At the start of every new season, there are always certain non-negotiable basics I know I’ll be wearing in the coming months regardless of what the trends are. In winter, the list includes a warm coat and lug-sole boots. Spring might involve some new dresses and sandals, summer always requires a trove of white tops and basic linen, and autumn, of course, comes with its own set of essentials—all of which you’re about to read about below.
While the 2021 trend agenda has plenty of fun and directional looks to play with, I think the key to having a successful autumn wardrobe is being able to balance out the more of-the-moment pieces with an edit of never-date basics. This will ensure every outfit you wear feels timeless and not too trend-specific.
I like to keep on top of my basics, only replacing them when required. But to help you assemble your own edit of reliable autumn basics, I’ve chronicled them for you below. To see my must-haves in action, I’ve called upon some of my fashion friends for help, as they perfectly demonstrate the importance of autumn basics with their flawless outfits. Scroll on to see them and to shop my picks for each category along the way.
Style Notes: The cardigan’s massive comeback is probably my personal favourite of the last several years. Go for thick cable-knit for a classic take or a sleek collared number that feels very now.
Style Notes: I simply cannot wait for the summer heat to die down and get myself into a pair of rigid cotton jeans this autumn. Straight-leg is my personal preference, but as long as you opt for never-date blue hues, any jeans style can be considered classic.
Style Notes: Everyone should own a classic (and/or fashion-forward) trench, and if you’re going to buy a new one, there’s no better time than just before the start of autumn, when the best are still in stock.
Style Notes: Because there’s really no better category of shoes, am I right? While heeled boots are just as sleek, it’s flat boots I can’t live without during the fall months.
Style Notes: Dress trends come and go, but knit styles will always be relevant in the colder months of the year. My only requirement when shopping for them is that they pair well with boots and mules.
Style Notes: If you’re going to buy a new bag for the coming season, it should really be one of the shoulder variety. Not only are they still very popular, but they also allow you to keep your hands tucked into your pockets in the chill. Right now, I’m quite taken with slouchy styles.
Style Notes: Leather is to autumn what linen is to summer, and I love thinking up new ways to wear it. Leather blazers currently dominate my wish list.
