Forget a head-to-toe overhaul. The chicest looks combine timeless personal style with one or two current elements, according to the Guardian's styling editor, Melanie Wilkinson. A formula of 90% personal style and 10% zeitgeist is key, as being head-to-toe in new trends can look overeager, while a completely classic look may feel safe.
The sweet spot is clothes that radiate personality and confidence with a little something extra that signals awareness of the current moment. Most of your new autumn look can remain simple, requiring just one or two updates, such as swapping loafers for lace-ups, choosing a more fitted blazer, or trying different glasses. Even a coloured sock or a string of beads added to a necklace stack can make a difference, and some updates, like a low ponytail replacing the slicked-back bun, require no shopping at all.
Key Garments and Accessories for the Season
A funnel-collar jacket with a formal twist is set to become as ubiquitous as the quilted jacket was in 2025. These technical-looking jackets pair well with slimline black trousers and kitten heels to offset their sportiness. For evenings, a barely-there silky blouse is perfect for when you want to wear jeans and a nice top, with options like the Anthropologie satin blouse at £98.
The collar is the centre of attention this season, with layering and pops of colour recommended, such as a red rollneck under a blue shirt under a navy jumper. Cool pyjamas in jewel colours, like the Chelsea Peers stripe set at £58, offer a comfortable alternative to long-sleeved sets. Embracing the high-low mix, such as a parka with a slip dress or a smart wool coat with tracksuit bottoms, can look best in real life even if it sounds wrong on paper.
Footwear, Knitwear, and Trousers to Try
Lace-ups are tipped as the new loafer, with derby shoes being a great choice if a brogue feels too formal. They are chunkier and provide more room between the sole and trouser bottom, which is useful in the rain. For those easing back into heels, a ballet-style block heel is a good starting point, like the H&M slingback heels at £27.99. Western boots and go-anywhere boots from Anonymous Copenhagen at £245 are also highlighted for their versatility with dresses, wide-leg trousers, and denim.
In knitwear, a chunky cardigan from Finisterre, made of 100% fine merino wool, offers breathability for changeable temperatures. Sky-blue knitwear, such as the Cos cashmere jumper at £249, adds a fresh shade that works with neutrals. A cream sweatshirt from Jigsaw at £139 blends the comfort of a sweatshirt with the polish of a chunky knit. Barrel-leg leather trousers from M&S at £36 are presented as a more casual, easier-to-wear option than traditional leather trousers, and the 1990s jean from With Nothing Underneath at £150 hits the ankle at the right place for flat shoes.
Finishing Touches and Styling Ideas
Accessories play a key role in updating a look. Chunky hoops with a red and gold two-tone effect glimmer under candlelight, and chunky red socks from Aries at £19 add impact to trainers and clogs. A clip-on AirPods pouch from Anya Hindmarch at £95 attaches to a bag strap for convenience. The modern brooch, championed by designers like Giorgio Armani and Tory Burch, gets a sculptural update with a pebble-shape version from Urban Outfitters at £12. Mixing gold and silver jewellery is encouraged, breaking the outdated rule to pick a side, with options like the gold and silver bangle from Astley Clarke at £295.
Colour blocking, following the lead of Mugler and Marc Jacobs, involves styling bold, bright colours together, such as a purple skirt with a pink top. Wearing purple is highlighted as a key colour, paired with blacks and browns or clashed with red and yellow. Rolling up coat cuffs to show off a shirt or long-sleeved dress underneath adds an extra point of interest. Other updates include a prom-style corsage pinned to a blazer, a rope necklace inspired by Celine, and a silk scarf knotted neatly around a ponytail.
