5 minute read
Sweater Weather: Your Autumn Wardrobe
SWEATER WEATHER
One of my absolute favourite times of the entire year is approaching fast yet again. After a long and sticky summer, October is the much-needed gift that keeps on giving; a few gorgeous beach days here and there, stunning sunsets, and all-around chillier weather, which means we can start switching up our outfits and finally dip into our autumn wardrobes.
BY JULIA COELHO
The Autumn/Winter runway shows appeared on the fashion scene just before lockdown restrictions were implemented throughout Europe. Since that time, the fashion industry as a whole has experienced a real upheaval; one that was already brewing slowly but has only been further accelerated by the inevitable situation birthed from this historical and unique time we are living in. The word ‘trend’ is fast becoming a rude word in sartorial circles. Thanks to a heightened focus on sustainability, the desire to reduce waste, and an increased emphasis on pieces that truly stand the test of time, seasons are gradually becoming obsolete. It seems as though our insatiable need for newness, and with it, immediacy, is finally waning. We just need to take a look at the boom in second-hand and resale markets to really get a glimpse of the shift we are undergoing as a society. For any fellow fashion lovers out there, this doesn’t mean that trends are officially out the window, but I think it’s more about being conscious to avoid those that will have a palpably
short shelf life and instead focus on longevity, wearability and utility; concepts that transcend season and fads.
With all of that said, this year is no less exciting than those gone by. From cosy knits and edgy
RIGHT: AMBER LACE UP LEATHER BOOTS IN BLACK, WHISTLES, £185.00
boots to streamlined tailoring, there's a great deal to love on the high street this season; and most of it can surely be found already in your wardrobes, or in second-hand shops. Versatility is the buzzword on all of our lips, and with our lives inevitably becoming increasingly centred around comfort and practicality, I think we can safely say that we are very much on board.
BOOTS
Ah, music to my ears! If there's one thing I obsess over the most during the autumn months, it would have to be my beloved combat boots. It’s an evergrowing collection, for sure, but these days I find that I prefer buying one really good quality pair, and wearing them to death with pretty much everything, until they're literally falling apart at the soles. Chunky iterations
such as lace-up Doc Martens are my personal go-to, but pared-back Chelsea and sock boots, as well as square toes and over-the-knee styles, are all the rage this year too.
CARDIGANS
Never underestimate the transformative power of a statement knit. It's a principle that is sure to become increasingly relevant as we enter our first autumn within the context of social distancing, and jumpers take the place of crop tops as our main source of inspiration and creativity. I’ve already touched upon the newfound popularity of second-hand shopping, not only due to its positive impact on the environment, but also for its ability to create unique looks that no other person can replicate. You can find pretty much anything in secondhand shops, but knit cardigans are definitely a category that you’ll find in great abundance. This
LEFT: PALLASHOCK CHUNKY FLAT ANKLE BOOTS IN OFF WHITE, PALLADIUM, £85.00
TOP: EMBROIDERED CARDIGAN IN ECRU, STRADIVARIUS, £25.99
BOTTOM: CROPPED BUTTON UP KNIT SWEATER, & OTHER STORIES, £85
TOP: KNITTED VEST IN CAMEL, Y.A.S, £35.00
MIDDLE: DOUBLE LAYER TRENCH, TOPSHOP BOUTIQUE, £195.00
BOTTOM: KNITTED VEST IN GREEN, Y.A.S, £35.00
one is really about finding whatever puts a smile on your face, be it a crazy pop of colour, or a retro feature like a statement collar (which also happens to be very in this year).
KNITTED VESTS
Still on the topic of knitwear, knitted vests are about as close as we’re getting to a ‘microtrend’ this year, but this one is arguable one of my favourites, not to mention my new layering hero. Layered over a white shirt or ribbed polo neck, there’s something effortlessly cool and nostalgic about these. While in previous years, coats were the hero items of the colder months,
it feels as though the limitations on travel and general prolonged outdoor activity may very well mean that what lies beneath will become the star of the show this year.
It seems our insatiable need for newness is finally waning.
TAILORED COATS
Chic floor-sweeping coats (often with the addition of a waistbelt) are definitely going to be a vibe in the next couple of months. Flattering, timeless, and versatile, this year’s picks range from the classic camel coat to sleek duster jackets and trench coats; all perfectly tailored and exuding elegance, and most importantly featuring unique colourways.
ANYTHING BUT SKINNY JEANS
This year, a huge number of designers have reintroduced flared jeans into their collections as the next must-have denim choice. Classic, yet modern and effortlessly
Flattering, timeless, and versatile.
cool, they are definitely out of my comfort zone, but undoubtedly super easy to style and give any outfit that extra edge. Elevate a simple pair with a chunky cardigan and classic white ankle boots or even a long duster coat and ribbed turtleneck.
LEATHER SEPARATES
Faux-leather separates make for the perfect autumn and winter additions. From midi skirts and vests, to the classic moto jacket and longline belted coats, there are endless options to choose from. Try adding one statement piece to your winter wardrobe to give your look that extra level of chic, or if you're feeling brave, go for leather on leather.
TOP: LEATHER LOOK SUIT IN BLUSH, ASOS DESIGN, £75.00
LEFT: FLARED JEANS, MANGO, £35.99
RIGHT: LEATHER LOOK BUTTON THROUGH MINI SHIRT DRESS WITH BELT IN STONE, ASOS DESIGN, £35.00
