Temperatures have dropped, and if you are looking for clever ways to stay warm without having to completely rethink your wardrobe, these thermal leggings from M&S deserve your attention. Whilst reaching for chunkier knits or heavy coats is an obvious move, what you layer underneath makes the biggest difference.

M&S has become one of the most reliable British clothing brands - not only for fashionable must-haves but for practical staples too - and its Heatgen™ Maximum Thermal Fleece Leggings are a worthwhile buy. Designed to offer an extra layer of warmth, they have a cosy fleece lining that's ideal if you want to wear your favourite skirts or dresses or even lightweight trousers.

Coming in three versatile colourways: black, white and dark aubergine, these leggings will see you through the season in style. Wear them underneath a midi skirt with sturdy boots, layer them beneath a knitted dress or simply wear them solo with one of the best cashmere jumpers. They're a simple and affordable way to beat the cold through the winter months.

Shop M&S Heatgen Leggings

Shop more thermal leggings

Always look for a pair of thermal leggings that are comfortable enough to wear all day. A soft, brushed lining can make a real difference in providing warmth and cosiness, whilst those with added stretch will ensure that you don't feel uncomfortable. This pair from M&S have a really accessible price point; however, other brands such as Uniqlo and Calzedonia also have thermal leggings that are worth considering too.

Although these thermals are a great layering piece, they look equally stylish worn solo. If you're wondering how to style leggings, take inspiration from Claudia Winkleman's outfits from The Traitors by pairing them with chunky boots. On top, wear a roll-neck jumper and a checked blazer for a smart-casual outfit that will keep you toasty in colder temperatures.

A tailored two-piece is useful in any wardrobe, as you can wear it together and then build an endless number of looks around each half - and Ruth Langford's bold blue suit gives the smart set a modern feel.

The presenter loves a bright ensemble, and while on an episode of Loose Women earlier this week, Ruth opted for a cobalt-toned blazer and trouser look by Mango. The colour looked incredible on the star, and had a fun feel while still being very polished.

It's one of those pairings that will work equally as well for a day at the office as it will for festive cocktails, and the cobalt hue taps into the autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026 for a fresh finish. Sadly, Ruth’s exact suit has sold out, but there are plenty of alternatives available on the high street right now that will tick the trend off with ease.

A suit like Ruth's is a wise investment, as you can wear each piece with other separates to get plenty of wardrobe mileage out of your jacket and trousers.

Try wearing your colour pop blazer over a roll-neck jumper and denim for a smart take on weekend dressing, or use it to pep up last year's sequin dress once party season arrives.

Your bold bottoms can be very versatile too - add an oversized fluffy knit for a relaxed vibe or team with a patterned blouse and some sparkly jewels for a fresh take on your date night outfits.

You can create a wide range of ensembles around one hero suit, and opting for a bold colour will make double the statement.

Cat Deeley's elegant velvet trouser suit has me reconsidering party dresses this season. Seen on This Morning wearing a luxurious midnight-hued blazer with silky lapels and matching wide-leg trousers from the British clothing brand Jigsaw, the star absolutely dazzled.

With party season almost upon us, now is the perfect time to start thinking about what to wear for festive celebrations. Whilst dresses are always a reliable choice, trouser suits are an elegant alternative. Velvet is synonymous with this time of year, and you can't beat a tailored two-piece in this luxurious fabric.

Cat wears the navy velvet shawl-collar blazer with matching wide-leg trousers that fall beautifully, creating an elegant, elongated silhouette. Reflecting the blue of her suit, Cat wore a silvery-blue satin shirt from French Connection and finished her look with black boots, because despite what you might have previously thought, blue and black can work together.

The deep navy shade is what really draws us to this trouser suit. It's just as sophisticated as black, but far more flattering on all skin tones, and it catches the light beautifully. The shade goes well with silver, gold or classic black accessories, so you can have plenty of fun with how you style it.

The great thing about a velvet trouser suit is just how much wear you can get out of the individual pieces, the blazer would look just as good thrown on over a simple T-shirt and jeans whilst the wide-leg trousers can also be worn solo with a ruffled or silky blouse, simple shirts or lightweight knits.

If you're looking for something a little bit different to wear this party season, take inspiration from Cat's look. Either keep it simple by wearing the matching pieces and neutral accessories, or add even more texture with a satin blouse or lace camisole. Finish with a pair of heeled boots or slingbacks, and you're good to go.

Very few handbag brands have built a star-studded clientele quite like DeMellier. Not only is its coveted New York Tote a firm favourite with A-listers, but its Stockholm shoulder bag, with its east-to-west design, has solidified itself as a must-have – and it's the best partywear accessory.

Naomi Watts was spotted in New York carrying the Stockholm bag in the sleek black leather version. With its elongated shape, streamlined profile, and compact design, this is one of the best designer handbags for transitioning from day to evening. Plus, with festive celebrations right around the corner, it's ideal for pairing with fabulous party dresses.

