As fashion editors, we’re rather well acquainted with the trend cycle. We’ve witnessed hundreds of beautiful garments and many exquisitely crafted accessories rise in popularity, before ebbing out of style. There are, however, a few exceptional items that we’ve seen transcend this rhythm and reach true cult status. These special items have the rare ability to capture the fashion zeitgeist, riffing off a building trend and delivering a wardrobe-altering product.
There are a handful of true cult classics that offer a timeless look that always feels current. Khaite’s V-neck cashmere cardigan eclipses its peers, delivering a flattering, comfortable and wearable style that you’ll reach for for years to come, whilst The Row struck gold with its leather ankle boots that balance grunge with wearability. But, from luxury leaders such as Acne Studios and Miu Miu to high-street heroes including ARKET and COS, we’ve identified the cult buys for this season to give you a head start on honing your autumn/winter wardrobe in 2024. Read on to discover our top 12 cult fashion buys worth adding to your basket.
1. Miu Miu X New Balance 530 SL Trainers
Style Notes: Miu Miu's latest collab with New Balance has been swiped up quickly by the fashion set. The classic, chunky trainer features a mismatched laces with a distressed design, but its the suede fabrication that make these feel really luxurious. The humble trainer has peaked at cult status already this year, and we expect to see its popularity continue to grow through autumn and beyond.
Shop the Miu Miu X new Balance trainers:
Expect to see these continue to dominate in autumn.
There's mule version too!
2. Toteme Embroidered Scarf Jacket
Style Notes: It might not be brand new, but the longevity of Toteme's embroidered scarf jacket goes to show why it is a fan favourite amongst the Who What Wear UK team, years after it's initial debut. After the success of the O.G scarf coat, there are now more colours and lengths than the embroidered, so I'm secretly counting down the days until it's officially cold enough to safely cocoon myself in a jacket this cosy once again.
Shop the Toteme Scarf Coat:
The white piping elevates the clever design.
As we head into the cooler months, we'll be reaching for longer length more and more.
3. The Row Margaux Bag
Style Notes: Every year I keep my eye out for the perfect pair of leather bag, and every year I come back to The Row. Already experts in autumn/winter accessories (hello, zip front ankle boots), the Margaux has served as this season's bowling bag inspo that has influenced every one from Prada to M&S. You can't ask for better proof that this is an icon in the making.
Shop The Row Margaux Bag:
Perfect to complement a tonal look.
Our dream suede bag, at an even better price.
4. Aligne Reversible Check Trench Coat
Style Notes: I've spotted barn coats and trenches on all of my favourite influencers already this season, and I can't wait to nab this exceptional two-in-one hybrid (and reversible) coat from Aligne. Coming in at knee length and in classic camel, this elegant longline coat will l pair perfectly with just about every autumn ensemble we can think of.
Shop Aligne Trench Coat:
This is at the top of my wish list.
5. Loewe Puzzle Bag
Style Notes: Loewe's ergonomic bag has been on our radar in a big way since it debuted in 2014. Now available in an ever broader range of colours, fabrics and sizes (suede, shearling and tote!), we're as charmed now as we were when we first laid eyes on it 10 years ago.
Shop Loewe Puzzle:
White leather can be hard to get right, but Loewe does it so well.
This will never go out of style.
6. Dissh Linen Vest
Style Notes: The simple waistcoat's bigger, more sophisticated sister, the Dissh linen vest is the transitional wonder we didn't expect to be such a resounding hit. Like all sleeveless tops, it works just as well with summer skirts and sandals as it does a heavy winter coat and jeans.
Shop Dissh Vest:
White would pair so well with a beige trench and blue jeans.
Black tailoring always looks expensive.
7. Khaite Studs
9. Khaite's Cashmere Blend Cardigan
Style Notes: Ever since Katie Holmes wore that cardigan in 2019, we haven't been able to get Khaite out of our minds. Always a cut above on quality and design, Khaite's latest offering of belts, shoes and of course bags, have made a hero of the oversized stud, and the effects are already being seen on the high street.
Shop Khaite Studded Accessories:
The easy way to dress up a t-shirt and jeans.
The low-heel is so elegant.
8. Max Mara Camel Coat
6. Max Mara's Coat
Style Notes: Nothing signals the change in seasons like a Max Mara wool coat. Autumn 2024 will still lean as heavily on Max Mara's classic camel coat, just as in seasons past.
Shop Max Mara Camel Coats:
Perfect for layering over a thick jumper.
This is a gorgeous, relaxed option.
9. ARKET Blazers
Style Notes: Arket's Wool Blend Blazers are every fashion insider's secret to elevating a casual look. Pairing as well with jeans and a white tee as it does an evening dress, this is the blazer we're banking on (again) this, and every autumn.
Shop ARKET Blazers:
Check is always perfect for autumn.
Oversized done right.
10. COS Wide-Leg Twill Trousers
Style Notes: The perfect pair of trousers does exist. Coming in a range of colours, COS's wide-leg twill trousers are expertly pleated to drape loosely but elegantly on the leg.
Shop COS Wide Leg Trousers:
A well-cut pair of trousers are a wardrobe staple.
These make transitional styling easy.
11. Sézane Le Cabas Tote Bag
12. Prada's Logo-Plaque Loafers
Style Notes: COS' leather swing bag and Uniqlo's nylon crossbody were huge hits on the high street, but Sézane's stealth wealth tote is next on our radar as the premium bag to know. Composed of glossy patent leather (or soft suede), these sleek totes have featured front and centre in dozen's of Instagram pics this month.
Patent leather was made for autumn.
We can't get enough of luxe suede.
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