In case you missed it, September is just around the corner. Summer’s almost over, but I’m not sad. I have the new season, an autumnal wardrobe and Christmas to look forward to. Whereas the warmer months are all about swimwear, linen and floaty dresses, September is all about the back-to-school vibe. Although I’m no longer in school (nor do I have children who are), I still find myself looking out for a new uniform to match the new season.
After a long, lazy summer of ice lollies and napping, heading back into the office feels like the beginning of term. And with this sense of newness and opportunity usually comes a new wardrobe. Building on the “back to work” feeling, I always look out for key capsule pieces that I can layer according to the temperature and easily style for post-work events, drinks and dinners with friends. And out all my go-to brands, this season, I’m looking at Mango.
Mango’s autumn collection, Love What You Do, elevates office attire entirely. Made from a series of natural fibres and fabrics such as silk, cashmere and BCI cotton, every piece in the collection seems so much more expensive than it is.
If there’s one thing I can get excited about when talking about work, it’s workwear. Think tailored wide-leg trousers, oversized cotton shirts, cashmere, and loafers. I like the constraints of structured clothing, especially when my life is in chaos. If you’re seeking a work wardrobe that you’ll still wear when you’re out of office, look no further. Here are four simple outfit ideas that will help build a season of sharp, stylish ensembles.
Often dubbed as the duller of tones, grey has recently had a rebrand. Soft, wool tailored pieces can be made cooler with a waistcoat (a major trend for autumn/winter 22) and silver tones. This jewelled diamanté top worn below a high-neck tank gives just a glimmer of sparkle that suggests business in the front and all party in the back.
Top tip: If you’re a lover of colour, feel free to contrast grey with pastels. Soft pink and baby blue work just as well as black and white.
It’s not the first time we’ve inherited menswear principles when it comes to dressing. Think exaggerated proportions: baggy trousers, high shoulders and extra-large lapels. It’s as if you’re wearing your dad’s power suit from the 1980s.
Top tip: Don’t get your trousers tailored too short. Of course, nobody wants to be tripping up the escalator, but a baggier trouser is so hot right now.
A key lesson in building an autumnal wardrobe is how to layer. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton, silk or leather that mix textures and appear elevated but still allow you to breathe.
Top tip: Wear a trench over a blazer. It’s surprisingly cooler than a wool coat, you’re further protected from rain and, if you head out after work, there’s nothing cooler than a leather blazer and a red lip.
One of my all-time favourite winter silhouettes is top-heavy dressing. Be it an oversized high-neck jumper or a boxy blazer, enjoy the cosiness of a baggy, loose-fitted item on top, and complement it with bare legs or tights (depending on the temperature) for an ultra-flattering effect.
Top tip: If you want additional comfort, swap the heels for knee-high boots.
Want to see more Mango pieces to wear to the office and beyond? Browse here.