She styled the bag with a glamorous jacquard dress by Balmain featuring an eye-catching mix of green and violet metallic detailing. Polka dot tights and buttery yellow heels bring a playful flair to her look whilst sculptural bronze earrings and large square sunglasses finish it off.

Shop Naomi Watts' DeMellier bag and affordable alternatives

What makes this bag style such a good investment is its versatility. The sleek east-to-west design feels elegant enough to pair with sequins or velvet, yet it's also understated enough to team with your smart-casual outfits or even laid-back denim. Also, an advantage of choosing a shoulder bag over a traditional clutch is that you don't have to sacrifice practicality for style.

Naomi's look is worth taking inspiration from if you are planning your festive partywear. The eye-catching metallic dress paired with patterned tights is a duo that always works, and the pop of colour from her shoe choice is an excellent styling move.

It has suddenly got cold and gloomy very fast, and as we put autumn outfits away and head into winter, one thing that gives me solace is that the festive season is a little closer. Meaning Christmas jumpers, Fair Isle knits and lashings of embellishment are firmly on the shopping list.

The Christmas countdown starts now, and even though the 10th of December is earmarked as Christmas jumper day, my November and December wardrobe demands an added dose of festive cheer. With some seriously lovely knits, and regardless of your aesthetic, I promise there is a woolly wonder to match.

Think about how you plan to wear your jumper. With leggings or skinny jeans, you can afford to go a little more oversized; if you're looking to team it with skirts or wide-legged trousers, you probably want a more waisted hemline and a more fitted shape to balance out your silhouette.

My favourite Christmas jumpers of 2026

Fair Isle Christmas jumper 2026

Embellished Christmas jumpers 2026

Novelty Christmas jumpers 2026

While I save my cashmere jumpers for best, when it comes to something a little more festive, there is a designated time period in which they are most appropriate, so affordability is certainly a factor. This often means defaulting to the best wool jumpers, or blends, where you can benefit from the breathability of natural fibres, alongside the cost-effective use of synthetic materials.

Although I am firmly in camp embellishment, I love any excuse to wear sequins, yes, even in the day. I do love the timelessness of a Fair Isle pattern, and if your Fair Isle of choice is devoid of Christmas graphics, these tap well into the autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026. Heritage patterns, such as Fair Isle, never truly go out of fashion, so if you're looking for an investment, a neutral design in this classic style is a great option.

And if you're one for a novelty knit? Well, this is your time to shine. Slogan sweaters, covering everything from 'Jingle Bells' to 'Merry and Bright' and more, are readily available on the high street, and there is no better time to embrace a little frivolity.

When it comes to autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026, the heritage aesthetic has returned as one of the most popular looks of the season. And Lorraine Kelly ticked off the aesthetic last week in a slinky midi frock in a timeless check pattern.

Despite its current favour, it is a style that rarely falls out of style, making it an excellent investment, so you can wear your patterned buy year after year. The presenter looked amazing during an episode of her show, wearing a yellow checked cowl neck midi dress by Mint Velvet. The fitted frock made a statement but still managed to feel very timeless, and Lorraine styled it like a pro with just a pair of navy court shoes.

It was a winning combination, and it’s one of those hero outfits that’s worth bookmarking, as it can be dressed up with heels, or down with boots and a leather jacket, ensuring you can max out the cost per wear.

A bit like polka dots and stripes, check prints seem to work seamlessly from year to year, so investing in a style similar to Lorraine's dress will make a wise addition to any autumn capsule wardrobe, and it will work into the winter too - just layer up.

When it comes to styling, plaid pieces can be more versatile than you might expect, and you can build several outfits around them.

To add even more of a heritage feel, try layering your dress with a chunky knit jumper and boots, or give your frock a relaxed rework with your most comfortable trainers and funnel neck jacket. To take your dress into evening, take note from Lorraine and just add some simple heels and minimal jewels.

Katie Holmes just wore the outerwear trend worth investing in this season. Spotted in New York running errands, she wore a deep burgundy bomber jacket by Banana Republic. Not only am I coveting her exact jacket, but her whole look is seriously chic.

Layered over a pink striped knit and paired with dark indigo jeans, this outfit proves that you don't need to complicate your cold-weather attire to feel put-together. Bomber jackets have been a key autumn/winter fashion trend in 2026, taking on a more elevated feel, with luxe leathers in deep autumnal shades being top of the list. Giving the typically more casual silhouette a sophisticated feel.

Alongside the striped knit and wide-leg jeans, Kate finished her look with the Toteme T-Lock bag and black cat-eye shades. To complete her smart casual outfit, Kate chose similarly hued burgundy loafers, ticking off one of autumn/winter 2026's biggest shoe trends.

Build the outfit

In line with the current autumn/winter fashion colour trends 2026, burgundy has established itself as one of the key shades to wear this season. It works particularly well with denim, as the cool blue tones of the jeans balance out the richness of the dark red hue.

