10 Staples That Make Up the Ultimate Autumn-in-London Capsule Wardrobe
Lauren-Nicole steps out in the streets of London in a cool double-denim look.
It's October, which means London Fashion Week has been and gone. The September shows always mark the start of autumn, and for this, we're not-so-secretly glad.
There's nothing like a new season to make you want to reassess your wardrobe, pull out gems you haven't worn for months and identify any gaps. To celebrate, we've looked to some of London's most stylish dressers to see which trends they're already backing for autumn and how they're mastering this notoriously tricky time for dressing. Needless to say, their outfits threw up a wealth of inspiration.
It turns out that just a handful of key buys can bring your wardrobe instantly up-to-date for autumn—be it a new bag shape or an inspired shoe choice. Scroll through the 10 pieces that are all you need to compile the ultimate London autumn capsule wardrobe to carry you through the next few months.
1. Chic Jumpsuits
Style Notes: There are so many reasons to embrace the brilliantly versatile jumpsuit. First, it's more effortless than a dress. Second, it can be dressed up or down, and third, it flatters every body type. Make room for any jumpsuit style this autumn. You could even go for one with tailored details like the above, which features statement utility-style pockets.
Shop the trend:
2. Directional Trenches
Style Notes: If you've been hankering after a classic trench, may we point you in the direction of one with an unusual twist? Whether it's oversized, deconstructed or cape-like, you'll reap the benefits of being able to chuck it over anything in unpredictable weather while cutting quite the dash.
Shop the trend:
The colour blocking gives this trench the edge.
3. Chunky Knee Boots
Style Notes: Okay, so you mightn't need rubberised, track-sole, waterproof knee boots just yet, but seeing as this specific style is set to be the most popular of the season, it pays to secure yours early.
Shop the trend:
4. Leather Separates
Style Notes: How can you add edge to your transeasonal looks? With a touch of leather. Whether it's a pencil skirt or a coat, nothing screams Londoner attire like this edgy fabrication.
Shop the trend:
Pair this with a mesh top and heeled boots for an on-trend evening ensemble.
5. Chain Jewellery
Style Notes: There's no easier way to add power to your look than with a statement piece of jewellery. And the look that just keeps on gaining traction? Big, chunky chain necklaces and bracelets.
Shop the trend:
I always gravitate toward Laura Lombardi jewellery.
6. Cross-Body Handbags
Style Notes: If you're after a new handbag, go hands-free and loop a cross-body over your shoulder. We're particularly fond of the slouchy banana-shaped iterations.
Shop the trend:
A bag that covers all the bases, regardless of the season.
7. Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: This year, wide-leg trousers continue to be all the rage. They're comfortable and chic in equal amounts, so it's easy to understand why. Make like Marianne and wear yours with a knitted tank (coming right up) for perhaps the most 2023 autumn ensemble.
Shop the trend:
The Frankie Shop tailoring is like gold dust—almost impossible to find in stock.
8. A Dose of Tartan
Style Notes: Though checks are always on the London style agenda, none feel quite as British-cool as tartan. Whether you choose to wear it from head to toe or simply mix it in with a plaid top, don't be afraid to experiment with clashing several iterations at once.
Shop the trend:
This is crying out to be styled with sleek knee-high boots.
9. Knitted Vests
Style Notes: We promised you that knitted vests would make our edit, and just as well, as they're the one piece all London fashion types, regardless of their personal aesthetics, seem to agree upon. They're ideal for wearing under even the most fitted outerwear, owning to their sleeveless cut, so they are the ultimate layering piece for autumn.
Shop the trend:
Wear this sans anything underneath now, then with a roll-neck in a contrasting colour when temperatures drop.
10. Knitted Tube Dresses
Style Notes: The ripple effects of the Y2K aesthetic cement tube dresses as the need-to-know (and own) dress style right now. Look for knitted fabrications that’ll carry you through the colder months.
Shop the trend:
You'll also find this comes in an autumn-ready burgundy, and expensive-looking cream.
Ideal for minimalists.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: People in Paris and London Are Now Wearing Trench Coats in This Fresh New Colour
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.
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