One of the best things about the changing of the seasons is you’re given a golden opportunity to refresh your look – and now it’s time to prepare for autumn.
There’s something magic about that autumnal crispness in the air, seeing the first leaves change colour to vibrant reds, yellow and oranges and fall from the trees. These little signs from nature give us a nudge that it’s time for a change – and your wardrobe is a great place to start a revamp. Who knows where it may lead?
Here are our top tips for preparing your wardrobe for autumn so you can look good and feel good…
Declutter your wardrobe
Start by laying all your summer clothes out on the bed. Is there anything you haven’t worn? Is there anything you’ve found uncomfortable? Is there anything that is looking tired or damaged? Start a pile of clothes to either recycle, sell on – or give to a charity shop. Dedicate one pile to clothes you want to keep.
If you feel unsure whether to let go of an item of clothing, call on the wisdom of Japanese de-cluttering expert and author Marie Kondo. In her best-selling book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying, she says, ‘Choose things that spark joy when you touch them.’
Transition summer clothes
There’s no need to pack away all of your favourite summer clothes just yet, instead look for clever ways to layer outfits, afterall autumn weather is unpredictable. If it’s a bit nippy, rock a strappy dress with a cropped jumper, chunky cardigan or denim jacket – and boots. A scarf can update an outfit and can be handy if there’s a chill in the air – silk or cashmere will add a luxe feel. If you look to gently transition your wardrobe each season, this will keep your signature style on point.
Safely store summer clothes
One of the secrets to having a great wardrobe season after season is organisation. Once you’ve identified summer clothes you want to keep but don’t want to wear for autumn, carefully fold them and store in a vacuum-packed bag to save space. Place this in a fabric storage bag to keep under a bed or on top of a wardrobe. Avoid putting items of clothes in the loft just in case it gets too cold and damp in the winter, which could lead to mould.
Looking for new systems to organise your wardrobe? Organising gurus Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin of The Home Edit have published a new book: Stay Organised: The Ultimate Guide to Making Systems Stick.
New trends and old classics
A new coat is often a key purchase for autumn and you can’t go wrong with this classic Button Up Trench Coat by Fore, which is available in black and olive.
Gothic florals are still hot, and British Vogue hints Netflix hit show Wednesday (which has been renewed for a second season) may have given the trend a boost.
Red is tipped to be a hot colour for autumn, a move on from Barbiecore pink, which has been a popular shade for summer 2023. We love these red Side & Back Pocketed Tailored Trousers by Attentif, which will look sleek with heels and a little black top.
Update with accessories
Nothing says new season like a new handbag. In September, regardless of whether you’re still studying, there’s always a back to school vibe. A handbag update can make you feel like you’ve got a fresh start, with new compartments to store things, as well as giving tried and tested outfits a refresh.
Belts can change the silhouette of cardigans and dresses for a simple update. Experiment with skinny belts and corset style ones and see what works best for you.
Jewellery is another way to take a look to the next level. Trends for autumn 2023 include charms, beads, pearls, amethyst and petrified wood. Don’t be afraid to go big or bold.
We hope you have fun preparing your wardrobe for autumn with our tips.