There's something both effortless and polished about this combination, and it's so easy to recreate. A burgundy leather jacket adds a luxurious feel to laid-back denim and makes a stylish alternative to classic black iterations. And what's great about this formula is that it works with both the best wide-leg jeans and skinnier styles too.

M&S has given us plenty of reasons to get excited about Christmas with its new festive advert – especially when it comes to winter dressing. Starring Lucy Punch as Mrs Claus, James Norton as Santa and a guest appearance from Katherine Jenkins, this advert is full of seasonal fashion moments, from statement outerwear to party dresses.

Lucy Punch first appears in the most luxurious set of pyjamas with bright, playful pink stripes – they are perfect for cosying up on Christmas morning. Later on, she swaps her loungewear for a fabulous tiger-print coat and leather kitten heels as she is seen leaving the M&S store. And of course, everything is available to shop at the British clothing brand right now.

Katherine Jenkins is seen towards the end of the advert, singing in a beautiful sequin mini dress with long sleeves, large silver earrings, and elegant open-toe heels. Not only is this the perfect formula for Christmas work parties, but it's also just as fabulous for New Year's Eve or fancy dinner reservations with friends.

Shop M&S advert fashion picks

M&S is a great destination for festive fashion or a winter wardrobe update; they've tapped into the autumn/winter fashion trends 2026, and you don't have to spend a fortune to find pieces that feel special and on-trend, too. From statement outerwear that makes getting dressed in the cold a little bit more exciting to fabulous accessories and partywear that will add a touch of joy to your festive wardrobes, they have it all!

Plus, with more drops being added to the website, it's worth keeping an eye out for even more fabulous fashion finds over the upcoming weeks.

As someone who considers themselves a knitwear connoisseur, British clothing brand TOAST is always my first port of call. I check its new-in page more often than I should, and its commitment to using excellent fabrics and timeless designs means it never disappoints.

I worked for the brand several years ago, and it left me with a deep appreciation for TOAST's approach to making clothes. This season, its knitwear collection is stronger than ever with rich, earthy shades and durable, woolly fabrics. And although I already own several of its knits, I have my eye on a few new styles for the chilly months ahead.

From the Orla sweater that's made from wool spun in Donegal, Ireland, to the breathable cotton-linen easy sweater that hangs beautifully on the body, the knitwear collection is full of must-haves, including the best cashmere jumpers too. Below, I've rounded up some of Toast's timeless designs that are currently on my wishlist.

Investing in quality knitwear is far more worthwhile than filling your wardrobe with lots of pieces that might only last a season. Natural fibres such as wool, cashmere or cotton are much more breathable than synthetic alternatives, which will regulate your temperature. And natural fibres can last just as long as synthetic pieces; I have owned my Orla sweater for almost six years, and it barely changed since I bought it. That's exactly why brands like TOAST are worth knowing.

Other brands which prioritise using natural fibres in their knitwear include Brora, With Nothing Underneath, Boden and even some high-street favourites including Uniqlo and COS. It's always worth checking the composition of fabrics when buying a new jumper or cardigan.

Want to feel put-together yet warm enough to brave the cold? A knitted dress is the answer, and Cat Deeley has highlighted the prettiest style from British clothing brand Rixo, wearing a collared dress paired with warm tan knee-high boots and gold bangles on This Morning.

This time of year, you might be looking to refresh existing wardrobe staples, and we need dresses that deliver on style and practicality. Cat wore the cream Matiah dress made from mohair wool and cashmere for a breathable, ultra-soft feel.

Cat finished the look with neutral suede heeled boots from Gianvito Rossi that feature a long over-the-knee cut and a stiletto heel, before accessorising with gold-tone bracelets from Zara. The midi-length and long-sleeve design of her dress make it perfect for chilly outings. Layer up with a tailored wool coat, and you have a cold-weather-ready smart-casual outfit.

Investing in a couple of knitted dresses will make getting dressed in the winter so much easier. They offer the comfort and warmth of your best jumper, but with the added benefit of being a complete outfit. Wear with knee-high boots, or layer up with tights and style with loafers or trainers. For a smart finish, add an oversized blazer in a dark neutral shade like chocolate brown, navy or charcoal grey.

Cat's dress is a lovely reminder that Rixo also has fabulous everyday pieces as well as elegant designs for special occasions. From statement blouses that can be tucked into jeans to dresses like this one that can be styled for both day and evening. The brand has also just launched a collaboration with Clòimh, offering Fair Isle knitted accessories that are perfect for winter.

If you're wondering if winter is only for the summer, winter white is certainly a trend that stylish women return to year after year. Evocative of frosty mornings and snowfall, wearing white and cream in winter can be extremely elegant. Like Cat, just make sure that the fabric you've chosen makes sense for the season; it's why white cosy knits are so dominant at this time of year.

When it comes to winter investment pieces, a reversible coat makes a lot of sense, as you get two looks for the price of one. And Emily Atack just showed off one of the very best with a Damson Madder design.

