Update Your Autumn Wardrobe

5 instant updates for your autumn wardrobe
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This is the time of year when unpredictable weather can make dressing difficult. A warm, sunny day followed by a cool, wet day means that you need to be prepared for unpredictability. When it’s cold in the morning and then gets chilly in the evening, it’s time to admit that summer is definitely over!

Here are my five key picks for transitional dressing which will take you beyond autumn into the cooler months as we need to start layering up.

No.1 the lightweight knit

This is the season for skinny knit jumper or cardigan. Warmer than a t-shirt or blouse, they can be worn with trousers and skirts, and layered under a shacket or dress. Look for slim fit, not tight and clingy for the most flattering silhouette, and a cotton or wool blend that provides a a bit of warmth.

No.2 the Jumpsuit

There are so many ways to style a jumpsuit, it can be a true wardrobe hero. Roll the sleeves up, turn up the legs to showcase ankle boots or heels, and accessorise with different belts.

Undo a few buttons and wear with a camisole and necklaces, or over a long sleeve t-shirt or roll neck when it’s cold. Wear with a chunky cardigan on top by day, or a relaxed blazer or leather jacket in the evening.

No.3 The autumn dress

Less wafty and floaty than a Summer dress, the perfect dress for this season is midi or maxi, and good for wearing barelegged with trainers or with tights and shoes or boots later on. Make sure there’s room for a thin layer underneath when you need it.

Pick an autumnal print or colour so it doesn’t look too summery and looks right with chunky footwear.

No.4 the tweed boucle jacket

Introduced by Coco Chanel in the 1950’s, the short, tweedy jacket is back this season. Soft and unstructured it adds smartness to a casual outfit. Perfect with a t-shirt, jeans and trainers now, and with a lightweight jumper and ankle boots before its time for your winter coat to come out.

No.5 the bare leg boot

When it’s too cold for sandals and summer shoes and you want an alternative to trainers, pick a pair of ankle boots that can be worn barelegged with cropped trousers or a midi skirt. Look for styles that fit neatly around the ankle to avoid the welly look, and a colour other than black looks more flattering than black against bare skin.

Karina Taylor