12 Perfect Autumn Outfits That Make Getting Dressed Feel Exciting Again

We might be too old for a new school uniform and stationery, but September is still the perfect time for us to press reset on our wardrobes by rediscovering old favourites, donating ill-fitting items and identifying gaps that need filling. It can be all too tempting to crave newness with the start of a new season, but by taking stock, we can ensure any fresh purchases will work their hardest over the coming months and years.

One of my favourite ways to aid this process is to ensure I have a comprehensive bank of fashion inspiration (aka people who will inspire me to try new colour combos, take risks and see my wardrobe through new eyes). Working at Who What Wear, it's my job to keep up with those individuals who are killing in the style stakes, and this autumn, there are four women who have stood out to me.

Babba Rivera, Marianne Theodorsen, Oumaya Boumeshouli and Renata Jazdzyk all have one thing in common: They really own their personal style. I've seen plenty of fashion influencer feeds, and trust me—it's harder than it sounds. From Marianne's print-clashing powers and Oumaya's elevated minimalism to Babba's tonal pairings and Renata's trend-led getups, scroll down to see how these four influencers are inspiring my style this autumn.

I had to include Babba Rivera in this roundup if nothing else for the pitch-perfect tonal outfit she posted from Copenhagen Fashion Week (see the first snapshot below). Style-wise, she's a tricky one to pin-down, but that's what makes her so appealing. One day she'll be channelling '70s cool with a belted leather jacket, and the next, she'll be in a head-to-toe white ensemble. She does, however, have an enduring love of fabulous frocks (well, who doesn't?).

One thing I'll say about Marianne Theodorsen is that she's the only person who could convince me to try statement dressing. She's all about the print clashing (checks with polka dots, houndstooth with florals, oh, and let's not forget the leopard print, a constant presence in her OOTD posts). This autumn, I'll be channelling Marianne with Fair Isle knits thrown over leopard-print skirts, chunky boots and plenty of checked separates.

Oumaya loves a dramatic fashion moment (just check out her feed), but don't let that distract you from her cool autumn style combos, which are easier to re-create than you might expect. Utilitarian in spirit, but with a good dose of high-octane glamour, this is a lesson in how to make minimalist a little more interesting. Try knotting your boilersuit with a silk scarf or going double leather (the new double denim) this autumn, or simply add an oversized bag to your weekend look. 

If you're looking for someone who's on it with the latest trends but manages to wear them in a way that looks timeless, Renia Jaz—aka @venswifestyle—is the person for you. Able to pull off both traditionally masculine and feminine fits (and never afraid to embrace a dramatic silhouette), her feed offers something for everyone. My favourite recent look has to be her elevated cargo pants, white blouse and chain necklace outfit, which I totally intend to re-create this week. 

Up Next: Autumn/Winter 2019 Trends: The Only New Fashion Looks You Need to Know