The actress shared a selfie via Instagram, in which she was wearing a Jerry Cropped Reversible Trench by the popular British clothing brand, and it’s making me want the highly coveted outerwear more than ever.

This particular piece went viral last year and continues to sell out repeatedly. A timeless design that strikes the perfect balance between heritage and preppy cool. The boxy silhouette can be reversed, offering a deep khaki or a bold blue check, and there is an oversized detachable scarf which can be worn in multiple ways.

Emily proves that this best-selling coat still feels relevant for the current autumn/winter trends 2026. But if you are as tempted as I am, don’t hang around, as it is still very much in favour with the style set, and it really does seem to fly off the rails every time it is restocked.

The Damson Madder trench has a high-meets-low vibe, meaning it can work for a number of occasions. I would wear it over a cable knit jumper and wide-leg jeans for the school run or with tailoring for a day at the office.

The block khaki colourway will buddy up well with lots of prints and colours too, and although the blue plaid side is a little busier, it still feels timeless and will team nicely with everything from tweed to stripes.

Whether you opt for the same reversible piece as Emily or one of the similar styles above, a classic cover-up complete with contrast trims will make a wise addition to any autumn capsule wardrobe, and I guarantee you'll be wearing it on repeat.

Festive adverts are popping up on television left, right and centre, plus the weather has turned a whole lot colder. Suddenly it seems we're hurtling towards Christmas, which calls for a wardrobe refresh if you ask me.

No doubt you need a few key pieces for the season ahead, but you don't want to fork out a fortune, right? Well, Christmas has come early at Next, and the British clothing brand's affordable new in collection is full of plush velvet, cosy knitwear and elegant coats to get you into the spirit of things.

While it's tempting to head straight for sequins and velvet at this time of year, some of the best Christmas outfits are the ones that don't feel obviously festive. A great knit paired with tailored trousers, velvet paired with denim or a subtle sprinkling of statement accessories can feel just as special as a dress. What I particularly love about shopping at Next is you really can get a lot for your money. It's a great place to look for trend-led pieces to give your wardrobe a new lease of life, while still staying practical.

Whether you're searching for the perfect Christmas party outfit or need some new wardrobe additions to brighten up the colder months, I'd recommend taking a look at what's just landed online at Next. As well as the own-brand designs, you can also shop labels like Love & Roses and Lipsy, and you'll find plenty of gifting options for Christmas, too.

As we head into cooler climes, colourful statement coats are everywhere. The trend signals it might be time to ditch classic black outerwear for something a little more playful, though Clodagh McKenna proved you can keep things neutral and still get bold style thanks to her beautiful Sézane coat.

She wore Sézane’s Clyde coat over Massimo Dutti’s wool blend knit turtleneck sweater and a pair of burnt orange dungarees for an appearance on This Morning last week, and finished off her look with Penelope Chilvers’ Cassidy suede cowboy boots.

The coat’s pattern in a beige and moss colourway played perfectly into the heritage look dominating autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026, with the neutral tones complementing the bolder hues in her outfit. This gloriously smart casual outfit echoed Clodagh's country-coded style beautifully, and the corduroy dungarees gave a nod to winter's favourite denim alternative.

Brands have leaned heavily into checked prints this season, covering everything from knits to some of the best trench coats updated with plaid or herringbone patterns.

But this trend is timeless, synonymous with the autumn/winter season, meaning that whatever you buy now, especially in neutral hues, will be wearable next year too. And it’s this muted colour palette that makes Clodagh's printed coat so versatile. Whether it’s layered on over denim or worn as part of simple autumn outfit ideas, it delivers style and practicality.

Like Clodagh, you can slip a statement coat over some of the season’s more daring tones, like fire engine red or cerulean, or keep things more neutral by styling it alongside the autumn/winter brown colour trend that’s dominating autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026, as well as creams, khaki, black or navy.

The Great British Bake Off is in full swing, and alongside the soggy bottoms and cake-based drama, I'm always excited to see what Alison Hammond and Nigella Lawson are wearing each week.

The stylish pair have ticked off all kinds of trending looks this series, including sharp blazers and some hero Boden buys, but for Tuesday’s episode, the pair opted for something a little bolder.

Alison looked incredible in a Scamp & Dude Leopard Ray Blouson Sleeve Midi Tea Dress, which featured a neon take on classic leopard spots, while Nigella opted for a polished ME+EM blazer and T-shirt combination in fuchsia. Both stars showed off joyful brights in very different ways, but each served up a big slice of style inspiration for anybody looking to brighten up winter outfit ideas.

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How to wear brighter shades this autumn/winter

Both celebrities looked fantastic in their cheerful ensembles, proving that there are plenty of ways to introduce bold shades to your autumn capsule wardrobe. Hot pink in particular has been name-checked as part of the autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026, giving your look extra direction.

