As autumn rolls around and the days become decidedly chillier and darker, there is a palpable pang of reluctance in the air as the floaty dresses and bikinis are put away for another year. But there is a delicious perk to the onset of winter, because a change of season is the perfect excuse to change up your wardrobe and invest in some cosy new outfits and accessories.
Naturally, Bond Street has the best new-season buys that will keep you both cosy and ahead of the fashion elite.
Beautiful bags
Why should it just be school kids who get to enjoy a shiny new bag at the start of term? OK, so returning to your desk after a summer holiday isn’t quite the same thing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t recycle your battered old backpack and upgrade to a gorgeous new tote. British Vogue has cited that unstructured, slouchy bags in butter-soft leathers and suedes should be on your radar this season. Ralph Lauren’s beautiful, bucket-shaped suede tote, £545, is made from Italian calfskin and comes in three different sizes and the choice of a rich caramel hue or ’90s-esque Dark Jean. But the daddy of all oversized, slouchy bags is Louis Vuitton’s new All In One MM bag, £2,530, in supple cowhide leather. It’ll draw envious glances from your colleagues and is versatile and roomy enough to house absolutely everything. And, if you’re still in recovery from seeing Beyoncé on tour this summer, you’ll be glad to hear that tassels and cowboy chic are still bang on trend. The Hamilton Moderne Small Signature Logo satchel by Michael Kors, £365, is a stylish little number that’s both playful and practical.
Best foot forward
Many a pumpkin-spiced-latte-cosy-sweater fashionista will be more than happy to hang up their Havaianas and embrace fall in a pair of knee-high boots. And they don’t come more cutting-edge than Jil Sander’s over-the-knee leather boots, £1,900. The exaggerated bootlegs are certainly statement, but don’t be put off by the avant-garde silhouette. Team with a mini skirt or short dress for a sexy yet stylish aesthetic that plays with size and proportion. On the opposite end of the spectrum are Max Mara’s subtle two-tone suede leather mules, £490. These comfy flats have a collapsible back and can be worn as a clog, should the mood take you.
OTT outerwear
Coats in winter? Groundbreaking. While coats are, naturally, a core winter investment, it’s easy to slip into the pattern of wearing the same, tired number you’ve been sporting for years and never treating yourself to something new. So why not push the boat out this winter? Oversized, architectural and bold styles are de rigueur this season, and the punky new belt detail leather jacket, £4,500, from Alexander McQueen ticks all the right boxes and more. The bold buckle detail around the neck and voluminous proportions are eye-catching, while the cinched waist is flattering. It will set you back a pretty penny but it’s a true investment piece that will look even better with age and wear. Similarly, the cropped jacket, £2,990, by Victoria Beckham is an absolute scene-stealer, but also eminently versatile and stylish with its exposed shearling and rusty brown hue.
Cool and cosy
Winter can be bleak, but a drop in temperature also means getting snuggly in cosy, comfy knitwear. Every cloud, and all that. Jumpers and cardigans are wardrobe staples that one can never have too many of – mainly because there are so many different styles and variations out there. Case in point is this striking Lace Insert long-sleeved jumper, £1,090, by Stella McCartney. It’s slouchy and oversized but unashamedly feminine with its lace panelling detail and low-cut neckline. Obsessed. If you’re after a more fitted number, try Miu Miu’s cashmere and leather zipper cardigan, £2,600, which gives a mod silhouette if teamed with a short skirt and mary janes or knee-high boots. Finally, graphic prints and bold logos are a fun way to jazz up a simple piece of knitwear. And opting for a timeless design like the Burberry equestrian knight – a logo dating back to 1901 which was re-introduced to the iconic British fashion house in 2023 by newly appointed chief creative officer Daniel Lee – is a savvy choice. Try the new EKD wool cashmere sweater, £895, to showcase your fashion credentials in style. Because subtlety is so last season…
Shop these looks and more on Bond Street and give your wardrobe a seasonal update.