I don’t know about you, but I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve ended up in a panic around 7.30am, flapping about what to wear to work while still in my underwear, knowing I’m supposed to be sitting on the tube in 10 minutes.
The best solution is a failsafe outfit that you turn to when that morning outfit flap strikes. But for autumn, I’m taking it one step further – we should all agree to add a few more outfit formulas to our repertoire to make getting dressed a breeze.
To help us on our way, I’ve listed seven chic autumn-friendly outfit ideas to save and use anytime the morning panic sets in. You can thank me later.
Light knit + white jeans + Birkenstock mules
When the weather starts to cool down, but you aren’t quite ready to part with summery vibes, a cream look is ideal.
A light knit (I’d avoid cashmere until the temperature’s in single figures) in crochet or wool is perfect for that in-between autumn weather when there’s a chill in the air, but you can still go out sans coat.
Slouchy off-white jeans (much more stylish than optic white) and suede mules tick the summery style box but offer that much needed autumn coverage. Team with slick black accessories to break it all up.
Remember to check the weather, though. Puddles + white jeans = not chic.
Trench coat + jeans + dad trainers + cap
Official Trench Weather is a tiny window in September/October, where a trench coat is the perfect cover-up to keep you dry before it gets too chilly.
So now we’re peak-OTW, it’s worth pinning down some autumn outfits you can wear yours with. Jeans and dad trainers are the most fashion-forward pairing of them all, particularly if you throw on a coloured baseball cap.
Straight jeans that are slightly cropped at the ankle and showcase a pair of trainers (we love Veja and New Balance the most), are the most flattering cut.
Blazer + leggings + trainers
An oversized blazer elevates any look, and a crop top and leggings two-piece is the most obvious example of this. If you’re just heading to get your nails done or picking up some dry-cleaning, it’s an easy stylish look.
Stick to a logo-less co-ord so as to look more luxe casual than just left the gym, and go for neutrals for added style points.
Throw on a glam bag (think quilted leather, gold chain straps or suede), and some gold jewellery to elevate it further.
Combats + cardigan + sandals
Combats have been the most on-trend trouser shape to wear since last season, and the trend is set to follow through to autumn, too, so they’re a safe investment style.
While it’s still warm you can get away with teaming with a ribbed vest and an open linen shirt for a chic look. To make it a little more autumnal, I’d wear with a plain T-shirt, trainers and a cardigan or blazer: the latter looks great against a more casual trouser style.
Shorts + knit + sandals
Our legs and feet can withstand the chill much more than our top halves can, so if you’re keen to hang on to summer a little longer, Bermuda shorts and dad sandals are the way to do it.
Up top, an oversized shirt or a knit (or both for added fashion points), is the way to go: it stops your outfit from looking so summery that it feels out of place, but isn’t giving into a wintry look too soon.
Team with a giant tote – you can stash a pair of leggings in it in case the weather takes a turn.
Knitted dress + ankle boots
A knitted dress is a staple trans-seasonal piece. Nicole’s bold sunflower hue nods to summer, but in a lightweight fabric, it works nicely in pre-cold weather.
For now, I’d team with dark Birkenstocks and a straw bag, then come October, swap them out for white trainers and a denim jacket. Don’t forget jewellery and some fancy hair slides to add interest.
H&M and Free People always do the best lightweight knit dresses, so make them your first port of call for autumn outfits.
Shacket + trousers + pumps
In the same way that combats and a blazer offer an interesting high-low mix, tailored high-waisted trousers and a shacket complement each other nicely, too. Go tonal, just like Chloe, for the most stylish look: khaki, camel, navy and ivory (for the brave) are super chic and easy to recreate.
It’s a formula for autumn outfits that’ll take you to a work meeting, and straight to after work drinks with a quick change of accessories. Go for dark sunglasses, a shoulder bag and strappy mules à la Chloe.
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