If you love a punchy print, follow Alison's lead with a fancy frock in multiple colours, or to give flashy hues a more grown-up spin, opt for tailored separates like Nigella. Whichever way you wear pink, you can easily tone down the colour with simpler accessories like your best white trainers, or a pair of flesh-toned pumps. Or use a denim jacket or wide-leg jeans to create some balance to a colour pop top.

The John Lewis Christmas advert signals the start of the festive season and, for its 20th year, Dame Kristin Scott-Thomas stars in a heartwarming story about rediscovering the joy of gifting. Not only has it got us in the Christmas spirit, but the fabulous outfits have caught our attention, too.

Capturing the Christmas Eve arrival of family and grandchildren, Kristin dazzles in a smart-casual outfit perfect for festive gatherings. Combining a cream cashmere Jigsaw knit with eye-catching gold wide-leg trousers by Ralph Lauren, could this outfit be any more glamorous for the season ahead?

Later seen on a gifting mission, Kristin adds a navy wool Aligne coat, a paisley neck scarf, and a burgundy Mulberry Eliza Tote bag for a luxurious yet practical finishing touch.

Shop Kristin Scott Thomas' John Lewis Christmas advert looks

Kristin Scott Thomas: Christmas Day outfit

The final look is the real showstopper. On Christmas Day, she's seen in a beautiful dark green kimono-sleeve top and matching pleated skirt, both by Weekend MaxMara. Styled with satin bow-detail court shoes and a gold textured bangle by Tutti, this look is a fabulous choice for a range of occasions, from a work party to New Year's Eve celebrations, and everything in between; the relaxed fit adds comfort.

We also spotted that the daughter in the Christmas advert is wearing a dress from the recent Rixo X John Lewis collaboration. The Lucy pure silk maxi dress features a vibrant floral print set on a black background, making it work from winter celebrations well into spring and summer.

Kristin Scott Thomas said, “I simply couldn’t resist the opportunity to lead a John Lewis Christmas advert - it's such a cherished part of the festive season. Plus, Gloria’s journey captured my heart straight away. She represents so many parents and grandparents who want nothing more than to create lasting memories with the younger generation. Working alongside Pickles to create the ‘Gran Cave’ was an absolute joy, and I hope the ad brings a big smile to families across the UK this Christmas.”

When two of our favourite British clothing brands collaborate, we’re paying attention. And so is Lisa Snowdon, who just wore one of the standout pieces from the new Monsoon x Queens of Archive collection.

Paired with black skinny jeans, tucked into brown, Holland Cooper knee-high boots, Lisa showcases how easy the Monsoon x Queens of Archive Lila tie-neck leopard print blouse​ is to style with wardrobe staples.

One of the key autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026, leopard print rarely falls out of fashion's favour, but it is one of the named animal patterns for the months ahead, and Lisa's elegant blouse is ideal for AM to PM dressing.

Jeans tucked into boots is a style winner when it comes to winter wardrobes, and Lisa Snowdon capitalises on this timeless formula with the addition of trending shirt. The recent Monsoon x Queens of Archive collection has been a huge hit and leans heavily into both brand's penchant for bohemian, vintage styling.

Lisa gives her pretty boho blouse a modern feel thanks to her skinny jeans and luxe knee-high boots, two capsule wardrobe heroes that are easily to reinvent season, after season.

A key trend for the season ahead, Lisa Snowdon's printed blouse is the sort of directional piece that won't fall out of favour at the end of the season. Leopard is a style staple, with many fashion experts hailing the wild cat print as a neutral, in part thanks to its timeless brown and beige colour palette.

Opting for a voluminous sleeve and statement neckline, Lisa expertly balances the volume at the top of her look with a much more slender bottom half, thanks to black skinny jeans, tucked into sleek knee-high boots.

A fantastic outfit formula for the days and weeks ahead, this stylish trio of pieces can easily take Lisa from the morning to relaxed dinner reservations, making for a really versatile ensemble.

The weather is noticeably colder now, and I'm beginning to see people bundling up in winter hats and scarves. I'm ashamed to admit that knitted accessories tend to be an afterthought in my wardrobe - I make sure I get my boots and coat sorted (this year it's the Rixo Milly leopard coat for me), then chuck on any old hat and scarf to keep out the cold.

This time around, British clothing brand Rixo has teamed up with a brand called CLÒIMH (it's pronounced cl-oy, and the word means wool in Scottish Gaelic) to put a playful twist on traditional fair isle. The result is a limited collection of hats, scarves, mittens, and gloves that's not only perfect for Christmas gifting, but also makes me excited to layer up. Your knitwear will be the star of the show!

Each piece is crafted from 100% merino wool in Scotland at a female-founded factory. According to CLÒIMH, the collaboration brings together two brands "with a shared appreciation for colour, craftsmanship and considered design."

The collection is available online now, and prices start at £75 for a pair of fingerless gloves. These are winter warmers you won't throw in a drawer and forget about - you'll treasure them forever!

