One week you’re in sandals and t-shirts, the next you’re hunting out your boots and throwing on a sweater!
But here’s the thing: you don’t need to start from scratch each time the season changes. With a few smart swaps, you can ease your wardrobe into autumn without the stress.
All-season colours
Some colours stand the test of time, making it easy to pull them out year after year and still feel current.
The stand-out colour making its early autumn entrance this year is burgundy. But let’s be honest — burgundy isn’t new. I’m betting you’ve already got something in this shade tucked away in your wardrobe.
I featured it in past seasonal updates, and back in AW23 I bought a satin bias-cut burgundy skirt — a piece I’m still wearing today. (If you missed it, you can revisit my post: Autumn Spotlight trend: Styling the bias cut midaxi satin skirt).
That’s the point — some shades come back again and again, and if you choose wisely, they’ll earn a forever spot in your wardrobe.
Burgundy and pink is one of my favourite pairings, and it’s one you’ll see everywhere on the high street right now — from & Other Stories, Boden and New Look, to Asda. Knowing your colours will help you choose well, so you get more wear out of your clothes.
Traditionally, burgundy sits in the medium-to-deep range of colours, so if your features are lighter, it can look a little overpowering worn close to the face. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out — think winter berries and wines instead. Shades like maroon, mahogany, aubergine, damson and plum offer plenty of choice. Whatever the name, the trick is to find the tone that works for you.
Transitional pieces
Before you pack away your summer wardrobe, look at what can carry you into autumn.
Transitional pieces are all about layering. Lightweight vests and t-shirts can be worn under knits, while textures like suede, leather and wool instantly bring an autumn feel.
Adding a ‘third piece’ — a blazer, jacket or waistcoat — can transform your summer dress into an autumn-ready outfit. Take my satin skirt: when the weather cools, I’ll style it with a fine knit jumper, thick tights and boots. Simple swaps like these give your wardrobe more mileage.
Trendy or Stylish
Every new season brings fresh trends, but that doesn’t mean you need a whole new wardrobe.
Before you rush out to buy the latest “must-have,” ask yourself:
- Does this work with other items I have already?
- Will it flatter my body shape and fit my proportions?
- Is it a complimentary colour for me, or am I going to have to try and make it work?
- Does it fill a gap I’ve identified in my wardrobe?
- Am I buying it just because it’s everywhere?
Being stylish isn’t about having more — it’s about making informed choices. Sometimes a small tweak is all you need to refresh your look. (If you missed it, take a look at my post: Sustainable September: autumn wardrobe tasks).
When you know your best colours, cuts and fabrics, it’s easier to build a wardrobe that works. Transitioning between seasons suddenly feels effortless.
And if you’d like an expert eye, my Autumn/Winter 2025 Seasonal Update Guides will be available from 1 October. Join the waitlist and you’ll get discounted early access five days ahead of everyone else. Register here by selecting ‘seasonal updates’.
This autumn, choose wisely and you’ll be reaching for your favourites year after year.