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What makes a good purchase? And if you know your style (as most of us do by now), is it better to repeat buy the same pieces because you know you’ll wear them a lot, or to challenge yourself into trying something new? My general shopping ethos is to spend more money on the tried-and-tested capsule pieces in my wardrobe – a trench coat, ankle boots, leather trousers – because I know I’ll get the return-per-wear. But for the more trend-lead buys, I might try a high street version before figuring out if it feels really ‘me’.
So, for the shopping edit below, I’ve included some of the season’s more directional buys: a draped top, cream tailored trousers, a sweater dress, waxed jeans, pewter heels and a leopard print party top. These possibly aren’t forever buys (although the cream knitted sweater and skirt combo in bought at H&M on a whim five years ago is still going strong), but you also might find you love them. At the very least they’ll give your wardrobe an autumn update without leaving you broke.
On the more investment end, there are some love-forever leather trousers, a cashmere sweater and a pair of brown knee-high boots that I guarantee you’ll still love for years to come.
“I love the simplicity of this jacket and the off-centre button. It comes in three colours but this cream version is my favourite.”
“Good tops are hard to find but this one is a little bit different and the colour gets my vote too.”
“An alternative to leather or straight denim, a waxed trouser has a bit of texture that works for day or evening.”
“I always love cream shoes to add a bit of polish to an outfit.”
“If, like me, you’re forever carting your laptop around in a cloth bag, this could be an upgrade.”
“Boxy and oversized? Check. A good print? Check. Wear this as a light jacket over a chunky knit or belted with a skinny roll neck.”
“Over the years I’ve amassed lots of cashmere by just buying one here and there or in the sales. This is next on my list.”
“Expensive but a great investment and a classic – and universally flattering – shape.”
“A really directional shoe from M&S – obviously they’d be great for a party but I also like these to elevate a more casual ensemble.”
“Tie your ponytail with a sheer bow. More Parisian chic than girly.”
“Cardigans that double as jackets are always on my radar.”
“I recently invested in some cream tailored trousers and find them way more versatile and easy to wear than I imagined.”
“A coloured sock is a great way to add some flair to a simple outfit.”
“If you already own black loafers, why not add a white pair to your wardrobe.”
“I saw this bag in store last week and it’s even nicer in person.”
“A showstopper of a top. Buy now and save for parties.”
“One of M&S’s bestsellers and for good reason. A wear-with-anything, suits-anyone shape.”
“I’ve just bought some hammered hoops and have been wearing them daily.”
“Not Chanel, but nevertheless chic.”
“A little black party bag is a style saviour. Use it ad nauseum.”
“In the winter I wear thermals under my sweater dresses and look polished but feel extremely cosy.”
“Such a great coat. Love the higher collar, longer length and shade of green.”
“You might not want to belt your sweater dress, but I think this makes it feel more elevated.”
“A really classic pair of round toed, brown leather knee high boots work with anything in my opinion.”
“Add an edge (or be a bright weather optimist) with these aviators.”