Shop RIXO x CLOIMH

CLÒIMH founder Hollie Mercedes Peters said of the collaboration, "I’ve always loved how Rixo has a really distinctive identity, with a strong sense of personality and an appreciation for vintage references, colour and print. There’s a playfulness to the brand, but the pieces still feel timeless and wearable, which really resonates with how I approach designing for CLÒIMH.

"Although our products are different, I think we share a similar appreciation for pieces that feel special but become part of your everyday wardrobe. I loved the idea of bringing Rixo's expressive approach to print together with CLÒIMH’s focus on beautiful natural materials and considered accessories. It felt like an opportunity to create something that was true to both brands, rather than simply putting our names together."

It’s almost time to start saving the looks that will inspire our festive party outfit, and Emma Willis has just taken the top spot wearing one of the best trouser suits during Strictly Come Dancing’s Halloween weekend.

Emma and her stylist Leah Binnall created a striking look for the occasion, pairing Bella Freud’s David trouser pinstripe with a matching pinstripe blazer to create a sharp and chic look.

Layered underneath the jacket was a silk Minnelli shirt by Bella Freud, with its pastel hue paying homage to the sugared pinks that are dominating autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026. The colour, alongside the silky fabric of the shirt, made it the perfect party-ready alternative to a crisp white button-up. And the black tie detail added a striking finishing touch (see Emma's look in image 2 below).

Trouser suits are a particularly great investment piece when building or expanding capsule wardrobes, especially as we look ahead to the upcoming party season – brands like M&S and Zara are already doing festive fashion early buys.

Styled with a silky shirt and some classic court pumps, a co-ordinated blazer and tailored trousers take out all the guesswork when it comes to pulling together polished party look. Don’t forget you can style suits as separates too; day-to-day, a two-piece can boast a more casual feel when styled with your best white trainers for an easy and elevated option when it comes to autumn outfit ideas.

Elsewhere over the weekend, Emma was spotted in a red Victoria Beckham gown. With long sleeves, a luxuriously draped skirt, and a bold red finish, if trouser suits aren’t your thing, Emma’s still the celebrity to turn to for party wear inspiration.

November is here, and with it comes Christmas prep. I've spotted high-street brands gently dropping festive fashion into new-in sections for the past fortnight, but with Halloween now out of the picture, we are firmly in twinkle season, so it's time to get ready.

Whether you've got a host of pre-25th of December events to attend, or family get-togethers for the big day itself, finding the ultimate festive fashion look is as important as the food shopping and gift purchasing.

Making me shout 'oooh, love that' on this cold Monday are the latest looks from M&S, who have gone for a subtle selection of twinkle, luxe fabrications and classic, reliable cuts to underpin your Christmas wardrobe. If you only need to make minor adjustments to last year's favourites, there are a host of affordable but directional accessories, ensuring there is something for every budget. Here are my favourites.

It might feel a little early to dive into sparkles and mulled wine, but generally I'm seeing all high street brands embracing Christmas fashion right now, and with a little over 50 days to the big day, it is time to start thinking about any events you have coming up, and what to wear to avoid those last minute sartorial dilemmas.

While getting 'Christmas-ready used to revolve heavily around twinkly dresses, I've definitely seen a shift towards more smart-casual silhouettes and a huge increase in trouser options, especially those that echo our favourite jeans, like barrel, wide and balloon legs. This is great news for those that prefer separates and trousers, and means you can often get greater versatility from your festive buy.

With lots of cost-effective buys, while there is a healthy dose of sparkle at M&S new-in, I don't feel like anything is overly sparkly, meaning you can certainly wear a lot of these pieces from AM to PM and can dress them up or down, making them even better investments for seasons to come.

Ruth Langsford just updated one of the most classic autumn outfit ideas with a leather shirt, using the sleek layering piece to totally transform her autumn pairing of jeans and a striped T-shirt.

In place of a heavy jacket, she styled her straight-leg, dark indigo jeans with the Ruth Langsford Faux Leather Shacket from her QVC collection. Although the tan version has sold out, it's still available in versatile black for half the original price. Working as a great alternative to leather jackets, it delivers the same warming feel and tactile finish but with a tailored fit that adds polish to her Breton top.

Ideal for the colder months, this sleek shacket offers a warm layer without feeling heavy. Whether you style it with your best white trainers or a pair of chunky ankle boots, you’ve got a cosy and elevated outfit to see you through winter.

Get Ruth's look

When it comes to finding the best autumn jackets to wear with jeans and classic tees, a leather-look shirt like Ruth’s is an easy and stylish choice. Worn unbuttoned, it can bring an evening-ready feel to smart casual outfit ideas and date night outfits, especially when worn with denim.

Tan and brown leather looks especially smart against denim, with any wash working alongside the rich neutral. Plus, thanks to its clean-cut straight design, a leather shirt or shacket can be styled with any trouser shape, so you can pair it with the best jeans for your body type.

It also helps that the tone is perfectly on trend this season, with chocolate brown standing out as one of the dominant autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026.

