When it comes to autumn outfit ideas, we’re seriously spoilt for inspiration. Arguably the most exciting season in the fashion calendar, the drop in temperature allows us to pull out all the stops and create a multitude of outfit combinations.
Autumn outfit ideas require planning, as the changeable temperatures require a use of clever layering. Creating an autumn capsule wardrobe full of transitional jackets, the best trench coats, cosy knitwear and new-in boots will help to create a strong base layer from which you can build multiple outfit ideas. Texture is key with heavier fabrics such as leather, corduroy, faux fur, wool and suede all coming into play from late September onwards.
“In the summer it’s easy to just throw on a cotton dress and be ready but autumn allows us to be a lot more creative with our looks. You can’t go wrong with the best jeans and knit combo but if you want to elevate it, simply add a statement boot or polished trench and wait for the compliments to roll in,” says Eloisa Johnson, Deputy Fashion Editor at woman&home.
Of course, you can tap into some of the autumn/winter fashion trends 2023 to make your ensembles feel more directional, and mix them with wardrobe essentials such as best cashmere sweaters to carry you through the season.
AUTUMN OUTFIT IDEAS - STYLISH OUTFITS CHOSEN BY A FASHION EDITOR
Ready to prep your autumn outfit ideas? We’ve rounded up all the inspiration you need so you can step into the season in style.
1. JEANS + BLAZER
A classic combo you’ll reach for time and time again, the jeans and blazer pairing is a fail-safe formula that always looks chic. Mastering that tricky smart-casual dress code, the blazer keeps your denim feeling polished whilst the jeans give tailoring a cool, relaxed spin. A quick and easy outfit to pull together, it’s the perfect partnership when it’s too hot for the best winter coat, but too cold for a dress on its own.
Most types of jeans will look good with a blazer, whether you opt for straight-leg jeans and an oversized jacket or wide-leg jeans and a cropped blazer, the outfit combinations are endless. Incredibly versatile, this high-low mix works for many occasions from the office to date night. Layer the blazer over the best t-shirts now and swap for a fine-knit jumper when the temperatures drop. You can even throw a coat on top when it starts to get really cold. Don’t be afraid to mix in wintery textures here - a leather blazer adds an achingly cool edge
RRP: £148 / $148 | A classic straight-leg jean that ticks all the boxes, these will become your new well-worn favourites. Made from a recycled cotton blend, they have a slightly more baggy fit for a more relaxed aesthetic, making them ideal for weekends.
RRP: £325 / $545 | Embrace the masculinity of the blazer with this boyfriend-fit design. The check print adds extra interest and the pop of lime gives the monochrome tone a punchy finish. Pair with one of the best Kate Spade handbags in lime for an extra zing.
RRP: £14.90 / $19.90 | When it comes to elevated basics, Uniqlo has got you covered. Made from 100% premium cotton, this is one of the best t-shirts, and it is super soft against the skin. Snap it up in five different hues to ensure your basics are well-stocked.
2. JUMPER DRESS
Combining the cosiness of your knitwear with the chicness of a dress, the jumper dress is an autumn hero piece. The beauty lies in the comfort, with a slouchy fit that drapes effortlessly over your figure, making it easy to throw-on in a rush in the morning with minimal effort. You can add a belt if you want extra definition on the waist, or keep it loose for a more relaxed feel.
It has heaps of styling potential too and looks just as good worn with the best white trainers as it does elevated with some knee-high boots and a chunky chain necklace for an evening out. Add a dose of dopamine dressing and opt for a bold red or orange number, or keep it tonal in classic camel and tan accessories.
RRP: £110 / $149 | Understated and elegant, this knitted dress is crafted from a cosy wool blend and nails that effortless throw-on-and-go style. The flared hem and ribbed detailing adds a flattering finish, as it will create a more hourglass shape.
