Of the many perks of my job, writing off a shopping trip as "research" is my favourite. Here at Who What Wear UK, we keep our finger on the pulse of all the new-in sections to keep you as up to date and informed as possible ahead of your next purchases. So last week I hit the high street to check out the latest additions to our favourite stores, and soon noticed that four standout shades are defining autumn/winter 2023.
When it comes to styling, colour is a powerful tool that is all too often overlooked. There are certain hues that add an expensive feel to outfits, no matter the price point; neutral hues that are so versatile that their cost per wear is tiny and striking shades that can rejuvenate a long-relied-upon outfit. Truly, the colour of an item can be just as important as the design itself. Luckily for us, the British high street is well aware of the impact colour can have, and has a bounty of pieces to choose from across the trending spectrum this season. After trying on what felt like the entire rainbow, there were four incredible shades that I kept coming back to, and that I think will define autumn 2023.
Keep scrolling to discover the key hues of the season and shop my affordable picks.
1. SAFFRON RED
Style Notes: First, there's no denying that saffron red is having a moment. The bold hue could be spotted even from outside the shops, punctuating the new-in sections with vibrancy. I'll be honest; I've never really engaged with red. As someone who has pink-toned skin, I wrote it off as not for me, but this exact shade that keeps cropping up is a universally good tone, and I actually left this try-on with a new infatuation with the hue. Plus, wearing a standout shade definitely makes you feel powerful.
SHOP SAFFRON RED:
The button details are a nice touch.
This piece was made for transitional weather.
If you're new to bold colours, ease in through accessories like shoes.
Swap your classic black blazer for a striking saffron shade this season.
Just add jeans and layer up gold jewellery.
From the colour to the balloon sleeves, this dress will make an entrance.
2. RICH BROWN
Style Notes: For many of us fans of neutrals, we too often turn to black for ease. But if you're looking to rejuvenate your selection of classic shades, brown should be a contender. Stepping into M&S, I immediately honed in on a slinky midaxi skirt and then found this exquisite faux-leather biker jacket, which deserves a special mention for the quality alone. As I strolled through other stores, I kept spotting this deep chocolate shade in all iterations from coats to trousers and a plethora of excellent accessories, too.
SHOP RICH BROWN:
This lightweight faux-leather is the softest I've ever felt. Fact.
A sleek satin slip can be dressed up or down for all occasions.
One of my favourite colour combinations is brown and blue, so style these up with your favourite blue jeans.
I tried these on too, and the drape is truly brilliant.
This is such a chic length and cut.
The fluid shape and fabric feel so expensive.
3. CHARCOAL GREY
Style Notes: The next shade I fell for was grey. No, not a groundbreaking hue in and of itself, but right now the high street is offering so many expensive-looking grey pieces that it can't possibly be overlooked. Unlike the array of light greys we see all year, as we move into the cooler months, thick wool styles in deeper grey weaves are taking centre stage. And this dress proves how impactful this neutral can really be.
SHOP CHARCOAL GREY:
The dress I tried is now sold out, but this is a solid alternative.
The silhouette of this blazer is impeccable.
For work, relaxing or eveningwear, you'll restyle this pair on so many occasions.
In the market for a new coat? Look no further.
Made from 100% boiled merino wool.
I'm a big fan of the matching co-ord skirt.
4. DEEP BURGUNDY
Style Notes: Last but far from least, a classic autumnal shade has been revived for the new season. Deeper than trending saffron, burgundy tones with added notes of plum look elevated at any price point. From tailored silhouettes to relaxed styles, I spotted (and tried on) lots of great high-street burgundy pieces for autumn, and I'll admit that a few of them came home with me.
SHOP DEEP BURGUNDY:
No, the price tag isn't a typo.
I also tried on this gorgeous burgundy coat from Whistles, and haven't stopped thinking about it since.
Anthropologie's knitted dress selection is so strong right now.
I stopped in my tracks when I spotted this suit.
Shop the matching Relaxed Tailored Trousers in Plum (£110).
Just in time for sweater season.
If you told me this was designer, I'd believe you.
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