Barely have we filled our summer wardrobes then it is time to start looking ahead to autumn, and deciding which of the biggest catwalk trends we’ll be choosing to translate into a more wearable form. Such is the nature of fashion, and while your heart might still be with this season’s tailored shorts, getting prepared for later in the year is no doubt something you’ll thank yourself for later.
Autumn is one of the most exciting seasons for fashion, lending itself to experimental layering and often marking the return of some of our favourite timeless trends. From leather jackets to slim-fit suits, houndstooth coats to leather brogues, the world’s leading designers have virtually always got a new twist on one of our tried and tested looks, and this year is no different.
Here, we take a look at five autumn fashion essentials to add to your capsule wardrobe to go with any of the new season trends. These classic pieces won’t just see you through this autumn, but many more to come – the key is to go for quality over quantity, and the rest will take care of itself.
The basic white tee
It might sound like a rather obvious choice – and some might say, a bit boring. But the basic white t-shirt is the foundation of numerous well put-together autumnal looks, and without one, your wardrobe won’t be nearly as versatile.
It might be a basic garment, but that doesn’t mean just any white t-shirt will do. Head to your favourite designer boutiques for the finest fit and most impeccable of designs. The classic white tee pairs perfectly with just about everything – from dressed-down denim to sleek tailored trouser-and-blazer combos. As adept in creating the off-duty look as it is a suave work-friendly look or evening get-up, treat yourself to several in different necklines and sleeve lengths to suit all eventualities.
The leather jacket
Autumn is layering season, which is the perfect excuse to fill your capsule wardrobe with timeless jackets. If you pick just one, make it a classic leather bomber, which is stylish yet versatile enough to go with everything. For something a little edgier, opt for a leather biker to nail the rock-inspired look. Simply throw on over your white t-shirt and add jeans and boots – or wear over your shoulders with smart black jeans and a crisp white shirt for a modern twist on sartorial style.
Quality genuine leather jackets aren’t hard to find – simply head to a specialist or trawl your favourite designer boutiques for impeccable quality and a guaranteed great fit. A good leather jacket like this one from Pala Leather will last you for years to come, so it’ll be more than worth the splurge.
The camel knit
Luxurious knits come into their own from autumn onwards, and camel is officially the colour of the season. Pairing perfectly with the season’s typical monochrome and denim colour scheme as well as some richer, moodier hues, invest in a super-soft wool and cashmere mix sweater for the perfect new-season cover up.
Perfect with jeans and brogues or under your classic leather jacket, it’s another piece that lends itself to a variety of different looks. Camel is a colour that suits almost every complexion, too, making it an essential addition to your autumn wardrobe.
The black blazer
A classy way to dress up any look, the black blazer has shown its true potential in recent years. Once limited to slim-fit, long-sleeved styles that were worn only at the office, today’s looser, slouchier, ruched-sleeve iterations look perfect thrown on over jeans and a t-shirt for a smart daytime look, yet still lend themselves to more dressed-up looks by adding a stylish yet sophisticated edge.
For a blazer you’ll never want to let go of, consider having one custom made to ensure the perfect fit. There’s nothing like overly-long sleeves or a poor cut to spoil a look, and with a made-to-measure garment you’ll eliminate the risk.
The chunky ankle boot
A chunky ankle boot is one of the most versatile footwear choices you could possibly add to your wardrobe. In fact, we’d go so far as to say it would be almost impossible to find an outfit they didn’t look good with.
Opt for simple black leather and a thick sole for a style that is comfortable and easy to wear as well as looking good. It’s true that a man can never have too many shoes, but this is one style that has all bases covered.
