn capsule wardrobe that covers soft knitwear, classic denim, light jackets, and slinky dresses, ready to be mixed and matched throughout the coming season and for many years to come.

Shop the 9 The Row-Inspired Autumn Buys On My Wish List

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I’m well aware that it might sound strange that I’m talking about autumn in the middle of what feels like our hundredth heatwave here in the UK, but anyone who has lived in or even just visited this country knows just how quickly the temperature can change. And although we’re all still enjoying our tank tops, linen trousers, and flip-flops for the time being, as we approach the end of August, the transitional season is not far off. And this can only mean that it’s time to start thinking about the elegant staples that will form the basis of my summer-to-autumn transitional capsule wardrobe.

Now, when it comes to building a refined transitional capsule, it’s not about following every trend or fad. Rather, I’ve decided that for 2026, I'm all about simple yet elevated elegance—focusing on timeless, versatile basics that can be dressed down for casual days out and then taken seamlessly into mid-weather evenings with just a few easy wardrobe swaps. So after much careful thought and consideration, I’ve managed to direct my attention to the seven staples that will define my wardrobe this season. The kind of clothing that never feels overdone, no matter how many times you reach for it, and also remains so classic that it’s guaranteed to last in your transitional wardrobe for many years to come.

So if you, too, are planning to refresh your between-season capsule, then you’re in the right place. Keep scrolling to discover the seven polished staples making the foundations of my capsule wardrobe this transitional season.

7 Transitional Staples I'll Be Relying On Until Autumn

1. Lightweight Bomber Jacket

Style notes: Whether I’m throwing it over a tank top and tailored trousers for a day around the city or layering it over a blouse and satin midi skirt for an evening out, a lightweight bomber is a transitional must-have. I already own a classic-cut cream iteration like above, so I’m now on the hunt for a style with a slightly elevated twist. Think pretty scarf-detailing, chic high-necklines and dramatic puff sleeves.

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2. Relaxed Cotton Shirt

Style notes: A relaxed button-down shirt remains in my capsule regardless of the season, but as the temperature starts to drop, I’ll be swapping out my linen iterations for cotton styles that will pair well with jeans, skirts, and Bermuda shorts alike. It’s easy to throw on and will give you the “off-duty model” look we all know and love.

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3. Wide-Leg Jeans

Style notes: I packed away the majority of my denim at the beginning of summer, so when it gets too cold for my wide-leg linen trousers, I'll be bringing my jeans back out as a cosy but stylish option for the chillier transitional days. Whether you pair it with a chunky knit or sleek blouse, it's a casual but no less put-together pant style that you’ll rely on until spring 2027.

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4. V-neck Knit

Style notes:A V-neck knit will serve your wardrobe well in the weeks between summer and autumn. With enough coverage to keep you warm on those colder days, but with a neckline that provides a flattering and elongated silhouette, this jumper style can be dressed up or down with ease.

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5. Knee-Length Skirt

Style notes: I usually swear by a midi skirt, but recently, I’ve been very into the slightly shorter knee-length iterations that I’ve been spotting all over Instagram as well as my commute around London. Reminiscent of the office-siren aesthetic that dominated the mid to late ‘90s, it’s no surprise that this chic skirt style has found its way back into mainstream for 2026.

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6. Loafers

Style notes: Not sure what to wear when it’s too cold for sandals but still too warm for boots? A pair of sleek loafers will serve you well. Not only does this elegant footwear style work well in each and every season, but it brings a sense of polish to even the most casual of clothing, including shorts or jeans. But the best part? They look expensive at every price point, regardless of the finish, colour or style you opt for.

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7. Bowling Bag

Style notes: It’s almost time to start packing away my raffia totes and basket bags, and in their place? Buttery soft leather bowling bags that feel just as effortless as it does elegant. Whilst structured in silhouette, there's a real ease to this bag that makes it slightly softer and more wearable than other totes on the market.

