Look, I know we’re still sweating through the tail end of summer, but if you’re anything like me, your brain is already three months ahead. Autumn is notoriously the undisputed heavyweight champion of dressing - the cold air and the glorious return of layering and, frankly, getting a head start on your wish-list is just smart planning.

Because there’s nothing worse than knowing exactly what you want come September, only to discover it’s sold out in your size. The smartest shoppers know that the time to start looking isn't when the leaves start falling, it's before the rush, when the new season pieces are still landing and you can actually be selective about what makes it into your wardrobe.

So, consider this your official cheat sheet for the weather ahead: seven pieces I'm bookmarking now, from the knit that will replace your tank top to the shoes that will carry you neatly out of summer and into autumn. These are the pieces worth getting ahead on because once September arrives, everyone else will be looking for them too.

The Neo Knit

Forget the plain crewnecks sitting at the back of your wardrobe. This season, knitwear is getting a little more interesting. Labels are dropping asymmetric hemlines, there's cool draping, and clever layering - pieces that take two seconds to pull on but look like you've spent considerably longer getting dressed. To style your knit, throw it over jeans or layer it over a shirt - it's essentially the shortcut to looking like you've hired a personal stylist.

The Macho Bomber

Nothing cuts through the sweetness of a pretty outfit quite like a ridiculously oversized jacket. This season’s bomber is exaggerated - think broad shoulders, billowy sleeves, and boxy fits. Slinging one over a delicate top adds some edge to a simple look. If you’re ready to invest, Entire Studios has done a brown version that feels perfectly sculpted. For a slick, timeless black option that looks twice its price tag, M&S is delivering high street gold. And if you want to experiment with the trend without breaking the bank, Topshop has totally nailed the affordable end of the spectrum with faux leather and nylon bombers that look vintage.

The Boho Moccasins

Before you reach for ankle boots, consider the moccasin. It's smart like a regular loafer, but still feels casual, making it one of those rare shoes that can take you from the last days of summer straight into autumn without looking like you’ve dressed for two different seasons. Wear them now with bare legs, then switch to jeans and trousers once it gets colder. & Other stories, Arket and Mango are good for more accessible versions, while G.H. Bass and Sebago have the heritage styles nailed. For something more elevated, look at Aeyde or Miu Miu.

The Funnel Neck

A good funnel neck is basically styling on autopilot. It frames the face and saves you from having to faff around with a scarf when the mornings get colder. And you’ll find it on trenches, bombers and leather jackets too. There’s a reason everyone at London Fashion Week a funnel neck jacket last season. COS, Mango and Zara are the obvious places to look, with Massimo Dutti and Reiss offering more polished versions. If you’ve been tempted by the style already, I wouldn’t expect it to disappear any time soon.

The Romantic Dress

The romantic dress doesn't have to disappear the second summer does. In fact, one of the easiest ways to build an autumn wardrobe is to take the pieces you already love and give them a new supporting cast. For instance, you can pair your floaty dress with a tough blazer, then add ballet flats or boots when it gets a touch colder.

The Do-It-All Tote

Naturally, an autumn reset requires a bag that can handle your actual schedule. Ditch the micro bags; we’re investing in leathers and massive styles that swallow your laptop, an extra layer, and your daily chaos without ever looking bulky.

The Look-At-Me Belt

When autumn dressing starts to involve layers upon layers, the quickest way to stop an outfit looking frumpy is to add a belt. A statement belt can pull a shirt in at the waist, or give a simple cardigan and skirt combination some definition - all in about ten seconds. And this season, you don't have to necessarily keep things simple. Look for big buckles, studs and statement hardware. The viral Celine pendant belt is a perfect example, while Versace is making a case for studded versions. Basically, if your autumn outfit feels like it's missing something, put a belt on it.

Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty writer, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie..

Main Image Credit: Getty Images

Latest news and content from graziadaily.co.uk

Message History

Delivery option(s)