There’s a reason stylists love autumn
Every stylist I have ever spoken to has selected autumn as their favourite month for styling. And even though I am a dedicated sun worshipper – and summer will always be my season – I know why the cooler months are so popular with stylists. The layering possibilities are endless, with myriad knitwear options in swathes of glorious autumnal shades.
Many perceive the cooler months as gloomy and grey, but after summers spent wafting around in chic black summer dresses, the change of seasons brings a rainbow of spices and seasonal berry hues. I tend to lean towards what I like to call “happy colours”, such as a knit in a joyous kingfisher blue or a toasty orange shade such as the Uniqlo premium lambswool turtleneck jumper. It’s an instant shot of dopamine for your wardrobe.
Elegance in comfort dressing
Aside from colour, it’s textures that seduce me. The colder months often outstay their welcome, but wrapping up in cosy fabrics such as cashmere and merino wool makes it more enjoyable. I can think of nothing more comforting than styling a wide-leg pant (always more comfortable than jeans and infinitely more elegant) with my favourite knitwear.
And, of course, I’m all about a rollneck for chic styling in the winter. For me, the Uniqlo dark brown merino wool turtleneck – anything resembling chocolate is good for me – would be a wardrobe staple. I’d team it with my favourite chestnut corduroy trouser suit with its 1970s lapels, flared leg and adorned with a vintage brooch.
Prioritise style over trends
I have never been one for trends, unless they are ones that enter fashion’s revolving door and return again and again. At this point they are no longer trends, but classics. The art in styling is not in emulating others – you will be at ease in any garment that is styled correctly and befits your personal style, regardless of the trend.
Feeling good is very much a part of looking good. So you can head out to the most bougie venue all safely cocooned in a cashmere or even a merino knit and still exude confidence.
I am very much a case in point, teaming softer-fabric tailored trousers with a cheery knit if I am travelling to a more relaxed appointment, or a more seductive jewel tone in perhaps a burgundy wine colour and matching lippy. I like to elevate my more casual looks with gold accessories – gold pumps and earrings are my default for the perfect combination of comfy meets chic – and for quality knitwear, Uniqlo is always a safe bet.
Choose colours that illuminate those dark days
One thing is for certain: the colder and shorter the days become, the more light we lose, and with that some of our joy – because lack of sunlight will do that to you. If you struggle with what to wear in autumn, simply reflect the colours that nature brings. They dance hand in hand for a reason. It will always show you what colours work in harmony.
My number one tip for autumn styling is to select fabrics that comfort, are strokable and colours that illuminate your face and radiate the inviting glow that warming days by the fire can bring. Like so many other freelancers, I am lucky enough to work from home, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want and need to look professional and stylish – even if it’s just for the courier deliveries. After all, I have a reputation to uphold.
Want to make life a little better this season? Snuggle up to the soft touch of men’s and women’s knitwear from UNIQLO
