Helen Skelton elevates striped red top with a leather skirt

Helen Skelton attends JD Williams "Midlife Evening Show" on May 20, 2026 — (Image credit: Photo by Grant Buchanan/Dave Benett/Getty Images for JD Williams)

Helen Skelton's BBC Morning Live appearance proved that preppy stripes can be surprisingly elegant when styled correctly. Wearing an autumnal combination of red stripes with a brown leather skirt, her look feels polished yet easy to recreate.

If you're looking for fresh autumn outfit ideas, stripes are everywhere right now, from classic Breton to bolder colourful iterations. And if you're wondering how to style a striped top without it feeling casual, Helen has provided the chicest formula for the season ahead.

Styling a now sold-out red striped knitted top from M&S with a smooth brown leather skirt, she gives the print a more sophisticated feel. Brown leather heeled boots match the skirt, offering a tonal finishing touch. If you're on the hunt for go-to ways to elevate stripes, this formula is worth remembering.

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Gap

Cashsoft Knitted Striped Polo Top in Red

Made from soft cotton, this striped polo will be a playful addition to your knitwear collection. It has a relaxed cut and buttons on the collar for an easy-to-wear feel.

Albaray

Chocolate Faux Leather Pencil Skirt

Elevate your skirt collection with this luxurious faux leather style. Perfect on days you want to feel put-together in a hurry, it will pair with simple tees, smart blouses and knitwear too.

Zara

Leather Heeled Ankle Boots - Brown

These brown heeled boots finish just above the ankle for an elegant feel. The pointed toe and kitten heel make them the perfect going-out shoe, whilst the leather material is a durable choice.

Nobody's Child

Pink and Red Striped Scallop Edge Top

This pink and red polo top will brighten up dark autumn neutrals effortlessly. Style it with a faux leather skirt and boots, or dress it down with your favourite jeans and most comfortable trainers.

Brown Textured Faux Leather Skirt

This faux leather skirt looks far more expensive than it actually is. The chocolate brown shade is an on-trend choice whilst the column design feels so elegant.

Office

Kiwi Stretch Leg Block Heel Knee Boots Brown

As we turn into the colder months, you can't go wrong by investing in heeled leather boots. This brown leather pair are a versatile choice.

Whilst Helen's exact M&S jumper has now sold out, the beauty of this outfit is that you don't need the same pieces to recreate it. There are plenty of striped knitted tops on the high-street at the moment, and we're also seeing the rise of leather skirts as we turn into the later part of the year.

Stripes are a key part of the autumn/winter fashion trends 2026, and this classic print is being loved for its maximalist appeal. People are especially embracing colourful variations of the print, from bold fiery red tones to multicoloured staples that embrace the full spectrum of the rainbow; they are everywhere.

Molly is a fashion writer for woman&home, whose journalistic career began with her enthusiasm for fashion. Having always been an avid writer, she has contributed to publications covering a variety of topics.

After graduating from her master's in Fashion History and Cultures, she transitioned to teaching at London College of Fashion, where she taught in fashion studies. Now, passionate about writing on the significance of fashion, she is dedicated to inspiring others through the power of dress.

Molly loves staying in the know with the latest fashion trends, and following celebrities for inspiration. Outside of work, she enjoys browsing vintage markets, reading a good novel, or trying new restaurants around London.