Let’s debunk an outdated fashion myth that spending a lot of cash on clothes will help you to look more fashionable. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in the 12+ years I’ve worked in this crazy industry, it’s that having a healthy disposable incoming and great style aren’t mutually exclusive. You can shop on a shoestring (or perhaps not at all) and still have more style in your little finger than someone who has the bandwidth to spend four-figures a month on new pieces. This is why I always advocate for the high street, too. I’ve found some of my most-worn, -complimented, -borrowed clothes and accessories on the high street, which further proves my point—budget isn’t everything.
London’s chicest dressers are embracing autumn in all its glory.
So, if you too shop lean or want to limit your spend, but also want to look the fashionable part for autumn/winter 2022, I’ve rounded up eight affordable trends I’m already seeing my favourite London fashion people wearing for the season ahead. From the update to knitted dresses that makes them feel fresh to the accessory that will help transition your summer wardrobe into autumn, scroll down for your new-season, frugal fashion fix.
Style Notes: Knitted dresses are an autumn style mainstay. The detail that makes them feel 2022? A cute polo collar neckline.
This also comes in biscuit and teal.
This will pair just as well with chunky knee boots.
Style Notes: Jeans trends come and go, but it seems barrel-shaped legs, which I first clocked back in spring, are sticking around for the cooler months, too.
The front seams on this pair make for an interesting denim detail.
White jeans needn’t be reserved for summer.
Style Notes: The blue Oxford shirt’s versatility knows no bounds—think outside the box like Fisayo and layer yours under corset tops and strapless dresses for a new take on the staple.
No need to size up.
An easy addition to your next Zara order.
Style Notes: Blazers are a must-have in the wardrobes of Brit girls as they make for a chic toasty layer you can pop over anything, from slip dresses to ruffled blouses. Now, things are going rainproof with faux leather finishes.
This olive green hue will suit those who prefer to wear colour.
This style is already perfectly oversized.
Style Notes: Second-skin tops—tight, often mesh, long-sleeve, high-neck tops—keep cropping up on my feed. Look to bright hues and off-beat prints that’ll make even your most basic jeans-and-boots outfit feel so cool.
Weekday and Monki always deliver on second-skin tops.
I love this landscape print.
Style Notes: Leopard print might have been all over the autumn/winter 2022 runways but, on the streets of London, it’s zebra prints that are running wild. Réalisation Par might have kicked the trend off with its maxi, as seen on Monikh, but the high street hasn’t paused.
The sleeves!
Cutouts remain another major dress trend for autumn.
Style Notes: Too soon for a winter coat, but also starting to feel chilly? Make like Lucy and add a bright scarf into your outfit equation. Oh, and is that another leather blazer I spy? Coincidence? There’s no such thing…
This looks just like Lucy’s.
Kelly green tones are still on the first page of the 2022 style agenda.
Style Notes: It’s boot season, baby! Cowboy styles are trending in a big way right now but, if you’re after something a little more subtle, London dressers can’t get enough of one simple update: Square toes.
This M&S boot looks so premium.
Vagabond was one of the first brands to back square-toes.
