In the last few years, and this one in particular, it has become more than apparent that what we want from our wardrobes has changed slightly. Most would argue for the better in that we seem to be moving away from fleeting trends and toward pieces that carry longevity—purchases we can enjoy wearing time and again.
With ultra-luxe designers like Bottega Veneta and The Row unable to keep camel coats and crisp white shirts in stock, it’s clear the demand is there for quality investment pieces that elevate our wardrobes. For the average person, however, finding that sweet spot of quality, design and affordable price tag can long be searched for. Although those tickboxes are often associated with the luxury market, it is possible to find premium, long-lasting pieces on the high street—you just have to know where to look.
That’s where we come in. One of our favourite places to find such things is French Connection. Its new winter collection is full of sleek staples that look way beyond their high street price tags. There’s standout knitwear, including chic-but-cosy knitted dresses; outerwear that’s topping all of our new season wish lists; and luxe leather (as well as faux) pieces to rival the greats.
Anyone can do basics, but French Connection goes one step further, adding those trend-led details that make the simplest of pieces stand out from the crowd: the dark-chocolate trench in luxe croc PU leather, the collared knits, and an oversize lapel on a wool coat, for example. All of which you’re no doubt about to see flooding your Instagram feeds as they've already been picked up by owners of some of the most-sought-after wardrobe out there. Plus, they’ve indulged our 2020 needs, creating a luxe leisurewear edit we can actually wear to the shops as well as on our sofas.
Although often underestimated, French Connection is well and truly on the fashion insider’s radar for this autumn/winter. Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best pieces from the brand’s extensive new drop (we hope you have as much fun scrolling the new-in section as we just did) as well as the leisurewear we plan on wearing all winter.
Shop French Connection's New Drop:
This will make any jeans-and-knit combo look way more expensive.
Everybody needs a classic black blazer—the belt updates this one.
Great as part of the suit but also on their own with a slouchy knit and chunky boots.
The perfect smart winter coat. Need we say more?
The khaki green sets this leather midi apart from the rest.
Rusty brown and collared. You're spoiling us.
For those who have long been searching for the ultimate real-leather trousers, here they are.
The purple running through this '80s-style blazer is unexpected, but we love it.
Thanks to Monikh Dale, we can't get enough of longline cardigans this season.
A leather minidress has a place in most wardrobes. Pair with knee-high boots for dinner dates.
Such a classic—you'll have this forever.
Drool. We'll wear this now with chunky boots and a wool coat but add heels as soon as we're allowed out-out again.
A timeless investment that's not so much of an investment.
Layer over floral dresses to bring them into this season.
Fancy joggers are 2020's saviour. Bag these whilst you can.
So cosy for an autumnal walk with knee-high boots.
Knitted dresses are comfy but still feel elevated. What's not to like?
This classic crossbody will go with everything, and it's made from recycled leather. Win, win.
The perfect knit for all those festive Zoom drinks we're set to have.
French Connection is encouraging us to "stay in" and "dress up" this party season. This sequin co-ord is the perfect comfy-yet-fun look for it.
Pair with the matching sequin blouse above or even your favourite knit. Either way, wearing these will be a sure-fire pick-me-up.
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