We Brits love to talk about the weather. Be it a heatwave or a thunderstorm, we'll have something to say (read: complain) about it. But in all seriousness, the unpredictable weather can play havoc with our outfit choices. And there's no trickier time than the present. Summer weeks are limited, and autumn is on the horizon, so it's a constant toss-up between which season to dress for. While our hearts are saying stick to linen, our heads (and most probably the forecast) is telling us to start thinking about layers.
It's all about being clever with the way you dress, and in our opinion, taking note from others is the most faff-free option. So whether you imitate Marilyn and wear your summer Bermuda shorts with a polo neck top or you take note from Chrissy and embrace the trench coat with all-weather loafers, these are the seven uncomplicated outfits that'll save you time when you get ready in the mornings.
1. Polo Top + Denim Shorts + Denim Jacket
Style Notes: There's no avoiding rugby style striped shirts for autumn, and who would want to when they look this good? Get ahead and style them already with double denim and red accessories for a Parisian touch, à la Léna.
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Rugby tops are a mini trend for 2024.
The zip makes the classic denim jacket feel fresh.
As comfy as they look.
2. Slip Skirt + Oversized Shirt
Style Notes: Yep, slip skirts are well and truly back—did they ever really go? To make them for for 2024, wear with a baggy shirt left loose and add coloured trainers.
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This one comes in sizes XS-4XL.
Chocolate brown is the colour to get into this autumn.
Who knew khaki and brown worked so well together?
3. Bermuda Shorts + Heels
Style Notes: No need to pack your shorts (especially 2024's key style: the Bermuda) away just because summer is coming to a close. Instead, make like Marilyn and wear with heels and a classic roll neck top.
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You'll wear this on heavy rotation, for years.
This also has a matching oversized waistcoat.
A love-forever pair.
4. White Jeans + Long-Sleeved Breton
Style Notes: White denim is a summer staple, and how do you make white jeans work even harder than they already have? Style with a long-sleeved top, of course. Sorry, jeans. You're not getting a day off just yet.
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The heavyweight tops at Cos always look so premium.
A fashion editor favourite.
So chic for under-£20!
5. Knit Dress + Tote + Sandals
Style Notes: Knitted dresses are a between-season saviour. Right now I'm wearing mine with sandals, but rest assured they'll look just as good with chunky loafers and boots when temperatures truly dip.
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This also comes in red––I love both.
It also comes in seven other colours.
You can't beat a low-heel sandal.
6. Trench Coat + Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: Living in the UK is just a constant cycle of asking yourself, "Do I need a jacket?", and if in doubt, you can always rely on the humble trench. Be prepared to wear it over any (and every) outfit from here on out.
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Genuinely, I can't stop thinking about this trench coat.
Such a great cut.
For days when you don't know whether to choose sandals or boots, go for loafers.
7. Slip Dress + Blazer + Boots
Style Notes: Don't vacuum pack your lightweight dresses away just yet—layer them with a blazer and finish with knee boots for a look I'd argue is even cooler than what you'd pair it with in the summer months.
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The ultimate oversized blazer.
Polka dots are a mini trend I'm on board with.
These come in so many classic colours.
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