Layers to love: Your guide to autumn dressing
4 August 2024
Navigating the onset of the colder months with sartorial flair demands a thoughtfully curated wardrobe. Take these insider tips from stylist Celine Sheridan, to achieve polished ease this autumn.
Unexpected pairings

“I absolutely love mixing smart and casual outerwear,” reveals Celine. Incorporating sportswear into your autumn repertoire brings a contemporary edge to classic layering. Picture a sleek, tailored blazer paired with slouchy joggers or an oversized hoodie nestled snuggly beneath a structured coat. This unexpected combination creates a dynamic, effortless look that's spot-on for this season.

Snug sophistication
Ami Paris New Ami University Cap from Bicester Village

ORP

£110

Village

£73

Ami Paris

New Ami University Cap
STYLE TIP

Transition your summer baseball caps seamlessly into autumn by styling them with "an oversized blazer and chunky knit " recommends Celine. Keep this must-have accessory from Maje handy for those unpredictable hair days.

Creating a balanced silhouette is essential in layering. Experiment with proportions by combining oversized and fitted pieces.

Celine Sheridan

Stylist

Etro Embroidered dress from Bicester Village

ORP

£1,760

Village

£880

Etro

Embroidered dress
STYLE TIP

Take inspiration from Celine's approach by keeping your summer staples in play. Pair this airy silhouette from Etro with your cosiest cashmere and boots for an effortless transition.

Trans-seasonal investments

Well-versed in Europe's unpredictable climate, where you can “experience four seasons in a single day,” Celine recommends a versatile approach to autumn dressing. “There’s no need for separate winter and summer wear; light layers can easily transition into colder months,” she advises. Keep lightweight pieces in rotation by layering with turtlenecks or chunky knits. Breezy blouses can also be worn under knitted cardigans or sleeveless dresses, offering endless styling possibilities.

Layer up in denim
Lighten your palette

When refining your autumn/winter wardrobe, dare to venture beyond dark, heavy hues. “Autumn’s palette is pretty predictable,” notes Celine, “with its beiges, browns and warm tones – they never go out of style.” However, don’t underestimate the power of lighter shades. “Whites and other neutrals bring a refreshing twist,” she adds, offering a new perspective on autumnal dressing.

Hue harmony
Anine Bing Donne silk blazer from Bicester Village

ORP

£530

Village

£265

Anine Bing

Donne silk blazer
STYLE TIP

Stick to a cohesive colour palette for your key pieces, adding depth by mixing shades within the same colour family. This neutral jacket from Isabel Marant ensures it will remain a wardrobe staple for years to come…

N.Peal Carnaby hal zip sweater from Bicester Village

ORP

£375

Village

£187

N.Peal

Carnaby hal zip sweater
STYLE TIP

Lightweight knits, sumptuous cashmere and snug wool blends offer warmth sans bulk.

It's all about the texture

Layering isn’t just about warmth – it's a playful exploration of textures. Pair silk blouses with wool cardigans, leather jackets with cashmere sweaters and denim with sherpa details. “We crave comfort in fabrics when it's cooler outside,” says Celine, encouraging textured combinations. "Choose chunky knits and heavy coats,” she advises. Infuse your wardrobe with luxurious textures on days when you want to feel cocooned, then pair with silk and satin accents for a refined touch.

Sumptuous textures, effortless style
Unlock your coat’s potential

“A staple coat is a must for autumn,” asserts Celine. Whether it’s a timeless trench, a snug parka or a classic pea coat, outerwear serves as the pièce de résistance that completes your layered look. "We all have those moments when we realise it's time for a new one," Celine muses. This season, lightweight quilted jackets are trending. Opt for a complementary, seasonal colour or embrace tonal dressing for seamless integration into your wardrobe as a standalone piece or layer.

Outerwear heroes
Hugo Lightweight outerwear from Bicester Village

ORP

£189

Village

£129

HUGO

Lightweight outerwear
STYLE TIP

Consider your next investment to be this jacket from BRAND. It’s versatile enough to translate into the warmer seasons, thanks to its lightweight design.

Oversized silhouettes are a big comfort in winter; you can easily layer underneath.

CELINE SHERIDAN

STYLIST

Holland Cooper High rise jogger jean from Bicester Village

ORP

£129

Village

£87

Holland Cooper

High rise jogger jean
CONSCIOUS FASHION TIP

Embrace cyclical trends – seek out vintage pieces or invest in high-quality denim, such as this pair of jeans from Anine Bing.

Lean into the latest trends

For those well-versed in western-inspired fashion, Celine share her tips for autumn layering. “I'm really into double denim,” she reveals. Imagine a denim jacket under an overcoat for depth, paired with ‘a nice square-toed heeled boot’ for a subtle nod to the trend. Alternatively, embrace fringing, leather or plaid for a daring statement, but remember to strike a balance with your existing wardrobe staples,” she advises.

Americana season
Elevate with accessories

Scarves, hats and gloves offer the perfect canvas to let your personality shine," says Celine, encouraging a bold approach to autumn accessories. Rich hues like deep burgundy and olive green complement the season’s palette, while bold patterns make a statement. Celine’s top pick for autumn? The oversized scarf, keeping you cosy while adding panache. Whether wrapped snug around the neck or elegantly over the shoulders, this versatile accessory exudes both warmth and flair. "I even have a little blanket that I use as a scarf," Celine shares.

Bigger, better warmth
Brunello Cucinelli Slk scarf from Bicester Village

ORP

£380

Village

£228

Brunello Cucinelli

SIlk scarf
STYLE TIP

"For unpredictable weather, I always carry a chunky jumper draped over my shoulders as a scarf," advises Celine. A wardrobe staple that not only adds warmth, but also elevates your style, making it perfect for those transitional autumn days.

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