Autumn Fashion Essentials *

AD] Anyone else excited by the fact that it’s nearly cold enough to throw on knitwear, tights and boots again? I know I am! It’s no secret that Autumn (or ‘Fall’) is my favourite time of year, from Autumn fashion to warming drinks (mines a soya hot chocolate) and of course Halloween. It really is the perfect time of year.

As the new season approaches I’ve been thinking a lot about my personal style. Trying to determine what my style actually is and mixing up my wardrobe from the Autumn and Winter months.

It first started with my CBT sessions actually. Side note, unless you follow me on Twitter, you may not know that I’ve recently completed a course of CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) for social anxiety and agoraphobia. With one of the techniques being exposure. This included getting me being comfortable going into clothes shops alone again (among other things). Hence starting to learn about my personal style.

I’ve spoken a few times about overhauling my wardrobe and buying clothes that suit my lifestyle, and the more I declutter, and try on clothes, the more I’m beginning to understand what that looks like. If you’re looking for a good place to start defining your personal style, I’d highly recommend Victora’s style posts. I’ve learnt a lot from her.

With this wardrobe cull I ended up donating two bags full of clothes to a local charity shop!

Autumn Fashion Essentials

Dresses – especially when they’re worn with tights, a leather jacket and boots!

During the Summer months I found I own a lot of jeans but not much else as far as trousers are concerned. This proved problematic with the hot weather we had this year, I was melting(!) and spent a lot of my time in dresses instead. That’s one of the things I discovered or should that be rediscovered… I like wearing dresses.

Leather Jackets

You knew this one was coming, right? I pretty much live in my leather jacket throughout Autumn (and early Spring). Their perfect for dressing up a casual outfit or to go from work to a night out with the girls. As previously mentioned, you’ll usually see me wearing mine with a dress and tights.

Boots!

Nothing says Autumn like a nice pair of boots, am I right? There are many different styles you can try but the most popular tend to be ankle boots (booties), which are perfect for transitioning from the Summer and knee-high styles, which are great for Winter. Although I’m loving the mid-calf trend which I feel is the best of both worlds.

If anyone can recommend nice pair of black booties that don’t have a HUGE gap at the top, I’d be very greatly. I have very skinny legs at my ankle.

Pumps

OK, not an Autumn Fashion essential per say, but there’s never a bad time of year to reach for a pair of pumps*. Their classic for a reason and go with almost anything in your wardrobe. They’re also a good option when you want something a little dressier or it’s still too warm for boots.

If your looking for a good base to start with try black pumps* or beige pumps* as good neutrals, of course you can mix this up with different fabrics, patterns and styles. My go-to this time of year is a pair of Mary Jane style pumps which I can see myself adding to my usual dress, tights, leather jacket combo.

Cardigans

There’s nothing cosier or comfier than throwing on a chunky cardigan (or jumper) this time of year. Cardigans are the ultimate layering essential and I have multiple styles and shades in my wardrobe, they’re great for pairing with neutral outfits to add a splash of colour.

Jeans

I love jeans all year round but when it comes to Autumn and Winter I favour skinnier styles, think skinny or straight legged jeans that can be easily tucked into boots. As for colours, I love a dark wash or burgundy / plum.

Scarves

Scarves are the perfect way to add a bit of colour and intrigue to an otherwise neutral outfit. From patterned (hello tartan!), solid colours and even geeky designs, there are so many different ways to style this particular accessory.

What are some of your Autumn Fashion Essentials?

* This was a collaborative post.