When you hear the phrase “basic” your mind might automatically go to “simple”, “underwhelming” or “played-out”, but as a fashion editor with a passion for finding hardworking staples, I’m determined to change the very definition of the word. For me, a balanced wardrobe is a healthy mix of the buzzy trends that set your heart racing, and the classic pieces that are the foundation of any well-curated closet. So, with an appreciation for versatile investments in mind, I started thinking about the season ahead and the pieces that are well worth your time and attention right now.
As ladylike elegance and the “demure” aesthetic are currently having a moment, there’s no better time than the present to start packing away our shorts and strappy tops in favour of the layering pieces that are a little more cold-weather ready. We had a great time over summer experimenting with micro hemlines, bold prints and embellishments, but now as we welcome autumn, I’m ready to fall back into slouchy knits, sharp tailoring and polished accessories with plenty of back-to-school energy. Ready to join me? Keep scrolling to see the brand new chic autumn basics that will go with everything you already own (and make them look even better). You can thank me later.
SHOP CHIC AUTUMN BASICS:
Arket
Double-Face Wrap Coat
I have a feeling this is could-be-designer coat is about to be a bestseller.
COS
Scoop-Neck Knitted Polo Shirt
Wear with everything from denim to tailoring.
DEMELLIER
New York Leather-Trimmed Suede Tote
I audibly gasped when I saw this delicious brown suede.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY
Annina Organic Wide-Leg Jeans
This shape looks so elegant with boots.
Abercrombie
Collared Cardigan
How to channel 90’s Gwyneth.
H&M
Double-Breasted Trenchcoat
The trench coat is the autumn staple we’ve been counting down to wearing again.
American Vintage
Fizvalley Cotton T-Shirt
Stop what you’re doing—this quality white tee deserves your full attention.
Massimo Dutti
Strappy Midi Slip Dress
Burgundy is about to be the colour trend of the season.
&Daughter
Enya Cashmere Cardigan in Dark Navy
Invest in a quality cashmere cardigan and you’ll wear it for years to come.
Trust me—a sleeveless knit will serve you well on milder days.
Aeyde
Belinda 50 Suede Ankle Boots
These are autumn in a boot,
Arket
Oversized Cotton Coat
This whole look is worth bookmarking for later.
Everlane
The Utility Curve Pant
You can wear ecru denim long past summer with the addition of a cosy knit.
Rise & Fall
Women’s Silk-Cotton Vest
Wardrobe staples like this ultra-soft tank will get worn all year round.
Dear Frances
Mary Jane, Patent Black
The prettiest shoes I’ve seen this week.
The Row
Half Moon Bag in Leather
I’ll never get tired of The Row’s bags.
Maeve
Faux Leather Jacket
Throw on over a white tee and jeans and voila, instant polish.
& Other Stories
A-Line Maxi Dress
This gives the little black dress a run for it’s money.
Free People
Molly Slim Trousers
We’re not back onto skinny jeans quite yet, but slim-line trousers tuck so perfectly into knee-high boots.
New Look
Wide Fit Black Leather-Look Strappy Kitten Heel Sandals
These look at least three times their price tag. A must for event season.
Reformation
Veda Reed Jacket
There’s something distinctly Parisian about this chic jacket, non?
ALIGNE
Betty Reversible Wax Coat
Wax jackets are currently trending RN.
Nobodys Child
Striped Easy Fit Crew Neck T-Shirt
Breton stripes come into their own in autumn.
Filippa K
Darcey Wool Trousers
I could happily live in Filippa K forever.
ALOHAS
Tb.490 Club Onix Cream Leather Sneakers
Not your average white trainers.
John Lewis
John Lewis Wool Blend Shepherd Cardigan
Such a charming shade of red.
Nobody’s Child
Cotton Rich Striped Funnel Neck Jumper
See what I mean about Breton stripes?
