I Love Summer but I Can't Wait to Recreate These 6 Easy Autumn Outfits
Until last year I never considered myself much of an autumnal dresser. My style has always leant towards windswept dresses that are apt for balmy temperatures. As I approach my mid-thirties, I’m embracing styles that caress, in rich tones that feel characteristically autumn. Considering the forecast we’ve been granted thus far, I’ve been thrust into the realm of autumn dressing prematurely. I have to admit, it’s inspired me, especially when revisiting some of my favourite A/W shows from February. Last week’s Copenhagen Fashion Week saw temperatures drop and attendees donning windswept umbrellas and clad in elongated lengths. Although it was a far cry from last year’s summery styles, it presented us with a smorgasbord of deep hues, textures and juxtaposed fabrications — signalling the start of transitional dressing.
There are many transitional pieces I’ve adopted as part of my uniform and both summer and autumn looks can be built with and around them. White full skirts, for example (which happens to be a trending piece this year). The bright wash and airy voile compliments fuzzy knitwear beautifully. The same goes for accessories. If you’re enjoying basket bags this season, consider investing in a leather patina you can wear with sundresses or trench coats and blazers.
The key to dressing for transitional seasons is layers that you can either pile up or shed. Take Sylvie’s look — the svelte and flesh-baring elements of a silken dress are appropriate for warm weather, but pop a trench coat over the top and it instantly transforms into an autumn-appropriate outfit. When it rains, swap open-toe shoes for heeled boots. Or, Marina’s look. A boxy leather jacket will serve you well in neither here nor there weather conditions and sunglasses lend the look an intentionality.
Scroll down to see and shop the easy autumn outfits I have in my back pocket for the transitional seasons and beyond.
1. Slip Dress + Trench Coat
Style Notes: Make like Sylvie and play on lengths to make the most out of your summer wardrobe. You can wear this outfit well into autumn with closed-toe shoes and hosiery.
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2. Boxy Leather Jacket + Mid-Wash Jeans
Style Notes: The smartened leather jacket isn't going anywhere for autumn. I plan on taking notes from Marisa and styling mine with straight-fit indigo denim and a crew neck t-shirt.
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3. Floral Blouse + Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Tanice makes a good case for transitioning the floral adornment into autumn. We may have moved onto feathers but I'm a floral girl at heart, so this style is for life. Look for sleeved styles to adapt to the weather.
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4. Cashmere Knit + White Jeans + Trench
Style Notes: Bright denim is a guaranteed way to warm up any look. Tie the look together with a transitional knit, loafers and a relaxed trench. I plan on taking my fashion cues from Brittany and adding a silk scarf.
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A smartened jeans look, courtesy of Finery London.
5. Lightweight Cardigan + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Embrace knitwear early and style light knits with free-flowing tailored trousers. It's modern suiting at its finest. Add a trench coat for added warmth.
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6. Full Skirt + Blazer
Style Notes: You don't have to retire your cotton skirts when the seasons change. Instead, pair voluminous skirts with layers and throw-on outerwear.
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Up Next: The Autumn 2023 Shopping Guide: Where to Buy This Year's Season-Defining Trends
Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications,Best Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK and Stylist.
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