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While we’re currently in the midst of another heatwave, I am under no illusion that it is here to stay, and autumn is slowly looming. We’re slowly starting to enter that transitional season, and deciding what to wear is about to get a whole lot harder. Finding outfits for a range of temperatures is key for me, but I don’t have a designer budget to match it. If there’s one brand I know I can rely on for capsule wardrobe staples that suit a wide range of occasions and give me that effortlessly chic finish, it’s Massimo Dutti.

Often referred to as Zara’s “older sister”, Massimo Dutti's collections take on a more refined approach. Known for its sleek, upscale tailoring, soft palettes and focus on silhouette and form, it focuses less on viral pieces and more on capsule hero buys that will last in your wardrobe for years to come. That's why you'll find this high street hero in so many great wardrobes across the globe.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve adopted a more thoughtful approach to shopping. New additions have to blend with my existing wardrobe and have an innate timelessness that ensures I'll return to the pieces every single year. I want pieces that feel current yet adaptable to new seasons, and ready to mix and match throughout the year. It's a big ask, but one that Massimo Dutti achieves with ease. The autumn collection consists of an array of soft suedes, luxe leathers, wardrobe staples and that statement suede trench coat to make a statement without being over the top. Consider this a ready-made capsule wardrobe, formed of smart, elegant buys that are sure to go the distance.

Scroll on to discover 9 autumn new-in pieces from Massimo Dutti that I’ve managed to whittle down to my favourites for the new season.

Massimo Dutti Autumn New-In Buys:

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If someone were to take a peek into my wardrobe, they'd find that one brand features more than most. Bringing together classic designs, trending details and quality fabrics, Reformation has long been one of my most frequented stores, whether that's in person or online. From the new in arrivals to the enduring core pieces, over the years the brand has done a lot of heavy lifting in curating my elegant capsule wardrobe. Recently, I've been counting down to the arrival of the summer sale, knowing from experience that it will be packed full of enduring pieces that I can instantly add into my summer rotations, or store away for a few weeks until autumn arrives. Finally, the Reformation sale is here, and 9 of my most relied-upon capsule wardrobe heroes are discounted right now.

As a shopping editor, I spend a lot of time trying on pieces in person. I like to get a feel for the fabrics, an idea of the fit, and over the past few years have spent a lot of my time in the Reformation changing rooms. Whilst the brand is known for the beautiful dresses consistently spotted throughout the summer months and at every wedding we attend, Reformation excels in every single category. Trust me, I've tried it all.

Heading into autumn, jeans are about to return as our most worn staple, and two of Reformation's best-selling styles are on sale right now. The Cary is a relaxed wide-leg style for those who prefer a looser fit, whilst the Cynthia is a classic straight-leg cut which returns every single season simply because they're just so good. Whilst it may not be time for our heavy knits right now, Reformation's cashmere collection is a best-selling category every single autumn and winter, with signature styles selling out every time the temperatures drop. Now, the most iconic styles, the Clara and the Jadey, are on sale. Trust me, your cold-weather wardrobe will thank you for these cosy cashmere additions.

Alongside these are sleek skirts, iconic dresses and notably the Bethany ballet flats, primed to ensure the shift out of sandals is as polished and comfortable as possible. As the best Reformation sales buys tend to move fast, scroll on to shop the 9 capsule wardrobe heroes worth shopping in the Reformation summer sale, and shop more sale buys that have caught my eye.

Shop the Best Reformation Sale Buys

1. Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

2. Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans

3. Dusk Knit Top

4. Balia Linen Dress

5. Jadey Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Sweater

6. Cynthia High Rise Straight Jeans

7. Eli Oversized Linen Shirt

8. Carolina Silk Skirt

9. Bethany Ballet Flat

Shop More Reformation Sale Buys We Adore

As much as I love the hot weather and dressing for the summer months, I must admit, I am so looking forward to reintroducing jeans and light knits into my wardrobe. Our favourite brands have started slowly trickling pre-fall collections into their stores with autumn on the horizon, and signs of the new season trends are starting to emerge. I, for one, headed straight to the new-in section of COS to gain inspiration for the season ahead.

