Autumn Must-Haves
It’s almost that time of year again when the nights get darker, the days shorter, the weather cooler, and the leaves browner. Yes, summer may be over, but cosy season is here and Royal Victoria Place has all you need to welcome it with open arms.
From transitioning your wardrobe to adding a touch of autumn to your home, here’s our guide to this season’s must haves.
Simple seasonal swaps
Autumn fashion is all about bridging the gap between summer and winter trends – so don’t pack those summer outfits away just yet!
This season is all about layering. And luckily, summer wardrobe favourites like midi and slip dresses are the perfect base to start with. Early autumn – when the weather’s still a little warmer – you might want to pair your favourite summer dresses with an oversized denim jacket and ankle boots. And as the temperature drops, they look great paired with some tights, and a chunky cardigan or jumper from French Connection too.
Shirts are also a great addition to your autumn outfits and Fenwick have a great range to choose from. Whether your style is plaid, striped or denim, layer them over your favourite summer tees or crop tops and pair with jeans, joggers or leggings for a casual style.
And if you’re reluctant to swap loose fitting summer wear for super skinny jeans, then we have good news for you – relaxed style straight and mom jeans are in! Dress down with some comfortable trainers or opt for a smarter style with new boots or shoes.
Back to autumn basics
There’s no such thing as too many knits and a woollen wardrobe never goes out of style! Pick up staples including rollnecks and sweaters from M&S. Plus, knitwear just got a serious makeover for this season in the form of figure-hugging but oh-so-comfy knit skirts, maxi dresses and two-piece sets.
*Image provided by Hobbs
Trench coats are timeless and versatile and make for a great autumn coat choice for both men and women. On crisp autumn mornings or chilly evenings, add a hat and oversized scarf for extra warmth and bonus style points. M&S have a great selection including matching sets.
Just like you can’t have summer without a sandal, it wouldn’t be autumn without boots. This season, it’s all about embracing the Wild West and getting your rodeo on with a pair of on-trend cowboy boots – yeehaw! From cowboy to classic knee-high, check out the range at Office.
Bright on trend
The nights might be getting darker, but autumn this year is about all things bold, bright and beautiful. Runway collections were packed with saturated colours from fuschia pink to lemon yellow.
Embrace the trend in head-to-toe brights. Hobbs have a great range of statement autumn dresses, or add a pop of colour with a statement bag or earrings from Accessorize.
And if you’re not a fan of neon, shades of green and brown are also set to be popular, more muted, autumn colours this year.
Seasonal switch up
As the last of the summer sun fades, it’s time to swap sun-kissed beach waves for copper tones.
Copper and chestnut brown are always popular autumnal hair colours to try so chat to the team at LA Hair about a subtle seasonal balayage with your next wash, cut and blow dry. Or find a range of temporary and permanent hair dye options available at Boots.
For a new do, look to the trending ‘70s style for inspo with lots of layers and bangs. Now is the time to experiment with bold mullets, rough layers and a grown-out fringe to help frame the face and give your hair movement.
Cosy up at home
Darker nights and colder weather may be a pain for commuting, school runs and outdoor plans, but there’s no arguing they make your home feel extra cosy.
If you’re looking for a reason to decorate, then trying a new rich colour palette for the autumn is the perfect excuse – bold hues of green, blue and burgundy set to be popular autumn colours this year.
For a less dramatic transformation, pick up cushions and throws in accent colours from Collingwood Batchellor for a simple refresh. Why not add chunky knit blankets and throws for extra comfort?
Nothing says autumn like the sweet smell of pumpkin pie or smoky spices. Fill your home with the signature scents of the season and choose from a range of candles and reed diffusers at Oliver Bonas or Wilko.
And, once you’ve created your perfect autumn hideaway, it’s time to enjoy it! Stock up on cosy nightwear essentials from Next and curl up on the sofa with a film, or a good book from WH Smith.
Whether you’re now inspired to pick up some cowboy boots, pj’s or candles, pop into one of our cafés on your autumn shopping trip to enjoy the range of seasonal drinks and treats. For the full list of stores on offer at Royal Victoria Place visit our Eat Drink Shop page.
