Yes, our summer wardrobes are still in full swing. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned about planning a new season wardrobe, it’s that it never hurts to get ahead.
For autumn 2022, there are plenty of great autumn fashion trends to try. Some of which (I’m thinking ‘craftcore’ knits and oversized leather jackets) are best reserved for the actual winter.
But there are also some key pieces that you can start wearing now, that might even be in your wardrobe already.
From Nineties tank tops to platforms and mini dresses, here are seven ideas to refresh your wardrobe now, that you can wear in the autumn too.
The plain tank top
Who hasn’t got a classic vest top stuffed away in their wardrobe drawers? The minimalist staple is set to become a key piece this autumn, as spotted on the catwalks at Prada and Bottega Veneta.
This peak-casual piece is now an outfit focal point, elevated when worn with tailored trousers and slinky maxi skirts.
The ribbed jersey vest looks great on everyone, can be bought on a budget, and crucially is a style that you can wear year-round, whether in a summer heatwave or layered under shirts and jackets in colder months.
The ankle strap platforms
The quickest way to update any outfit for the new season? Switch the shoes.
Platforms are set to be huge (literally) for this year’s autumn fashion trends and Zara has got in early on the trend on the high street.
Jewel tone satin colours will look as great with jeans and a nice top in the autumn as they do with dresses at a summer wedding.
The slacks
Beige and khaki trousers are another minimalist Nineties piece set for a comeback. The counter-argument to a full-on floral frock this summer, wide-leg slacks now feel cooling and easy to style.
Wear with strappy sandals and the aforementioned vest top for a lunch date now, and then throw a chunky cardigan over the top when the weather cools down again.
The mini dress
Hemlines are on the up for autumn fashion trends – and that’s something we can definitely all get on board with now.
This particular cut, the mini shift dress, was popular at Valentino and Versace. Turning to the high street, this Warehouse dress is made from a lighter version of one of winter’s most-wanted fabrics, tweed, but comes in three striking colour choices to start wearing now.
Layer it up with a long sleeve T-shirt and tights later down the line.
Barbie pink
The hottest hue for the season ahead? Fuchsia. And there’s really no need to wait until the winter to start wearing it.
Valentino’s entire catwalk show was doused in a custom Pantone shade of pink, and who hasn’t seen the sneak previews of Margot Robbie as Barbie for next year’s hotly anticipated release on the big screen.
The colour has already started to filter into high street shops – H&M’s edit of cotton maxis and flared dresses would be ideal for any holiday evening outfits or honeymoon scenarios. For autumn, look to layering pieces, from blazers to corduroy shackets.
The top handle bag
Autumn’s key bag shape is a structured mini bag with a neat top handle. While there will be plenty of styles in rich wintery colours landing in the shops in September and October, why not pick something in a versatile colour that works all year for both summer and winter seasons?
By Far, JW Pei and Charles and Keith are three places I would recommend to find polished minibag silhouettes in a whole array of colours.
Sequins for day
There are few fashion contrasts as good as sequins and denim or sequins and a natty old knit. The mantra at Dries Van Noten, 16 Arlington and more catwalk shows this season? Why save the sparkles for best?
A subtle shimmering vest top is perhaps the easiest route into this autumn fashion trend, as well as being a piece in your wardrobe that you can re-wear and re-style for seasons to come. Tuck it into those khaki slacks for an easy evening look.