Despite the fact that you have probably worn only an eighth of your summer wardrobe this year, it’s already time to make the big switch over to your Autumn threads. As the season changes, it can often leave us in a state of flux as to what to wear. That’s why we’re sharing these easy Autumn fashion tips to help make a subtle transition that will leave you looking stylish with minimal fuss.

Blend heritage and quirkiness

The top ten colours for the season include shades of blue, yellow, orange, green, red, pink and brown, with shades ranging from an uplifting orange to a delicate pink and even a grassy green, with a mix that is playful yet practical, according to global trend forecasting and colour consultancy, Pantone.

So how does this Autumn fashion palette manifest itself into something for us real life, 40 somethings?

Sarah Heron, Personal Colour & Style Coach & Director at True Colours with Sarah Heron recommends ditsy floral prints which make the transition from summer to autumn easy. Simply add brown boots and a denim or biker jacket and you’re good to go. A fringed bag also adds a modern twist. Try adding a quilted jacket to a midi skirt for a new season twist with pumps or peep toe boots until cold tootsies demand a full on ankle boot. Meanwhile, a longline sweater in zebra print or a colour block topa are your perfect sidekicks for for cooler days.

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Make a statement with cut outs, faux fur and upcycled bags

Cut outs are big news this Autumn, according to Shazia Saleem, founder of Pop London fun, which champions of fun, sustainable, feminine fashion and original designer quality clothing and accessories. But if the idea of the cold shoulder or an exposed flank (in Autumn – HOW???!) leaves you inwardly shuddering then there is an elegant solution to work this trend – the keyhole! A keyhole top is a fantastic Autumn fashion staple that you can wear for both casual and elegant occasions. It is pretty, easy to style with skirts, trousers, and jeans and isn’t too drafty for our climate either.

Similarly, faux fur is going to be everywhere this Autumn. Think artificial fur that is cosier and furier than fur itself. To be bang on trend, exaggerated faux fur looks are the way to go. Although leopard is in yet again this year, dalmatian print makes a great alternative if you’re keen to switch things up.

Upcycled bags are also having a moment. Look out for bags which play tribute to the circular economy making your accessory of choice a more sustainable option. Think designs that are practical and fun, using recycled materials and make-do-and-mend methods. Pop London’s Shimla upcycled bags (below) tick all the boxes with one-off styles made using antique and vintage embroideries and upcycled leather.

Get the look with:

  • Dalmatian faux fur coat, £110
  • Organic cotton polo neck with keyhole and belt detail, £59 also available in black, light gold and green
  • Harris Tweed XXL bag in houndstooth, £250

all from Pop London

Sequins for going Out Out and stepping into a Fantasy World

For those who are looking to dress up to the max, Natasha Edge, Personal Stylist at Appearance and Attitude is here to introduce you to the Out Out trend. Think sequined, glittery, flared, shimmery, skin-bearing belters that make you go “Can I really wear that?” before you remember you can wear whatever you damn well like.

Below are some examples of how to wear sequins both day and night – because sparkle isn’t just for the evening. Plus did you know that wearing sequins or sparkle near your face makes you look younger – the light reflects onto your skin and brightens your complexion! So it’s a win win.

Meanwhile, Natasha reports that fashion designers are hot under the Regency-era collar. We can blame Bridgerton for a few of the sexier Autumn fashion trends that dominated the autumn catwalks, namely very sheer gowns embroidered with sequins, bows, and satin roses. Here are a few high street versions that are easy to wear and style.

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Strong Suits and shirt dressing

With so many of us returning to the office soon having spent over a year hunched over our laptops at the kitchen table, it’s no surprise that suiting dominated the autumn/winter 2021 catwalks. Natasha advises that it’s all about flared shapes and bold colours, with both jackets and trousers exploiting a more relaxed silhouette. Got your eye on a zesty lemon yellow blazer? Get the trews too, and even consider a bag and shoes to match.

Moving onto shirts, this season’s take on shirt dressing is all about layering. So how to rock this Autumn fashion look? Natasha recommends getting your favourite crisp white shirt and simply wear it beneath a dress. It’s that simple. Whether your dress is strapless, v-neck, round-neck, or a tight bustier-style worn around the waist, the layered collar will add a chic, formal dimension to an otherwise more relaxed silhouette.

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Channel your inner American

According to fashion expert Carolyn Rubido, another key look for this Autumn is the classic Americana style. Think the Ralph Lauren old money fashion look with lots of brown leather, forest greens, classic neutral tones, burnt reds, navy blues and off whites. Your inspiration here for this Autumn fashion look? Pine trees and woodlands, a fireplace in a chateau (we wish!), horses and hound dogs. Must haves to nail this aestehtic include cowboy boots, a brown leather jacket and some dad jeans!

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Which of these Autumn fashion looks do you think you’ll try this season? Do share in a comment below and follow us on Instagram where we love to talk all things fashion over 40 here.

Cover picture:Photo by murat esibatir from Pexels