"What Should I Wear in Autumn?" Is a Big Question—We've Just Answered It
What should I wear in autumn? It's a question we've been asking ourselves for a least a few weeks now, and we think we've just about covered it. We've talked you through the top trends for the season ahead and gone into detail about the boots that are set to dominate for the next six months. We've charted the best new-in pieces from the chicest high-street stores and confirmed which prints are going to be splashed over everything for the foreseeable.
This, of course, is all excellent information and inspiration to refer back to, but when you boil autumn fashion down to its bare bones, what are the pieces you need to stylishly navigate the season? Today, we're here to show you just that.

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@isabellecoheenThe key to having a blessed autumn wardrobe is to surround yourself with an arsenal of reliable seasonal basics, pieces that are interchangeable and can be layered with one another and effortlessly thrown together with anything else hanging in your closet. These items will ensure every outfit you wear feels timeless and not too of the moment—even if you choose to pair them with some of the more directional A/W 21 trends.
So which pieces yield such power? Below, we've assembled a checklist of the staples you can pull out every autumn—some of which you probably already do! Scroll on to see exactly what to wear this season.
1. VERSATILE JACKETS

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@itsnajmaahmedStyle Notes: Look for monochromatic or neutral palettes in simple silhouettes to ensure maximum wear potential.
2. COSY FLEECES

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@amaka.hamelijnckStyle Notes: Cardigans and jumpers will always be autumn style mainstays, but fleeces feel more timely for 2021 and are often even toastier.
3. HOSIERY

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@raeannlangasStyle Notes: Is it just us, or is investing in new tights one of the better autumn rites of passage? Look for premium pairs and take care of them (e.g., wash them in cold water) to ensure they last the entire season.
4. KNITTED SETS

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@smythsistersStyle Notes: You're guaranteed to get adequate wear out of a knitted co-ord in autumn, as you can wear the pieces separately or together. Right now, we have our hearts set on this cobalt number.
5. KNEE-HIGH BOOTS

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@syanalaniyanStyle Notes: There are lots of boot trends to consider this year, but you can never go wrong with a pair of classic leather knee-high boots. Look for heeled styles that you can wear without concern pre-frost and -ice.
6. BUTTON-UP BLOUSES

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@jen_wondersStyle Notes: When it becomes too chilly for vest tops or slinky camisoles, turn to pretty button-up blouses. White styles will work with everything you own and look exceptional layered under 2021's trending knitted vests.
7. ROLL-NECK TOPS

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@ada_oguntoduStyle Notes: Roll-necks are to autumn what sandals are to summer—a nonnegotiable part of the fashion uniform. Start wearing yours at the first hint of the colder weather.
8. LIGHTWEIGHT COATS

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@sylviemus_Style Notes: While it might still be too warm to don your woolly outerwear, it would be remiss not to have a coat at your disposal should the weather turn. A lightweight option that’s roomy enough to layer over your knitwear is the goal—trenches are perfect,
9. LONG-SLEEVE DRESSES

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@allisonhoStyle Notes: There's a time and a place for bare arms, and autumn isn't it. Seek out long-sleeve dresses (preferably in knitted fabrications) to keep the heat in.
10. STRAIGHT-LEG JEANS

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@venswifestyleStyle Notes: Loose-leg jeans are proving all the rage this year, but you shouldn't forget about your trusty straight-legs. Not only do they look chic, but chances are they're narrow enough to tuck into your boots.
11. LEATHER SEPARATES

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@abimarvelStyle Notes: You know it's autumn when leather starts hitting the shelves again. Whether you opt for real or faux, this heavy-duty fabric will keep the chill at bay whilst bestowing your look with an air of cool. A win-win, really.