We love a fashion collaboration here at woman&home. When some of your favourite brands team up, it really does make each piece twice as good!

This time we're talking about Barbour, the royal-approved British clothing brand famed for its waxed jackets, and Farm Rio, the Brazilian company known for vibrant prints and bold colours.

Their third collection together has landed, and I think it's my favourite so far. It's called Tropical Greenhouse, and the 18 pieces are perfect for adding some much-needed colour to grey winter days. Print is very much at the heart of the collection, with a playful spin on Barbour's signature tartan featuring heavily. The rich brown and blue checks, alongside Farm Rio's tropical florals and banana motifs, are going to make layering up for cold days a whole lot more fun.

The outerwear is, of course, the star of the show. Whether you're after a waxed jacket or a quilted style, Barbour's iconic designs have been reimagined with Farm Rio's creative prints, while reversible gilets offer versatile layering options.

Shop Barbour x Farm Rio

Bringing together the best of British countryside style and Brazilian vibrance, this is a collection not to be missed. Prices start at £99.95 for a bucket hat and go up to £659 for a coat, but be warned the collection is likely to be popular, so don't spend too long wondering what to take to the checkout.

Jeans and a blazer never fail to impress, and Julianne Moore's recent take just reminded me why. She gives this classic formula an update with simple accessories that feel perfect for winter styling.

The actress added a touch of sharpness to her laid-back denim, by pairing straight-leg jeans with a dark, pinstriped blazer. This combination is perfect on days you want to feel put-together in a hurry, yet not overly formal. Underneath, she tucks a simple white T-shirt into her waistband, tying in with her white heeled boots.

But what really grabbed my attention is the vibrant red triangle scarf. Layered over her shoulders and slightly tucked into the lapels of her blazer, the tomato red shade really makes this look pop. Not only does the scarf's shade tie into the autumn/winter fashion colour trends 2026, but the piece itself taps into an accessory trend that we expect to see much more of this winter.

The bright red scarf is a lively contrast to the darker tones of her jeans and blazer, adding a little bit more personality to this outfit. It's a simple styling trick that can transform a blazer. It also demonstrates that triangle scarves or shawls don't have to be styled around your head or neck. Simply wrap around your shoulders and tie at the front, or you could use a safety pin to secure both sides under your jacket lapels.

Woman&home's December cover star, Lorraine Kelly is a woman after our own hearts, as she shares in this month's issue her love of high street fashion brands M&S, Zara and Boden. It's music to our ears that the presenter buys from the same shops that we do

Outside of everyday, she has a few trusted names for her TV appearances, including The Fold, because "they're very structured"; she reveals that she has a particular love for the brand's use of colour. For special occasions, she shops at British clothing brand Holland Cooper. "My mum had a Holland Cooper dress on for Rosie's wedding; I love that brand".

She sticks to Holland Cooper for investment pieces – including a tartan coat – that she hopes to pass down to her daughter Rosie too. "I bought a coat from them, which I’m going to pass on to Rosie, and Rosie is going to pass that on to Billie. It will last forever, so it's an investment piece." However, for everyday dressing, Lorraine's choices are much more accessible.

"Marks & Spencer are still pretty good. I like FatFace and I am also an ambassador for Bonmarché, who are great for when you need something practical. They’re affordable, so if I’m looking after Billie and we have a spill, it doesn't really matter."

Whilst she highlights Zara as one of her favourite brands to shop at, she jokes about her shopping experience in-store, admitting, "I don't like shopping in Zara because there is never anybody around, and I'm turning to my mother, going, 'Is anybody there?'"

Lorraine's approach to shopping and fashion is refreshingly realistic. Whilst she knows the value of buying investment pieces for more premium price points, she also understands the practicality of shopping on the high street, something we love to see!

Scarlett Johansson knows what she's talking about when it comes to shoes. I'm still in love with the cosy trainer/snow boot hybrid style by Sorel that she convinced me to buy a while back, and now she's just solved another footwear dilemma for me.

Pictured out in New York earlier this week, she wore the adidas trainers that think they're Mary Jane shoes. I've been seeing these so-called Samba Janes a lot in the last few months, but when styled with houndstooth wide-leg trousers, a chic grey coat and a skull scarf, I'm convinced this is the chicest autumn outfit idea I've come across.

White trainers have faded away a little in recent seasons, in favour of bright colours and suede textures. But this twist on a classic feels fresh - and incredibly practical, too. I don't know about you, but every time it starts raining, I realise I have very few shoes that are wearable in wet weather, but these might just fix that.

The Mary Jane strap brings a slightly more feminine feel to the traditionally sporty adidas Samba, and the streamlined shape of the shoe works beautifully with a looser trouser leg.

I'm a big fan of versatile shoes, and this is where the Samba Jane really will prove to be a great investment. Aside from wide-leg trousers, they'll look effortlessly chic with straight-leg jeans and chunky knitwear, or even with a printed midi dress.

