12 autumn buys I predict will sell out as temperatures drop

a selection of autumn drops on the high street — (Image credit: Mint Velvet, Next, M&S, Zara, John Lewis, ME+EM)

I never thought I would be this invested in the weather, but I think the forecast app has become my most used, and I, for one, can't wait for a drop in temperature over the next week or two. While autumn outfits are always my favourite, after such a hot summer, I feel particularly excited to refresh my wardrobe and get back to layering.

Despite the warm climes, autumn collections have started to drop into shops. And while the most organised women are already buying knitwear, if you've been hesitant about shopping while the sun still shines, I'm here to tell you that autumn starts now, and those early drops aren't set to hang about.

From chic leather jackets to the best trench coats, key seasonal staples in trending colours are already flying off the shelves, and the best cashmere jumpers are really starting to take off as we get our autumn capsule wardrobe shipshape for the months ahead. These are the 12 pieces I predict will sell out as soon as those cooler temps set in.

M&S

Faux Leather Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket

While I've got my eye on this real leather iteration from M&S, if you're looking for a more affordable way to shop the leather look this season, this super stylish jacket has a trending funnel neck and bomber shaped silhouette for a directional look on a budget. A great layer for autumn, before your 'big coat' comes out that will add a cool finish to any ensemble.

ZARA

Printed Shoulder Bag - Multicoloured - One Size Only

The autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026 very much favour the bold and these bright totes with customisable elements deliver a designer-led feel on a budget - something I'm a big fan of. With two different sizes, and the ability to add initials, it makes a great gift or self gift in two shades that will brighten any outfit.

Blue/brown Polka Dot Plisse Long Sleeve Shirt

Polka dots have taken the summer season by storm, and the love for the dotty print is gently continuing into autumn. This brown and pale blue colour combination is particularly striking, and one I'm to see carry on, as it teams beautifully with denim of all shades, but is also polished enough to team with tailored trousers or skirts.

John Lewis

John Lewis Cashmere Brushed Sleeveless Crew Neck Cardigan, Chocolate

John Lewis cashmere is some of the best, and its range of brushed pieces add a soft and fluffy feel to the classic knit style. In a trending olive colourway, this short sleeved, button-through design can be worn as a sweater or as a light cardigan, making it ideal for the coming weeks. And honourable mention is needed though to this cashmere quarter zip it's a stunner.

Oliver Bonas

Brown Leopard Print Knitted Triangle Scarf

Animal print remains one of the key autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026 and this cute, triangular, knit scarf is a great way of adding just a hint of big cat to your wardrobe right now. Over a coat, paired with a utility jacket, or simply instead of a necklace with a t-shirt, there is a reason triangle scarves are such a hit, they're so easy to style.

Mint Velvet

Black Side Stripe Tie Waist Wide Leg Trousers

Side striped trousers are set to remain a core styling choice throughout the autumn. Preppy, directional and leg-lengthening, this pair of tailored trousers have a sporty yet smart silhouette and added trending tones of olive and white for a subtly standout design that you can dress in multiple ways. Lean into olive, like the model or tone down with black.

MANGO

Leather Loafers

Forget comfortable sandals, we're headed back into closed toe shoe season, and loafers should be at the top of your list if you want a polished flat footwear choice. This pair is under £60 and crafted from real leather. The light tan colourway will make them easy to style as this neutral goes with pretty much any other hue in your rotation.

Uniqlo

Puffertech Jacket

Lightweight, slim fitting, but also warm, if you haven't investigated Uniqlo's outerwear, make this your season of discovery. Available in a sensational 25 colours - some of which are already selling out, this timeless design can be rolled and stowed in its own dedicated pouch making this Uniqlo autumn buy perhaps the most practical choice.

ZARA

Rhinestone Diamond Stud Earrings - Golden - M

If you're pretty satisfied with your autumn capsule wardrobe, use jewellery to update your look for the weeks ahead. Something as simple as a statement or sculptural pair of earrings will tap into the jewellery trends of 2026, and if you check out Zara's stellar accessories collection, you can update on a budget. I love this mixed-material design.

Women's Reversible Belted Trench Coat

With 67% off, this is an absolute style steal to kick start your autumn wardrobe with. Reversible coats are set to be one of this season's biggest outerwear trends, delivering two looks for the price of one. This classic, long length design features a subtle beige side and a punchier checked design so you can pick your style personality on any given day.

ME+EM

A-Line Maxi Skirt

A denim maxi skirt with a seventies-inspired silhouette taps nicely into folksy, autumnal boho trends that are a core part of autumn style guides. This front-slit style in a mid-blue wash offers a very timely aesthetic, that feels totally classic, too. Dress it up with boots and a blouse, or down with a trainer and tee.

Nobodys Child

Blue and Burgundy Check Madden Maxi Skirt

Checks are back for a second outing this autumn and this glam maxi skirt adds a bohemian feel to the classic heritage trend. The swishy silhouette offers plenty of movement, and added wow factor that allow you to dress this design up or down. My personal preference would be to style with a cosy knit and a pair of brown knee-high boots.

When it comes to autumn trends, there truly is something for everyone, and the early new-in drops are already reflecting the style themes that are set to dominate the high street and our wardrobes.

Getting ready for the months ahead isn't about replacing everything, though; it's about noting what you already have, what's missing and what buys can help make everything feel a little fresher. This could be a statement jacket with a directional funnel neckline, a sweater in trending olive green, or something as simple as a statement pair of earrings to draw eyes up to your face.

One thing is for certain: the high street is set to have a season full of style, and you don't have to spend a fortune to get on board and feel good. But the last thing you want is to miss out, so if something catches your eye, my advice at this point in the autumn is to shop while stocks last, as everyone else is looking for newness too

Rivkie is a fashion editor, writer and stylist with twenty years' experience in the industry. Rivkie studied design and pattern cutting at the London College of Fashion, and fell in love with styling and journalism, and has covered fashion weeks in London, Paris and New York, as well as shooting editorial all over the world.

Specialising in plus size fashion, Rivkie has long championed that style is for everyBODY and has appeared on a host of radio stations and television shows, pushing for greater representation for plus size women and fashion throughout her career.