One of the most influential roles in fashion has to be a fashion buyer, as these are the ones who decide what makes it onto the shop floor (or virtual shop floor), influence which brands will be rising stars for the year and decide the items and trends that we collectively think are really worth investing in. Who better then to turn to for a shopping list for autumn winter 2020, then fashion buyers? They first saw these collections back in February before lockdown restrictions were put in place across Europe, and how we get dressed and what we look for in clothes has seen a note-able shift.
I asked buyers from Net-a-Porter, Matchesfashion, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Brownsfashion to share the eight items they personally would dream of buying from the autumn winter 2020 collections. Of course the words 'working from home' and 'comfort' will appear again and again as you scroll through their wishlists, as many gravitated towards comfortable knitwear, practical coats and shoes that can double as slippers. There are also some show pieces in there too however that are selected for a life after lockdown, with beautiful gowns, luxury handbags and jewellery that fall into the 'dream buy' category.
Keep scrolling to see the items these fashion buyers and insiders have on their personal shopping lists this autumn winter.
Natalie Kingham, Fashion and Buying Director at MATCHESFASHION
"Part of our Innovators Programme this year, Ex-Central St Martins alumni Chopova Lowena’s sporty aesthetic and use of Bulgarian fabrications is very avant-garde and versatile. This upcycled dress is one of my key pieces for the season, the use of recycled cotton and linen mixed with beautiful embroidery and studs perfectly demonstrate their expertise in construction and sustainable practices."
"This suiting capsule created exclusively for MATCHESFASHION perfectly represents McQueen’s iconic style offering exquisitely cut, special pieces which are very easy to wear. This suit will be a great investment and something that I will keep and wear for years to come, together or as separates.”
"Special, heirloom jewellery that you can cherish forever and then pass down to a loved one is a great investment. I love the chunky Lauren Rubinski chains, something that before I may have saved for a special occasion I now wear to instantly elevate an everyday look such as a white shirt or cashmere jumper.”
"One of my favourite new labels to look out for is Nodaleto, beautifully crafted in Venice their signature Mary Jane Platforms are my favourite style from the collection.”
"Spending more time on Zoom over the past few months I’ve been drawn to beautifully cut and interesting tops that are versatile and comfortable. This oversized linen shirt from one of our Innovators, Art School, feels effortless and the lightweight fabric means it can be worn in the warmer months too.”
"The Bottega Veneta Chain Pouch Clutch is timeless and I know will work hard in my wardrobe season after season.”
"I think we are all looking forward to dressing up again and Molly Goddard’s collection is so joyful and uplifting, her tulle dresses also look great layered over a contrasting cardigan.”
Libby Page, Senior Market Editor at NET-A-PORTER
"As somebody who is partial to a suit (when I say partial I mean addicted) this off-the-shoulder update from Altuzarra is like no other tuxe jacket I own. I love the smart but sexy appeal it brings."
"Chain detailing has been the must-have update to shoes via ankle straps, bags with chunky chain straps courtesy of Bottega and even dresses this Fall. JW Anderson’s chic sleeveless dress with chain belting is timeless. I’ll be wearing mine with a thin ribbed turtleneck underneath."
"Working from home has made me consider my purchases more with a bigger focus on investment and timeless styles. This Cartier watch is a signature from the brand that was introduced years ago therefore it’s guaranteed that I’ll still love this in years to come!"
"The knit dress is autumn's most-lusted after piece. Its versatility and comfort means it’s suitable for all occasions—given the current climate. The open back detail on this means its perfect for when evening dressing returns, I’ll throw an oversized sweater over the top for a more casual attitude. An added bonus being that it was designed by the incredibly talent Christopher Esber who is a master in subtle cut-out details that surprise and delight."
"In keeping with the chain theme, a classic gold chain necklace is top of my wishlist. Loren’s sustainable approach means this ever-lasting piece was also made with care and a conscience. Two things front of my mind and our customers when shopping right now."
