The Art of the Seasonal Switch: Making Your Autumn/Winter Wardrobe Work Harder

Just as the days start to feel a bit chillier and the nights begin to draw in, we may find ourselves reaching for a knit or a hoody more frequently. With the impending arrival of autumn, August offers a golden opportunity to refresh your style, without a full wardrobe overhaul.

Re-style, don't replace

You’ve already got gems in your wardrobe. A summer dress becomes brand-new when layered with a slouchy blazer or chunky jumper, or paired with colourful tights and ankle boots.

Light blouses and shirts work beautifully tucked into tailored trousers or layered beneath a structured coat. That winter coat from last season? Add a vibrant scarf or invest in a new handbag to update the look.

Invest in a couple of key pieces

Rather than chasing every new seasonal arrival, pick one or two thoughtful additions that elevate your look like a textured jumper, a statement pair of boots, or a warm scarf in on-trend colours.

On that note, deep jewel tones and earthy greens are key for A/W 2025, think moss green, sapphire and garnet, perfect for layering or as anchors in your outfits.

Also consider statement jumpers, whether with playful graphics, bold colours or art-inspired motifs; cosy and style-forward essentials for the season.

Embrace seasonal touches, not fads

This season’s trend direction is restraint. Designers are leaning into elevated tailoring, think broad shoulders, structured blazers and relaxed suiting which feels both polished and effortless.

According to Who What Wear, faux fur is having its moment too and not just as full coats, but as trims and accessories in rich tones like cranberry and emerald.

Accessories offer a gentle invitation to lean into trends without commitment. Oversized belts perhaps with a padlock or punk edge can cinch layers into shape and elevate familiar silhouettes.

Style with intention, not impulse

There’s no need to chase a “new season, new you” aesthetic. Instead, re-discover your existing clothes. Re-wear favourite pieces, re-style with creativity, and invest in quality over quantity.

When investing in new wardrobe pieces, opt for high quality fabrics like merino wool and organic cotton - they age well and will generally work season after season.

Confidence you can feel

Your autumn/winter style shouldn’t be dictated by fleeting trends, but discovered through how you want to feel in it. Maybe it’s cosy and confident, or fun with a rebellious spark. That’s the joy of mindful style that's authentic and personal rather than performative.

A quick seasonal styling checklist

• Pair summer dresses with jumpers and tights and pair lighter tops with a chunky knit.
• Add one or two fresh pieces in autumnal hues or interesting textures, like a statement jumper or structured scarf.
• Stick to quality fabrics that endure like tweed, merino wool, velvet, cashmere, cotton and linen.
• Avoid fads and instead, choose small touches that nod to trends without overhauling your wardrobe.

Late August doesn’t need to spark a spending spree. Instead, it’s the perfect time to gently shift your wardrobe into the new season by layering, styling, and refreshing what you already own.

A capsule of carefully chosen pieces, paired with thoughtful tweaks (don't forget your Holé Button Covers), goes a long way to ensuring your look feels on trend and completely you this autumn.