RRP: £79.99 / $129 | One of the big autumn/winter shoe trends 2023, western-style boots will give feminine dresses an achingly cool twist. Zara’s mastered the style with this iteration - the pointed toe will help elongate your legs too, it's a win-win.
RRP: £380 / $520 | Sometimes the smallest details can have the biggest impact and this leopard print belt will do just that. A worthy investment, this is a designer belt that’ll go with pretty much everything, wear over your jumper dress to define the waist.
3. OVERSIZED KNIT + LEATHER TROUSERS
Swap your go-to denim for a pair of sleek leather trousers for a fresh update. If you’re stuck on how to wear leather trousers, we can confirm they are just as easy to wear as your best jeans but with a cooler aesthetic and they’re fast becoming a style staple. Take note from the street style set and pair yours with an oversized knit for a classic meets cutting-edge look. This combination looks especially neat with the best leather leggings or a straight-leg silhouette to offset the oversized top half. For an elevated weekend look, add a pop of colour with a vibrant knit to compliment the neutral tones and team with coffees and caramels. Finish with a pair of stompy boots or a sleek mule to render it dinner date-ready.
As with the best leather jackets, the fabric only gets better with age so leather trousers are a great investment piece. Alternatively, there are plenty of faux leather and vegan options that look just as stylish. Finish off the look with one of this season's best John Lewis coats for added warmth.
RRP: £27.99 / $34.99 | High street stalwarts H&M are pros when it comes to knitwear at affordable prices and this is no exception. An oversized fit with a ribbed turtleneck detail, the wide sleeves add an extra layer of drama to this cute and cosy number.
RRP: £349 | The comfort of leggings with the sleekness of leather, you’ll never want to take off this buttery soft pair. The elasticated waist ensures a comfy and snug fit. Leather can start off tight, but stretch over time so go for your normal size.
RRP: £69 / $56 | We love a '90s-inspired mule and these are top of our wish list this season. The tweed detailing adds a designer-inspired spin and the sculptural heel gives them a modern finish. Match with a head-to-toe tonal look.
4. MIDI DRESS + BOOTS
Not quite ready to part with your best summer dresses? Fret not. Most midi dresses will work through autumn too, it just comes down to some clever styling tricks. Ditch your summer sandals and introduce some sleek boots to give floaty frocks a tougher edge. Try a chunky biker boot or keep it elegant in a heeled sock boot. The midi dress and boots coupling is a go-to look to take you seamlessly from day to night.
Choose long-sleeve dresses for extra coverage or add warmth by layering a slim-knit polo neck underneath lighter or shorter sleeve styles. The best gilets are having a bit of a moment, and are perfect for those tricky in-between weather days, keeping us cosy without the thickness of a full-on coat - whilst simultaneously letting the dress still take centre stage.
RRP: £59.99 / $99.99 | A timeless shirt dress gives classic tailoring a feminine twist and is easy to dress up or down. This geo print design is a fresh update on traditional prints and the removable belt helps to cinch you in at the waist.
RRP: £230 / $275 | Durable and oh-so-chic, these lace-up boots have serious round-the-clock appeal. Some of the best black boots to take you into autumn, they're incredibly versatile. Wear with the best midi dresses, jeans and everything in between.
RRP: £149 / $299 | The ultimate layering tool, this faux fur gilet is glamorous and delightfully toasty. Featuring a high neck and a mid-length, style with dresses and long-sleeve tops for extra warmth, without too much bulk, whilst tapping into this season's coat trends.
5. SKIRT + SWEATER
A favourite amongst the fashion elite, if you want to dress like Carrie Bradshaw then read on. The key to nailing this pairing is all in the contrasting textures. Think chunky cable knits with slinky skirts or a leather skirt with a cashmere jumper for a cosy meets chic look.
You can add structure to the sweater with a half tuck - that’s tucking in just the front half to help highlight your waist - this avoids adding bulk to your middle too as opposed to tucking in the whole jumper which can look messy.
