As a new season begins, I like to take stock of my wardrobe and establish a few outfit formulas I can rely on over the coming months—combinations that feel comfortable, current and put-together. At this time of year, that usually means perfecting the trio of jacket, trousers and shoes.
This autumn, I’ve been paying particular attention to fabrics, cuts and colours that feel right now while still standing the test of time. When I came across a photo of Elsa Hosk on my feed recently, I couldn’t help but think she’d mastered the formula perfectly.
Instead of reaching for the glossy leather or oversized bomber jackets that typically resurface each autumn, Hosk opted for a suede style—equally timeless, yet distinctly more relevant this season. With its supple texture and lightweight feel, suede brings a casual ease that makes it ideal for everyday wear. The trend has been steadily building over the past few seasons, appearing across jackets, boots, and handbags, and Hosk’s version, The Schoolhouse Jacket (£811) from her own label, Helsa, comes in a soft, washed shade of green—struck me as the perfect autumn layer.
Then there’s her choice of jeans and shoes, both of which sat in that sweet spot between timeless and trend-aware. Her straight-leg jeans, in an inky dark-blue wash, grounded the outfit beautifully. The classic cut stops the look from veering too trendy while the rich hue adds depth—especially fitting for the cooler months. In a season where baggy and flared silhouettes are reemerging, the straight-leg style remains a reliable constant in any fashion person’s rotation.
Finally, bypassing the loafers and boat shoes dominating this season, Hosk finished the look with a pair of heeled ballet pumps—a chic nod to the latest footwear movement among the best-dressed set. Feminine yet practical, this poised shoe style adds polish without pretension, and when paired with denim, it feels perfectly elevated for the everyday.
An easy outfit formula that promises to endure year after year—read on to shop my edit of the best suede jackets, straight-leg jeans and heeled ballet pumps to recreate the look this autumn.
Shop Suede Jackets
Shop the exact jacket Elsa Hosk loves.
The suede bomber jacket trend is breaking through right now.
Layer this over a white tee and jeans or style it over the season's favourite pencil skirt.
This elegant jacket also comes in 14 other colours and washes.
Shop Straight-Leg Jeans
These classic high-rise straight-leg jeans also come in a lighter shade of mid-blue.
Style with pointed-toe boots to make your legs go on and on.
These inky blue jeans are so easy to slot into a capsule wardrobe.
Style this with a supple suede jacket or wear it with one of the season's favourite single-breasted blazers.
Shop Heeled Pumps
Style these with white socks to give your look a preppy finish.
The chocolate brown colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down, the these pretty heeled ballet pumps are a chic way to tap into the trend.
With a thick block heel, these are comfortable enough to style all day.
These classic black pumps are a timeless shoe you can come back to season after season.
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No, Really—This Denim Color Is Easier to Style Than Blue *and* Black JeansAnd everyone with taste is wearing it with loafers for fall.
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It's True—This Rich Shoe Color Trend Goes With More Than Black and Brown Shoes DoIn Elsa Hosk we trust.