We’re slowly heading into that tricky transitional phase of dressing where it’s not quite warm enough for big coats, but it’s too cold for floaty dresses. Now is the time when I start to get ahead and begin thinking about what my autumn wardrobe is going to look like – rather than waiting for late September and being taken off-guard. I want to feel prepared, so I’ve got a seamless wardrobe switch and outfit formulas already in place.

COS is my go-to high-street brand for capsule wardrobe staples. Their structured silhouettes, versatile basics and high-quality fabrics are a no-brainer for me. If there's one thing I love, it's the way in which the pieces can be seamlessly mixed and matched with my existing wardrobe, making curating outfits so much easier.

I’ve scoured the new-in section of COS and rounded up nine pieces I’ve got my eye on already to invest in for my early-autumn wardrobe.

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As a shopping editor with almost a decade of experience, I know that the swiftest wardrobe switchover comes between summer and autumn. Whilst we may be soaking up the latest heatwave right now, in the blink of an eye the cooler days will settle in, and for those who like to be prepared, it's time to start thinking about our transitional wardrobes.

After months of sky-high temperatures, the move into milder days may not sound that inviting, but personally I'm secretly excited for a little wardrobe reset. Of course, this doesn't mean a total overhaul of what we own. Our throw-on dresses still hold their place, now with a soft knit in tow. Shorts can be tucked away for another year as smart tailored trousers return to pride of place, and woven totes take over from our sandy basket bags. In fact, just a few capsule wardrobe staples can gently ease us into the new season, and to make the move from summer to autumn as easy as possible, I've curated a list of the best transitional basics.

Since the autumn/winter runways earlier this year, we already have an idea of the fresh wave of trends that are set to dominate the new season. Satin fabrics are about to return in force, fringing will bring a whimsical edge to sophisticated looks, and intricate detailing will push our understated looks to a whole new level. But for the new stylings to truly shine, the foundations of our wardrobes must be strong enough to support them, and that starts with a series of hard-working basics.

Below, I've highlighted the 7 best transitional basics which will comfortably ease your wardrobe out of summer and into the autumn months. Think a light jacket to throw over dresses, classic jeans to take over from your shorts and staple loafers primed to bring a polished edge when sandals are packed away for another year.

Shop the 7 Best Transitional Basics for 2026

1. The Light Jacket

Style Notes: Already, our favourite brands have begun to tease their autumn collections, and a series of great jackets have officially arrived. For the transitional period, lightweight styles will bridge the temperature gap, whether you're looking for a fluid trench or a bold collar jacket. Simply layer up with a knit when the cooler days roll in.

2. The Simple Long Sleeve Top

Style Notes: You may have noticed in recent months that the humble long-sleeved top has become a prominent feature in great wardrobes across the globe. Whether paired with textured skirts, simple jeans or striking tailoring, this foundation piece grounds our more contemporary pieces.

3. The Classic Jeans

Style Notes: Jeans feature in our capsule wardrobes all year round, and whilst we are set to see a series of trending styles arrive with the new season, the classics always hold their own. From straight-leg to relaxed loose and even barrel silhouettes, these cuts will be called upon for all occasions from workwear to date night.

4. The Staple Loafers

Style Notes: Before we launch into boot season, we can ease in with the staple loafer. If you're looking to finish your refined looks with a flat this season, consider the sophisticated appeal of a loafer.

5. The Soft Knit

Style Notes: Autumn layering will soon arrive, and the simplest way to keep your summer pieces on rotation is to throw a light knit into the mix. Tie around your waist now and shrug on for cooler evenings, or simply swap out your classic T-shirt for a soft cashmere version.

6. The Smart Trousers

Style Notes: I have to admit, I'm can't wait to be reunited with tailored trousers. Light linen versions have been a prominent feature in my summer wardrobe, and now I'm ready to ease into the new season with comfortable smart trousers.

7. The Spacious Tote

Style Notes: After months of toting around a straw bag, the back to school feel of autumn sees my handbag collection shift back to sturdy leather. With possibilities of damp days, my daily companion is being switched up from breathable raffia to smooth leather.