"Sneakers are usually a practical shoe that I buy once or twice a year but for autumn they are the shoe of the season. Clean minimal styles that can also feel elevated and worn with suits when we return to work will be my go-to. I hope to buy these styles from The Row in all 3 colours. They’re the perfect non-sneaker sneaker…"
"Knitwear is all I will be nesting in this autumn and the perfect WFH piece is an oversized menswear sweater. Toteme does this perfectly. I'll be styling with slim-fit jeans and knee-high boots for added femininity when we start to venture out more."
"For someone whose go-to look is head to toe neutrals, I don’t own a tan bag and have been meaning to fix this gap in my wardrobe for so long. The softness of the Flamenco pouch is so desirable and fits right in with my more relaxed approach to dressing. Just grab and go!
Laura Rowan, Womenswear Buying Manager at Harvey Nichols
"Loulou Studio is a new brand we launched this season, designed by influencer and namesake Loulou de Saison. The quality and the price point of the whole collection is amazing and makes this shearling jacket an item not to be missed!"
"As the weather gets colder, Vince is the go-to brand for essential knitwear. For this sweater we love the update of the half zip which gives this classic, a sporty, contemporary feel."
"Asymmetric tops is one of those trends that has crept up out of nowhere but has been consistently selling out for us this season. This one shoulder tank from Line By K provides a fashion forward update to a classic wardrobe staple."
"Slvrlake is THE denim brand you need to know. Their London jean is an iconic style that is so flattering on all different body shapes and will give you that relaxed, cool-girl look that you have been searching for."
"You can’t go wrong with an investment piece such as this classic Camel coat from Loewe. You will have this in your wardrobe forever."
"Petar Petrov was one of our favourite shows in the AW20 calendar. This blouse is an easy way to elevate your outfit and can take you from WFH video calls to dinner and whatever else 2020 throws at you."
"Low Classic is one of our new launches for AW20 and this blazer provides their signature twist on a classic style which is versatile enough to carry you through the season."
"This vegan leather jumpsuit is comfy enough to wear at home on Zoom calls but still exudes a pulled together, effortless vibe that you can style up or down."
Heather Gramston, Head of Womenswear at Browns Fashion
"I love the contrast between the classic shirt dress shape and the sheer fabric which reminds me of latex and is a nod to the fashion fetish trend this season."
"These are completely biodegradable and are a long overdue chic update to a rubber boot."
"You can’t go wrong with Jil Sander and this puff sleeve mohair sweater ticks all the right boxes."
"This is the perfect tailored jacket with a nipped in waist for video calls during virtual appointments and is a great addition to add with a pair of jeans and boots."
"These Wardrobe.NYC leggings with an ankle zip have formed the basis of my WFH wardrobe and they’re part of the exclusive capsule the brand created for us for AW20."
"This is a wardrobe essential of mine. I already own it in black and will be investing in the beige tan colourway for AW20."
"Over-the-knee boots were seen everywhere for AW20 and these Prada patent over-the-knee boots are undoubtably the square toe of the season while the midi heel is an added bonus."
"I am a big fan of this neon shade that we’ve seen everywhere for AW20 and expect this colourway to continue into next season."
Lydia King, Fashion Director at Harrods
"Nothing says 2020 more than the wrap coat which is the ultimate in chic comfort and this version by Kassl has gorgeous details in the most sumptuous wool."
"The square neck trend continues and is so flattering even on a zoom call."
"The shows for AW20 were all about bold colour and optimism so this is a perfect dress for Christmas and the coming year."
"The puffer trend shows no signs of waning and this version is a modern new take on the trend."
"Super chic and easy to dress up or down or to transition from WFH to the office."
"Sometimes you need just a beautiful object, and this is my favourite. I’ve been wearing it non-stop but in winter and in the evenings, it will come into its own."
"For floor length glamour for this season’s stay at home dinner party dressing."
"Effortlessly chic with a sharp heel. I like these so much I have invested in the over the knee version too."
Next up, see our guide to the key trends for autumn winter 2020.
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