There is an almost imperceptible change in the air that signals the shift into a new season. The days get a little cooler, the evenings become a little darker, and before the leaves have even fallen off the trees, we're in the midst of "pumpkin spice season." But until the calendar reaches the end of September (the official start of autumn), we're in that tricky time when the temperatures undergo drastic shifts, and in turn, so do our wardrobes. This transitional in-between period calls for some particularly smart shopping, and the pre-fall collections offer the perfect mix of layering pieces and investment buys. Thankfully, you can now shop them at NET-A-PORTER faster than you can say "add to basket."
In reality, all your wardrobe needs is handful of well chosen buys to ready you for the season ahead. Unsure of which miracle pieces to look for? We've narrowed them down to five items that will both bring your look right up to date and stand the test of time. So if you're ready to trade in your bikini for some knee-high boots or your flip-flops for fine knits, keep scrolling for the autumnal must-haves to add to your wardrobe just in time for the cosy period.
1. TRANSITIONAL TOPS
Sure, they look good on their own, but you can layer these tops in myriad ways: under blazers, over dresses, tucked into high-waisted trousers or with a waistcoat or an open shirt. They've got you covered whatever the weather. Long-sleeved styles or knitted fabrications will serve you all the way through autumn/winter 2022.
Use a bold turtleneck as the framework for the rest of your outfit. Just add a slip dress, a blazer and knee-high boots.
This clever top has already done the layering for you.
You don't get better autumnal colours than these.
A versatile, black turtleneck will go with everything you own. Also, a bodysuit will provide you with extra warmth.
This is not your average sweater. The sweetheart neckline and nipped waist create a figure-hugging silhouette that we know is going to be everywhere this season.
2. SEASONAL SKIRTS AND TROUSERS
After months of wearing floaty dresses, you might be ready for something a little more substantial. Tailoring and thicker fabrics are back on the agenda, and we're all about texture. Pair a glossy leather midi with a knit top, or add a silky camisole to those wide-leg wool trousers.
Leather never goes out of style. Until winter, opt for leather in creams, browns and reds to achieve a softer aesthetic than you typically get with black leather.
It's official: Polka dots are back (and bigger than ever).
Pinstripes might mean business, but you can make them more casual by pairing them with a chunky knit and trainers.
We might live in jeans when the weekend rolls around, but during the week, it's all about a tailored wide-leg trouser.
3. CLASSIC COATS
Coats should be a timeless purchase that you intend to last a lifetime. If you haven't found "the one" (aka the coat you find just about any excuse to wear), consider us your matchmakers. We've found four that will go with everything in your wardrobe.
A trench-meets-wool coat that combines two classic outerwear aesthetics in one.
The only piece you need to make any outfit look instantly more polished.
Statement dressers, this is the coat for you. The leather, colours, and maxi length make this a coat you can't ignore.
Tactile fabrics like suede come into their own in autumn, and this jacket is ideal to wear before transitioning to your heavy winter coat.
4. PRE-FALL FOOTWEAR
Summer sandals are all well and good, but we've been counting down the days until we can get back to wearing comfortable shoes again. Comfort, however, doesn't have to mean compromising on style. Between loafers, boots and trending trainers, it's impossible to choose between the chicest shoes of the season.
Celebrity-approved and a fashion-editor favourite, the loafer is a strong year-rounder.
Converse high-tops, Veja leather-trimmed V10s, Adidas Stan Smiths... Everyone has a trainer tribe they're faithful to, but this fashionable collaboration might just turn your head.
Elevate a classic Chelsea boot with an unexpected pop of colour.
Buttery leather in clean cream. There's nothing not to love about this minimalistic boot.
Is there anything more exciting than the first knee-high boots of the season? Pair with the floaty midi dresses you wore all summer, and finish with a tailored jacket.
5. BEST NEW BAGS
Back-to-school means going back to the office, but there is something that can beat the post-holiday blues: treating yourself to a little arm candy that you'll wear from your desk to dinner.
The perfect desk-side tote. It's big enough to hold all of your essentials (plus a laptop).
Play with colour and texture by pairing this slouchy suede shoulder bag with a velvet jacket and leather trousers for an expensive-looking combination.
Something tells us the Hourglass has all the hallmarks of becoming the next It bag.
This deceptively roomy shoulder bag will add a little colour to your day.
The Puzzle Bag has already reached icon status, so we keep an eye out every time a new colourway is released.
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