I’m a Fashion Editor, and These 5 Transitional Trends Get My Stamp of Approval

After a scorching summer (with one or two spells of rain), we’re now heading into the seasonal shift that’s a little less “cocktails on the beach” and a little more about cosy layering and hunkering down. By now, your heatwave-appropriate clothing can take a little pause as we begin the fun journey of figuring out what to wear for a new season. If you’re also in need of a one-stop refresh, the place getting trans-seasonal dressing right is Karen Millen.

2022 has given us an array of trends so far, and thankfully, Karen Millen has found the chicest way to incorporate some of the biggest runway ideas into its offering. (Don’t worry—there are no painfully low-slung jeans in sight.) Confident, polished, and full of compliment-worthy pieces, the latest collection is getting me excited for the months ahead. And I’ll take any excuse to wrap up in some of these new-in gems, even if it means accepting the next big chill.

From reinvented classics to head-turning partywear, there’s a piece for every occasion. I’ve chosen five key trends that are available now at Karen Millen, so keep scrolling to see (and shop) all of the looks you need to know about this autumn.

If there’s anything slicker than sharp suiting, I’m yet to find it. No matter the weather, you can rely on tailoring to provide a luxe edge to any look. Knits become office-ready with a wide-leg trouser, a plain T-shirt is the perfect accompaniment to a suit, and a good blazer is probably the most worn piece in any wardrobe. So, whenever you find yourself wondering what to wear, the answer is almost always tailoring.

A pair of camel wide-leg trousers is just as versatile as your go-to pair of jeans.

Just when I thought suits couldn’t get better, I found this understated shade of khaki green.

Hot pink might be having a moment thanks to the Barbiecore trend, but refined blush is a timeless classic.

We had a good summer of fringing, tulle, and plenty of crochet, but autumn makes the most of two tactile fabrics you’re guaranteed to see year in and year out: leather and faux fur. Nothing says autumn like wrapping up in cosy layers, and it’s time to say goodbye to shorts and open shirts and step into leather trousers and faux-fur coats.

And just like that, I know exactly how to style leather trousers for the office.

Goodbye, biker jackets. This is the year of the blazer, and the grown-up way to do leather is a tailored cut.

Until the coldest winter months, a leather coat with shearling details is the perfect transitional piece, and it makes the most of two trends at once.

And when the temperature really drops, there’s no better feeling than curling up in a coat as fluffy as a cloud.

Autumn and winter belong to the trench. Actually, come to think of it, so do spring and summer. The ideal coat for transitional weather, a trench’s lightweight nature makes it the perfect layering piece when it’s cold and provides just the right amount of light coverage when it’s warm. If you don’t already have one in your wardrobe, it just might be the soundest investment you could make.

A contemporary take on the classic camel trench.

Act quickly to get this chic coat in sage green or chocolate brown. Once word gets out, it’s destined to be a best seller.

Swap cotton for leather for a grungier edge.

Now this is how to do a trench coat for the evening. The glossy, metallic finish is all the accessorising you’ll need.

As the seasons change, it’s time to trade in our light linen layers for something a little more substantial. The knit dress tops the list of easy-to-wear outfits that look put together and polished no matter the occasion. Just belt at the waist and add a boot, and you’re covered from desk to dinner.

Every so often, you find a dress that’s an across-the-board winner. No matter your shape, size, or age, this sleeveless knit is universally flattering.

This rich burgundy knit already looks expensive, but paired with matching boots, it’s a colour-blocking triumph.

There’s a preppy, vintage feel to this abstract dress.

Try plaid-meets-pleats with this directional take on the fine knit dress.

It’s time to up the ante ahead of party season with a particularly decadent trend that celebrates the joy of dressing up. Whether they’re adorning opulent historical plumes or Studio 54 ensembles, feathers have always symbolised showing up and showing out. This year, occasionwear is all about maximalism and movement.