Let’s debunk an outdated fashion myth that spending a lot of cash on clothes will help you to look more fashionable.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 industry, it’s that having a healthy disposable income doesn’t automatically come with great style. You can shop on a shoestring budget (or perhaps not shop 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 and -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 2023, 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 texture everyone will be wearing 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 2023? A cute polo-collar neckline.
No doubt you’ll want to wear this sage shade with cream accessories.
Switch from sandals to chunky boots to work across all seasons.
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.
These jeans will work across all seasons for years.
It makes a welcome change from blue.
Style Notes: The blue Oxford shirt’s versatility knows no bounds—make like Lois and layer yours under a leather jacket and staple jeans for a chic day-to-day look.
No need to size up with this one.
Love this cobalt update.
Style Notes: If there’s on texture that’ll be everywhere for autumn, it’s lace. Whether you go for something statement-making like Camille or just opt for a simple trim, you’re about to see a lot of it.
You could add this underneath a slip dress.
Or wear with the matching midi.
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.
Lime and light wash denim always looks so good.
Topshop is killing it at the moment.
Style Notes: No doubt the classic beige trench coat will appear as soon as autumn is in the air, but look out for loose-fit, soft styles. Fuss-free with minimal details, you’ll throw it over any look just like Michelle.
The hood is the only detail you need.
This vegan suede style has that 70s edge Monikh loves.
Style Notes: This one piece knows no bounds. For summer it’s worn with sandals and not much else, come autumn, it’s all about adding savvy layers just like Lucy. She even has a spare layer thanks to the effortlessly cool waist-tie knit.
This looks just like Lucy’s.
Monki is definitely the destination for dungarees.
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 subtler, London dressers can’t get enough of one simple update: square toes.
These are a fail-safe option for any day of the week.
