September has welcomed the new season, and already we’ve been greeted by a series of damp days, cool mornings and grey skies. Naturally, it’s time to shift out of summer mode and turn our attention to autumn dressing.
Right now, many of us are compiling our new season wardrobes, searching for those staple pieces that feel elevated yet understated, ready to be the centre of an outfit (yes, I believe a great pair of jeans can be a head-turner) or a backdrop for trending pieces to be layered upon. And three brands that always excel in elevated wardrobe updates at more affordable prices are Zara, COS and H&M.
Heading into the new season, my style goals are set. I want to look polished and put-together, but with as little effort as possible. If that sounds similar to your own goals, then this edit should prove incredibly helpful. Creating refined looks with little thought comes down to refined design details, from silhouette to rich colour palettes. Right now, the autumn staples I already own are sitting in pride of place, but now I’m searching for a few new additions to make these staples feel fresh and sleek, and the new high street collections are making it easy.
Looking to Zara, H&M and COS, they’ve clearly heard our request. At Zara, finer details are making timeless buys look incredibly refined, from the cut of a jacket to the intricate embroidery of a long-sleeved blouse (and I’ve found one which is sure to sell out momentarily). At COS, signatures of the brand have returned, from its beloved knitwear with contemporary accents like funnel-neck designs to smart coats with a timeless appeal and, as always, exquisite tailoring. Finally, H&M rounds off the high street trifecta with a smattering of cosy knits in rich-looking shades and staple denim which will earn their keep in our wardrobes for many seasons to come.
Consider this edit your autumn capsule wardrobe, but with contemporary details and design twists that make each feel instantly polished. As the best pieces tend to move fast, scroll on to explore the elegant autumn wardrobe updates I’m snapping up from Zara, H&M and COS.
Shop the 9 Elegant Zara, H&M and COS Buys On My Wish List
This trench coat immediately went in my basket.
This whole look is exactly what I want to wear this autumn.
The perfect jeans to renew your denim collection.
If you told me this coat was a designer investment I’d believe you.
The neckline! COS’s knitwear is back, and better than ever.
From the shade to the pleats, these trousers look incredibly expensive.
It’s time to swap out sandals for refined loafers.
If you’re wondering which new in H&M buy is going to sell out first…
This supple suede skirt will take your basic tops to a whole new level.
Shop More New-In Zara, H&M and COS Buys
The kind of piece you’ll buy this season and wear for every year to come.
Sleek and cosy in equal measure.
Sleek shirts are going to be a staple for autumn evenings.
I love layering textures in the cooler months.
A core COS design, back to prove just how timeless it is.
Made from 100% cashmere.
White jeans are just for the warmer months. Layer into your autumn looks to break up darker shades.
Meet your new work tote.
The pretty top to style with jeans, skirts, tailoring and so much more.
COS’s tailoring never fails to impress the fashion crowd.
Another best-selling style back for another year. Watch out, this one tends to sell out fast.
When I want to look polished in an instant I always turn to a striped shirt and smart trousers.
This coat is designed to withstand the moving trends. Rewear it for years to come.
Zara’s denim collection is so strong right now.
For those looking for an injection of colour, look out for this royal purple—it’s about to be everywhere.
Accessories can take a look from good to great.
A light jacket for the autumn days.
