WIND, rain and chilly temperatures – there’s a lot to keep in mind when curating the perfect autumn outfit.
But while some staple pieces, such as a trench coat or tailored trousers, can instantly elevate your look, there are also plenty of items that will achieve the opposite.
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By now, most fashionistas will know that Uggs – once loved by many celebrities – have had their day, as have flimsy mini skirts paired with knee-high boots.
However, according to Fabulous Fashion Assistant Emily Regan, there are other common picks that make you look lower class and not up-to-date with the latest trends.
From white trainers to coats with fur hoods, here is what Emily strongly urges you to ditch from your wardrobe this autumn if you want to dress elegant.
Designer logos
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While you may have forked out a fortune for that latest Gucci top, it won’t do any favours to how others perceive you, The Sun fashion whizz warned.
”Many people assume that wearing clothes with bold brand logos is fashionable, but in reality, it often has the opposite effect,” Emily said.
”Instead of looking stylish, it can make you look like a walking advertisement and even cheapen your overall look.”
Instead, choose ”well-made, unbranded pieces that fit properly” to appear more refined and expensive – and plenty of high-street retailers, such as Zara and H&M offer affordable options.
It’s also worth checking out second-hand shops and marketplaces like Vinted and eBay where you can find true gems for a fraction of the real retail price.
”I’ve lived by the belief that true style isn’t about where you shop, it’s about how you choose to put your outfits together.”
Coats with fur hoods
As the colder season fast approaches us, many stores will be stocking up on jackets with fur hoods – in fact, you can already find them online on places like Shein and River Island.
Sure, there’s no denying that this wardrobe piece will keep you toasty once the temperatures start plummeting – but according to Emily, this is one of the biggest fashion sins.
She said: ”There’s nothing that cheapens a winter look faster than a coat with a faux fur hood.
”The halo of stiff, shiny and suspiciously uniform fur rarely whispers luxury.
”The silhouette has been churned out by every fast fashion store in black, navy and khaki colourways, each indistinguishable from the next.
”It gives the impression that you’ve not changed your style for years and have just brought it back out of the loft for another season of wear.
”Although, they do keep you warm so as far as practicality is involved, it’s not all bad but in a season where your coat should be the star of your outfit, the faux fur look is a shortcut to looking dated and basic.”
Fashion tips to make you look rich
Fashion Tips to Elevate Your Look
- Invest in Classic Pieces
–Quality Over Quantity: Prioritise well-made, timeless items like a tailored blazer, a little black dress, or a crisp white shirt.
Neutral Colors: Opt for neutral shades such as black, white, beige, and navy, which are versatile and exude sophistication.
- Accessorize Wisely
Statement Pieces: Invest in a few high-quality accessories like a designer handbag, a classic watch, or elegant jewelry.
Minimalist Approach: Less is more. Choose one or two standout accessories to avoid looking cluttered.
- Tailoring is Key
Perfect Fit: Tailored clothing can make even affordable items look high-end. Ensure your clothes fit perfectly by having them altered if necessary.
- Maintain Your Wardrobe
Iron and Steam: Wrinkled clothes can ruin an outfit. Keep your garments wrinkle-free with regular ironing or steaming.
Proper Care: Follow care instructions to keep your clothes looking new. Dry clean when necessary and store items properly.
- Footwear Matters
Quality Shoes: Invest in a few pairs of high-quality shoes. Classic pumps, loafers, and sleek boots can elevate any outfit.
Conditioning: Keep your shoes in good condition by cleaning and polishing them regularly.
- Monochrome Outfits
Single Color Palette: Dressing in one color or varying shades of a single color can make you look polished and put-together.
- Attention to Detail
Grooming: Well-groomed hair, nails, and skin are crucial. A polished appearance starts with personal care.
Subtle Makeup: Opt for a natural makeup look that enhances your features without overpowering them.
- Layering
Sophisticated Layers: Layering can add depth and interest to your outfit. Think blazers over blouses, or sweaters over shirts.
- Confidence is Key
Own Your Look: Confidence can make any outfit look more expensive. Stand tall and wear your clothes with pride.
By incorporating these tips into your fashion routine, you can effortlessly achieve a luxurious and sophisticated look without breaking the bank.
White trainers
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White trainers – one of the very few styles of footwear that goes with practically anything and everything.
However, that is also a part of the problem, Emily explained.
She said: ”In recent seasons, the Adidas Samba has reshaped the trainer scene, making colourful options the new go-to.
”With so many vibrant styles available, choosing a bold pair signals that you’ve put real thought into your outfit from head to toe (literally).
”It’s a low-effort way to tap into dopamine dressing, plus, lets be honest white trainers look scuffed after a single wear, and dirty trainers are never a good look.”
Silver instead of gold / mixing metals
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”Gold has always carried more value than silver, both in monetary terms and as a symbol of wealth and status,” said Emily.
”Over time, it’s come to represent higher prestige, while silver (which is more accessible) is often perceived as cheaper in comparison.”
However, she added that this metal ”absolutely does have its place, especially when paired with cooler tones” and those with a fairer complexion suit silver better.
”One thing I’m firmly against though is mixing metals.
”To me, it feels like a shortcut and detracts from a polished look.
”If you want to appear more elevated, consistency is key, even down to the zips on your bags, buckles on your shoes and hardware on your jackets.”
Viral Topshop trend making a comeback
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While thousands of fashionistas were sent into frenzy after Topshop made an epic comeback, the relaunch has also ”reignited conversation around the iconic ‘Joni’ skinny jeans”.
The key theme tied to the brand’s return is nostalgia, and for good reason.
The skinny jeans had us all in a chokehold in the early two thousands – but that’s where they belong, Emily said.
”Wearing them now feels forced and cheapens an outfit, especially distressed styles.
”While many people gravitate towards skinnies for their leg-lengthening or slimming effect, a straight leg cut can achieve the same illusion whilst looking much more elevated.”
Cropped jumpers
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Jumpers are a must when keeping your body warm, especially when out for a long walk – or stuck inside in an office with the A/C blasting full-on.
However, there’s one particular style that can be quite tricky to pull off – the viral cropper jumper.
”This is less about the cropped jumper itself as it is about how it’s worn,” said Emily, adding the design just ”feels impractical”.
”It’s a garment caught in limbo, and the frayed-hem versions are the worst offenders – often looking more like you’ve taken a pair of scissors to a perfectly good jumper.”
That said, our fashion expert added that ”cropped jumpers can work as a layering piece if styled thoughtfully”.
However, ”when paired with low waisted jeans, belly button on display, the look feels out of place for autumn, as if you’ve simply got dressed in the dark”.
Suede Chelsea Boots
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No autumn wardrobe is complete without a pair of Chelsea boots – they’re indeed the staple piece that seemingly will never go out of fashion.
However, when paired with suede, the classic boots can turn into a disaster – as the material is not weather-friendly in rainy conditions.
Emily said: ”It’s like a throwback to 2010, mainly when paired with tights and a floral dress.
”Fashion is out of its grunge ‘Kate Moss girl’ era so instead of elevating an outfit, the Chelsea boot often drags it down.
”Ultimately it’s the proportions that make them feel off, bulky and inelegant, more like something you’d wear with your school uniform than a polished fashion choice.”
