When it comes to dressing for the Autumn/Winter season, the key to being stylish and savvy is to combine casual summer dresses with cosy knitwear, according to a team of stylists at Leicester’s John Lewis store.
Fashion experts Tina Lock, Alex Hardy and Bet Loft sat down with Pukaar Magazine to share some tips about what to wear this year, as the Autumn leaves begin to fall…
1. Grab a ‘Classic’ Coat
When it comes to choosing a coat this season, investing in a classic, ‘timeless’ style is the way to go revealed Tina. Although quilted coats and puffer jackets are big on the scene this season, so called ‘teddy coats’ are something she can’t resist…
“With something like a coat, you’ve got to think of it as a bit of an investment piece really.
“You want something that’s going to be quite classic, rather than just ‘of the season,” she explained.
“Teddy coats are quite versatile really. You can make them look glam or casual depending on what kind of style you’re going for, and if they’re quite a neutral colour, you can team them with pretty much anything.
“These are timeless really – something you can wear again and again. Plus they feel absolutely fabulous!”
2. Get Comfy
The footwear of choice for trudging through this year’s Autumn leaves, are UGG Boots, according to Bet, who pointed to a big resurgence in the style last Winter.
“These boots made a big comeback, so we think they’ll be big again,” she revealed. “I know they’re not for everyone, but I know a lot of young people are into the athleisure/streetwear look.
“However, we’re also seeing lots of chunky leather boots as well,” she added.
“When it comes to style, people are swaying more towards flatter styles, just because they’re easier to wear.
“Comfort is key, particularly after Covid and being stuck inside for so long. People got so used to living in loungewear that I think they want to incorporate that into their everyday wardrobe as well.”
3. Forget the Traditional Colour Palette
When it comes to colour this Autumn, we’re seeing a move away from more traditional colours like mustard and burgundy. Instead what we’re seeing is more vibrant hues and pastel shades, according to Alex.
“Colours that you might associate more with summer – that’s what we’re seeing at the moment – bold, bright knitwear, and also lots of pinks and lilacs,” she said.
“People are looking to make a statement, and wear something a little bit different.
“With everything that’s happened over the last few years, people just want to get out there and celebrate wearing clothes – the brighter the better I think!”
4. Love your layers
A big trend for this Autumn/Winter, is layering pretty dresses with chunky knitwear – something which is described not only as uber stylish, but also super sensible and savvy too…
“We’re seeing a lot of knitted vests and tank tops around this year, which are good to throw on over summer dresses to make them work for Autumn/Winter – that’s going to be a really big trend this year,” said Alex.
“People are trying to be a bit more sustainable and savvy with their fashion now, so it’s all about figuring out how you can make the most of your wardrobe and recycling items to make them work for the season,” she added. “Layering is key.
“Just add tights and chunky boots to complete the look.”
5. Accessories
It goes without saying that accessories are an absolute must for the Autumn/Winter season – super soft scarves, bobble hats and fur cuffed gloves are always welcome additions to the wardrobe at this time of year, and items guaranteed to make you feel all warm and fuzzy…
“Super soft textures are always quite big for Autumn/Winter because people like to feel cosy,” said Bet.
“I love a good bobble hat,” added Tina.
“I’ve got a grey mohair hat with silver sequins all over it and a big pom pom on the top, which I love wearing,” she went on the reveal.
“Whenever I see something like that, it makes me think of Bonfire Night – all cosy with just a touch of sparkle!
“I think there’s going to be a lot of sequins around this year,” she added.
“The key to looking good this season is just being yourself – with an added bit of zhuzh!”
For more tips for Autumn/Winter dressing, visit Alex, Bet and Tina in the personal styling department on the ground floor of John Lewis, Highcross.
