I work in fashion and here are the 5 autumn/winter wardrobe essentials that you need to buy now before they’re gone
ALTHOUGH the weather has been a little unpredictable this summer, we’re approaching September, which means one thing and one thing only for shoppers…
Yes, new season styles are hitting the rails of our fave high street stores and before you know it, winter fashion will be in full swing!
And while many of us are reluctant to admit it, soon we’ll be layering up in coats and Uggs.
From knee-high boots to cosy knits, there are a few pieces we think are well worth purchasing before the cold weather really sets in, so we’ve sifted through the new-season collections and handpicked our top pieces.
These items are definitely worth the investment and will complement your existing wardrobe.
So, here are the pieces to purchase now before they sell out!
Uggs
If you’re just getting into Uggs, here’s one piece of advice: buy them now.
Sure, you might not wear them for another month, but once Ugg season hits, getting a pair becomes near impossible.
If you’ve never owned a pair before, start with the ones that revived the brand’s popularity a few years back.
The Classic Ultra Mini boots are a must-have for your winter wardrobe and look effortlessly stylish (and are, of course, super-comfortable) with wide-leg jeans.
Schuh has partnered with Ugg on this exclusive pair of tazz-style slippers, and although they’re labelled as “slippers”, there’s no need to worry as Tiktok has made them socially acceptable to wear out of the house!
These are sure to sell out fast, so if you love the tazz design and a chunkier sole, check out on these at Schuh, pronto.
The dark brown colourway is much easier to keep clean too.
If you’re a fan of Uggs and love your indoor comfies, these cozy slippers are ideal for lounging at home.
With their soft wool lining, they’re the perfect pair for relaxing—think a crackling fire, a Sunday roast, and a movie marathon (pure bliss!).
Don’t wait to put these on your Christmas list, though – get them now while you still can.
Wool coats
A wool-blend coat is an autumn/winter wardrobe staple that’ll never go out of style.
They’re versatility means they go with every outfit and they’re easy to layer up with when the temperatures drop.
It’s definitely worth investing in a coat, and this camel number from H&M’s Premium Collection is no exception.
The camel hue will add warmth to your winter wardrobe and carry you through to early spring.
Plus, it’s a timeless piece you can wear year after year, making the cost per wear so good!
The high-quality fabric and oversized lapels give it a designer look, meaning it will definitely sell out super-quickly.
This one is flying online already, so if your size is unavailable, get down to a Mango store before it’s too late.
The cream colour looks really luxe, but if you’re concerned about keeping it clean, this style also comes in black and brown too.
Style tip: on warmer days, tie the belt in a bow at the back for a chic look that won’t keep you too toastie.
The supermarkets have seriously stepped up their game on the fashion front this autumn/winter, so if you’re on a budget but still want to invest in a new winter coat, then this one from George at Asda is perfect.
Grab it during your weekly shop, or to avoid missing out, you can order online to collect in store.
Boots
A good pair of boots will carry you through the entire season, but there are a lot of pairs on the high street that aren’t quite up to the mark.
But when you find a really good pair, you can pair them with just about anything – from trousers to skirts (long or short), and jeans to dresses.
So, if you want to avoid scuff marks and creasing, then here’s the pairs we think are actually worth buying.
You might remember how insanely popular these H&M boots were last year —and now they’re back!
I was fortunate to snag a pair and received so many compliments that I’ve gone ahead and bought a second pair to have on hand when the first ones eventually wear out.
They’re really durable and look much more high-end than their £44.99 price tag.
You can wear them on a night out with a mini-dress or pair them with a maxi for the office — making them the perfect choice for transitioning from day to night.
It’s always good to own a short pair of boots, and these designer-feel ones from River Island are screaming “Khaite” to me.
The wrap-around lace and gold studded details are stunning, making them look like something you’d find in a high-end store for three times the price.
These are less of a staple, but are guaranteed to be the hero piece of any outfit.
If you’re on the hunt for a brown boot, your search ends here.
I squealed with excitement when I saw this pair in Bershka last week.
The block heel is ideal for being on your feet all day, which is an instant win in my books, and they’re super-stylish and comfortable.
Knitted jumpers
Knitwear is essential for layering and a must-have for autumn/winter.
However, it can be frustrating when your favourite styles stretch out or become bobbly after a few washes, so investing in high-quality knits guarantees you’ll enjoy them for years to come.
With the nsheer number of new season arrivals often feeling overwhelming, we’ve selected the best pieces for you to grab now.
These Primark jumpers were a viral hit last year, and they’ve made a return for 2024. Many shoppers considered them the perfect winter jumper, so it would be a mistake not to shout about them.
The slightly oversized shape makes them the perfect throw-on piece and if you already have the grey, brown and baby blue at the moment colourways, but keep your eyes peeled as Primark fans expect the pink version to return, too.
At only £17, these are a bargain find, but they’re already doing the rounds on TikTok – so get one now before they’re gone.
If you’re looking for a softer option, this is it.
M&S is known for its quality, and it’s delivered with this beautiful crew-neck style.
Available in a range of colours, including vibrant yellow and blue, it’s sure to keep you cosy on chillier days.
Although it may seem strange to be buying jumpers now, these crew-neck oversized styles are always the first to go.
Mango has also launched its knitwear collection early, so if you can’t find the popular Primark one at your local store, this option is almost identical and a great alternative.
BROWN BAGS
Looking to upgrade your handbag collection?
Our advice would be to opt for a brown one – it’s set to be the colour of the season, but is also be a timeless shade that never goes out of style.
While there are loads of bags on the high street to choose from, it’s worth shopping around to find unique pieces that offer a blend of quality, style, and value that stand out from the crowd.
Shopper bags are typically the most versatile because they’re spacious enough to carry everything you need.
This one is particularly great, with ample room for a laptop, making it an ideal work bag.
Its double handles offer the convenience of carrying it on your arm or shoulder, while the zip compartment keeps your belongings secure throughout your day.
And for a personalised touch, consider adding your initials – anything personalisable is super-popular and would also be a lovely gift.
Charles & Keith boasts gorgeous timeless bags and if you’re after a smaller, cross-body option, this one is ideal.
Available exclusively online, it features a rustic-brown shade with stunning gold buckle detailing and can also be used as a clutch.
Suede bags scream luxury, but if your budget doesn’t stretch to high-end prices, this slouchy shopper from River Island really delivers.
With minimal branding and whipstitch grab handles, this bag is an absolute steal, so act fast if you’re coveting one (just remember to buy some suede protector too!).
Five workwear essentials
By Clemmie Fieldsend
Fabulous Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend shared the five workwear essentials everyone should have.
1. WHITE SHIRT
A good white shirt is so versatile. Great for wearing on their own or layering underneath knits and transforming plain jumpers by adding cuff and collar detail, as well as wearing open over plain tops.
2. WIDE LEG TROUSERS
They’ve become a wardrobe staple over recent years as they are comfortable, flattering and will elevate your workwear. Look out for styles with pleating or darting.
3. PRACTICAL TOTE
for a day at work or on your commute you’ll need all your essentials with you, cram them all into a sleek and stylish tote bag in a neutral colour like black, brown or beige so it can be used with all of your outfits.
4. TAILORED BLAZER
Even if worn with torn jeans a tailored blazer will instantly make you look polished and smart for work. Black will be the most useful and look for silhouettes with structure.
5. SIMPLE LOAFER
Whether you like delicate or chunky, a flat and comfortable shoe is essential for everyday use and can look just as dressy as a heel.