Dial up the glamour with accessories - gold hoop earrings, the best designer bags and some kitten-heel boots will finish this look off effortlessly.
RRP: £97 / $129 | Add a dash of luxury to the every day with this slinky satin skirt. With clean lines and a flattering straight fit, it has an elasticated waistband for comfort. Dress down with tees and trainers for a pulled-together look that oozes elegance.
RRP: £185 / $198 | Made from 100% cashmere, 50% of which is recycled, this is soft and sustainable. It has a boxy, slightly cropped fit making it a breeze to pair with high-waisted trousers and skirts. Available in five chic muted hues.
RRP: £1,600 / $2,250 | A mini version of the designer's iconic ‘Gate Dual’ bag, this designer crossbody is an instant classic. Featuring the brand's signature statement bow finish, the neutral colourway ensures versatility. A true Quiet Luxury handbag.
6. SLEEVELESS KNIT + TOP
No longer saved for the grandads, the sleeveless knit or sweater vest has made quite the comeback and it’s cooler than ever - and it's perfect for autumn outfit ideas. A handy layering tool, a knitted vest adds warmth without the bulk, making it easy to wear on its own, over dresses and shirts or underneath a blazer or the best denim jackets.
Slip them over a tee, shirt or slim roll neck, these retro-inspired vests will give any outfit a joyful spin. From colourful cable knits to vibrant stripes to classic fair isle sweaters, there are heaps of fun and fashionable designs to choose from, each with the sartorial powers to lift your look in an instant. Pair with tailored trousers or a pleated skirt for a preppy feel and complete the look with the best loafers.
RRP: £59 / $99 | A style staple, this tailored shirt is guaranteed to get plenty of wear. It has an oversized fit and a flattering curved hem, with considered details such as a pointed collar and patch pocket giving it a premium finish. This won't go out of style.
RRP: £195 / $255 | Go bold with your knits with this colourful slogan design. Made from a blend of recycled wool, it has sustainable credentials too. The v-neckline is super flattering and looks great layered over shirts or tees for a more casual wear.
RRP: £29.50 / $51.99 | An everyday icon that’s easy to dress up or down, these tapered trousers are universally flattering. The self-tie belt pulls you in at the waist and the ankle-grazing finish will lengthen legs too, add to your capsule workwear wardrobe stat.
7. TRENCH + TROUSERS
The one piece of clothing that will always be able to navigate tricky transitional dressing is the trench coat. Defined by its double-breasted design, storm flaps and waist-cinching self-tie belt, it’s elegant and oh-so-flattering.
Forever timeless, the trench coat’s superpower comes in its versatility with the ability to be thrown over pretty much any look to add instant polish - layer up over chunky knits in winter or over tees in spring, it can be adapted to any temperature and situation. Whether you opt for a luxury Burberry trench coat or a budget-friendly version, you won’t regret investing in this well-cut piece of outerwear.
Despite its universal appeal and timeless abilities, it’s anything but boring and comes in many iterations from tough leather to cropped fits for a modern update. For longevity, our advice would be to stick with a classic neutral colour to ensure plenty of wear from season to season. A camel trench coat also looks great styled with other autumnal hues - brown boots, leather trousers and warm red dresses (one of the top autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2023)
RRP: £750 / $755 | A lightweight, cotton trench with storm flaps and shoulder epaulettes, this beautifully crafted coverup is a worthy investment. The belt helps to create a flattering hourglass silhouette but you can leave it open for a more relaxed look.
RRP: £129 / $219 | A nod to the utility trend, a pair of cargo trousers are well worth adding to your wardrobe rotation. The linen-blend fabric keeps them lightweight for year-round wear. Team with a tucked-in top to show off the waist.
RRP: £160 / $176 | An ethical and environmentally friendly trainer brand, Veja shoes are a no brainer. The rich burgundy and purple accents gives the classic white trainer an autumnal edge that still pairs well with everything.
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