5 Autumn Outfit Staples That Work for Every Occasion

Autumn is here, the evenings are drawing in, the weather is unpredictable, and we’re all trying to stay cosy and warm without sacrificing our personal style. Fortunately, there are a few autumn wardrobe staples that can carry you from rainy school runs through to after-work drinks, all while staying warm and dry.

Investing in a handful of good-quality pieces like these means you can re-wear them time and time again, switching up your style by adding different accessories such as a stylish cross body bag. Here are 5 autumn staples that work for every occasion.

_{[Photo by cottonbro studio]}

5 Autumn Outfit Staples

The Long Coat

Longer coats are the go-to outerwear choice for autumn or winter, and for good reason. A good-quality, longer-length coat offers both warmth and style, but it's important you pick the right one to maximise your investment.

Fabric is a major consideration. Wool is a sustainable alternative to man-made fibres and perfect for offering insulation without bulk. Whilst they tend not to be 100% waterproof, they are water repellent, meaning you’ll stay dry in a light shower. 

You’ll also want to think about the cut. Trends come and go, but some styles never go out of fashion. If you’re looking for something timeless that you can wear for years to come, opt for a double- or single-breasted knee-length coat, or a wrap-style trench coat. 

The Chunky Knit  or Oversized Jumper

A cosy chunky knit is an autumn essential as it’s perfect for layering when you’re moving between outdoors and in. They can easily be dressed up or down, as well as add a lovely cosiness or texture to your overall look. The actual structure can influence how casual it feels, with finer, thinner knits generally looking more dressy than chunky ones. 

Opting for a neutral shade gives you flexibility to pair your chunky knit with anything, while a bold coloured or patterned knit can become a statement piece that brings neutral workwear to life.

The Tailored Blazer or Structured Jacket

The tailored blazer is a long-standing staple in many wardrobes. A sharp blazer or structured jacket can bring polish to an otherwise casual look. It’s ideal for a range of scenarios from job interviews to PTA meetings and family dinners. 

A tailored blazer is perfect for elevating a classic jeans and t-shirt look. By switching up the colour of your denim, or your choice of jewellery and accessories, you can create multiple different outfits from just one single blazer. 

The key to choosing the perfect blazer is in the fit. Pay attention to how it sits across the shoulders and the bust. You want it to look tailored rather than baggy, but at the same time, you should have full range of movement in your arms without being worried about splitting a seam!

The Day-to-Night Dress

A versatile dress is the ultimate in day-to-night wear, and the perfect autumn staple for your wardrobe. A midi-length wrap or shirt dress suits a wide range of body shapes and sizes and isn’t too dressy for daytime activities but is smart enough for after-hours. 

Dresses are perfect as the majority of them can be layered under knits or topped with a blazer or coat to keep you warm. You can even pair them with tights and boots so that you’re looking great and feeling stylish, whatever the weather.