As banal as it sounds, people watching is one of those small things that I really missed last year. Perhaps it's a pastime that particularly lends itself to city living, but all I know is that there is such joy to be found in walking down the street or sitting on the Tube and taking in the personalities and outfits that pass me by. Of course, in a city like London, I am spoilt for choice when it comes to street style, and as bountiful as Instagram can be for outfit inspiration, you really can't beat the immediate appeal of IRL style.
Autumn fashion is one thing that, I believe, Londoners do particularly well—the warm-weather-dressing award will always be handed to a country with balmier climes—and so, as we look ahead to the coming season, I've been predicting the trends that I expect to see on city dwellers. In the fashion week hall of fame, London is generally known for being the most experimental and cutting edge, but from my experience, many of the city's fashion lovers build their outfits from classic pieces. Think striped shirts, casual denim and clean-lined tailoring. It's a neutral base upon which personality pieces can be layered.
So if you're wondering what London's best dressed will be wearing this autumn, scroll down to see the trends I'm putting my money on.
1. Pinstripe Shirts
A classic piece worn by the likes of Sienna Miller and Meghan Markle, the pinstripe shirt is the ultimate layering hero. Keep it loose, and wear it over baggy jeans this season.
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2. Plissé Fabrics
Inspired by Issey Miyake's iconic Pleats Please aesthetic, the plissé trend is gaining momentum. Available in everything from trousers and tops to dresses and skirts, the trend looks both minimalistic and statement-making.
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3. XXL Denim
It seems as though denim silhouettes are expanding every year, and for 2021, the straight leg has graduated to the XXL fit. It may recall grungy teen trends, but it will look just as good with posh party tops, as seen on Lucy Williams.
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4. Quilted Jackets
The puffer coat was last winter's best-selling item, and you'll be glad to hear that its practical appeal isn't going anywhere this autumn. The only point of difference is that for 2021, the silhouette is a little more slim-lined with a subtle quilted finish.
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5. Chunky Knee-High Boots
Chunky boots were a godsend when we were making our 100th turn about the local park last year, and so we're okay with the fact that this year's knee-high iterations are looking sturdier than ever.
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6. Everyday Suits
Ever since they hit fashion week's street style shots back in 2015, suits have remained a go-to in the fashion editor's oeuvre. I predict Londoners will be wearing theirs with trainers and printed tees this autumn.
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