They're a sturdier alternative to ballet flats, and you can, of course, wear them with socks, too. Just like Sambas, customers report that Samba Janes are very lightweight, plus the strap is adjustable, so you can find your perfect fit.

It feels like autumn has only just begun, but festive fashion is already waiting in the wings. With Christmas party season around the corner, the high street is already soft-launching its style offering, and honestly, buying early is one of my top tips. Our favourite stores are already drip-feeding sequins, gently pushing feathers and adding velvet and faux furs to new-in line-ups, and honestly, it's joyous.

Expect more in the coming weeks, but as the big day draws closer, it's easy to lose yourself to food shops and gift purchasing. Which is why I'm a big advocate for assessing your winter wardrobe now, taking stock of partywear from previous seasons and deciding on what you may want to add.

Of course, you don't need to buy a full new Christmas party look every season. If you have classic pieces from past festivities, you can easily update these with fresh accessories, a pair of shoes that nod to the autumn/winter fashion trends 2026, or some statement jewels, which means that your seasonal outfit doesn't have to break the bank. However, if you are on the hunt for something new, there are lots of lovely options too.

Lisa Snowdon was spotted embracing the chocolate brown trend in a longline winter coat, high-neck sweater and sturdy knee-high boots. We aren't just loving the rich tones of her look, but we also noted that she was head-to-toe in one of our favourite British clothing brands, Holland Cooper.

As we enter the latter part of the year, it's time to assess our wardrobe essentials, and investing in a cosy winter coat and smart leather boots is a must; Lisa highlighted two items worth adding to your wishlist.

Wearing Holland Cooper's The Great Coat from Holland Cooper in dark brown, she coordinated her full-length coat with the brand's Bridle boots, which feature a timeless equestrian style and luxurious gold hardware on the outer leg. We also love how she's styled the coat and boots – channelling Claudia's Traitors style with thick black leggings also from the brand alongside a burgundy knitted roll neck – the perfect formula for a countryside stroll.

Chocolate brown is one of the key autumn/winter fashion colour trends of 2026, from leather accessories to everyday essentials. If you are looking for ways to embrace this shade without overhauling your whole wardrobe, try introducing it in the form of outerwear or small accessories.

Knee-high boots in this rich shade are a wardrobe piece that you will never tire of, working with a range of outfits, from jeans to dresses. But it's not just leather goods that this hue works effortlessly for. Outerwear is a great way to introduce it into your looks. A cosy wool coat in dark mocha is a much more interesting alternative to jet black, yet just as versatile.

Is it too early to start planning for party season? Katie Holmes was spotted last week at a Frieze event in London in the most fabulous party outfit formula. Combining a statement midi skirt with dazzling sequins, a bright white shirt and silver heels, this couldn't get any better.

Sequins are naturally prevalent at this time of year, but if you've ever struggled to style them, Katie's look reveals one of the easiest yet most stylish ways to do so. She combines the now sold-out multi-coloured Marni skirt with an oversized cotton shirt, letting the eye-catching sequins take centre stage.

Tying into the shiny embellishments on the skirt, she opts for pointed heels in metallic silver. Then, for a practical finishing touch, she carries the Toteme T-Lock bag in black. If you are already looking ahead to your work Christmas party, or have an evening out with friends lined up, this smart-casual outfit is worth noting down.

This formula is actually surprisingly easy to recreate, so if you are someone who's always wanted to wear a sequin skirt but hesitated when it came to styling it, Katie's style blueprint is easy to recreate.

The block-coloured shirt helps to make the sequins stand out whilst also grounding the look, and we can't help but love the oversized silhouette of it too. Sequin skirts are not only for the festive season, but come summer, you'll be able to whip them out and style them with lightweight T-shirts and sandals too for a chic alfresco dinner look.

Of all the outfits Claudia Winkleman has worn on this series of The Celebrity Traitors, I think this might just be my favourite. If there's one wardrobe staple that never really goes out of style, it's a leather jacket, and Claudia just showed us the freshest silhouette for autumn/winter 2026.

Her oversized leather jacket is by Saint Laurent, and I love the voluminous sleeves, front panel and buckled hem. When paired with her go-to Spanx leggings, a striped shirt by Darcy Clothing and a pair of Saint Laurent ankle boots, it's a rock n roll take on Claudia's usual countrycore Traitors style.

If you've got £5k burning a hole in your pocket, you can buy Claudia's exact luxe leather jacket, but otherwise, I've found faux leather lookalikes from as little as £45. It's an effortless way to update your favourite jeans and trainers, or you could pair your oversized leather jacket with tailoring for a more polished look.

Forget the fitted, cropped leather jackets we used to wear on repeat. Did everyone have that Topshop one with the quilted panels on the sleeves? This time around, it's all about roomy shapes, which have the added bonus that you can layer your favourite cashmere jumpers underneath, too.

Elsewhere in what was a very dramatic episode, Claudia wore a tinsel-embellished shirt and trousers by Stella McCartney for the roundtable, which certainly put us in the mood for the festive season.