This week, I did something I rarely do: I closed the shopping apps on my phone, jumped on the train, and headed to the high street to try on new-season pieces. You would think that, as a fashion editor, I’m always in shops, but it’s often easier to fill up my online baskets from the comfort of my pyjamas.
The thing is, though, with the new season dropping in, I’ve ended up wanting more outfits than my shopping budget will allow. So to make a more refined edit, I headed to the high street.
I set myself the task of hunting down affordable items that look premium; a few of my favourites were H&M’s funnel neck trench that’s the answer to getting dressed up at this time of year. Then there’s Matalan’s loafers that look very similar to Saint Laurent’s cult pair and Zara’s faux leather barrel-leg trousers that just so happen to be the perfect alternative to jeans.
And here’s not forgetting my supermarket visits. George at Asda stopped me in my tracks in the aisles, drawing me to the leopard cardigan-scarf hybrid that’s basically a two-for-one buy for just £28, and my trip to Sainsbury’s led me to a checked skirt that I can’t wait to wear with chunky boots and knitwear.
So, whether you’re looking for a new coat or the perfect work shoe, here are the budget fashion buys that make up my dream autumn starter pack.
Leopard-print scarf neck cardigan, £28, George at Asda
For me, one of the best parts about autumn (along with long walks to find a new roast dinner spot) is getting to swaddle up in new knitwear. Animal prints of all kinds – from zebra and tiger to cow and deer – are key this season, and while I love them all, none are more classic than leopard. This cosy cardigan is extra special, as not only is it tapping into the wild prints trend, it’s also a two-for-one buy. With a detachable scarf, you can style together as a duo or just add the scarf over your favourite winter coat to liven it up once temperatures drop – George, you’re a genius!
High-neck collared top, £18, F&F at Tesco
Let me introduce you to the “nice top” you’ll want to style with everything from slouchy jeans to sleek pencil skirts this season. Rich, glossy shades of warm burgundy will always be a welcome addition to my wardrobe, and I’m quite taken by this top that features the small detail making a big impact this year: frog fastenings. The fancy buttons are also being spotted on jackets, dresses and coats, and they’re an easy way to elevate your basics.
Short trench coat, £29.99, H&M
The answer to “Do I need a jacket?” will be a firm yes for the foreseeable future, so we may as well make it a good one, right? H&M is winning for me so far this season – with everything from military drummer styles to bombers and bikers, there’s something for everyone. And I’ve fallen for this cropped trench coat. Khaki outerwear was spotted all over the runways for AW26 at the likes of Joseph and Valentino, and considering it’s just as easy to style as black and beige, it won’t be a fleeting trend like cobalt or Cadbury purple. I’ll be wearing this funnel neck iteration with a kilt skirt and knee-high boots for autumn and bring it back out next spring.
Burgundy ruched PU loafers, £20, Matalan
I’ve wanted the viral Saint Laurent loafers for quite a while, but at £880, I’m just not willing to splurge. Instead, I’ve been looking for high-street versions and M&S, Zara and Matalan have amazing pairs. Featuring the ruched, pie crust detail, this glossy burgundy pair is going to make packing away my sandals that little bit easier. I’ll be adding socks for a preppy touch and styling with an Argyle jumper and checked skirt for an autumnal outfit to wear on repeat.
Brown check skirt, £28, Tu at Sainsbury’s
If you haven’t looked at Tu’s “new in” section recently, you should. The autumn offerings are some of the best I’ve seen from the supermarket heroes, and while it was tricky to choose just one item to add to my edit, this checked skirt stood out. Giving that Claudia Winkleman highlands vibe we’re all obsessed with right now, I’ll be taking inspiration from the presenter by wearing it with a chunky knit, even chunkier boots and a barn jacket.
Leather-effect barrel trousers, £29.99, Zara
I tried these on at Zara this week, and rest assured, they look so much more expensive than they are. In fact, they’re so good, I had to buy them. As the perfect alternative to barrel-leg jeans, I actually can’t wait for the weather to get cooler so I can style these faux leather trousers with a red V-neck jumper, white T-shirt and a long floor-sweeping coat. And yes, of course I’ll be adding the Matalan ruched loafers, too.
Triangle scarf, £18, M&S
After making its debut at London Fashion Week with its “see now, buy now” collection, M&S has made fashion people fill their wardrobes with the catwalk-ready pieces. While I wait for the satin bomber to be restocked, I’ll be focusing on the high-street hero’s accessories, and this tomato triangle scarf is such a good autumn addition. Adding a flash of colour to knitwear, jackets and coats, it’s the easiest way to brighten up the day no matter the weather forecast.
Single-breasted blazer, £24, Primark
I bought a similar version of this high-neck blazer in grey last month, and each time I’ve worn it people have stopped me in the street to ask where it’s from. So, of course, I now need the black one, too. I’m all for being able to style outerwear as a top as an alternative partywear look, so I’ll just be pairing this with satin trousers, slingbacks and a clutch bag underneath my arm. Simple, yet oh so chic – well done, Primark.