A change of season is the perfect time for a wardrobe reset but that doesn’t just mean buying lots of new things. In fact, now more than ever the traditional concept of ‘trends’ is feeling less and less fitting.

Thankfully this was reflected in the autumn 20 catwalks that saw a shift towards more wearable, versatile and timeless pieces – far more inline with the new ‘dressing from the waist up’ for zoom calls or looking for easy to style pieces with minimum effort involved.

Stylist, Melissa Murrell tells us how…

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Autumn/Winter 2020

Here lies the beauty of the season ahead; its full of classics that are revisited every year that can easily be paired with your go-to jeans – they just have some small tweaks to make them feel updated. So it’s all about investing in well-thought-through buys that will make your wardrobe more hardworking than ever before, featuring well-loved pieces that can be styled for many seasons to come.

Think neutral tonal colours including camel-coloured coats, leather separates, statement collars (made for zoom), high-waisted jeans, knitted vests (thanks Gucci), knee-high and chunky boots.

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Knitted Dresses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At the top of my wish list is a knitted dress; relaxed enough to be appropriate for low-key celebrations (of no more than 6 of course!) but easily dressed up for special occasions – a perfect example is Reiss’s off the shoulder knit dress in stone. Pair with heels, trainers or chunky boots to create a versatile hardworking piece.

A great lower priced alternative is Zara’s knitted dress with shoulder pads. A bit too chilly for a dress? Layer with a belted jacket, oversized shirt, leather coat or your trusted utility jacket.

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Winter Coats:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The humble camel coat (wool or trench) has long been considered something of a hero when it comes to outerwear—and for good reason. Chic, flattering, timeless and versatile this wardrobe staple is something of a hero when it comes to outerwear. Take a look Zara’s chic wool-blend cape coat (that I’ve just brought myself) as well as H&M’s scarf coat.  If that’s a little heavy to wear right now then check out & Other Stories trench coat and if the budget allows then treat yourself to Gucci’s draped trench coat. If you’re looking for something a little different add a checked pattern to the traditional coat for a more directional look.

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Sumptuous knits:

 

Think granny cardigans, sleeveless tank tops (now known as knitted vests) and roll neck jumpers. Purchase in neutral tones so you can guarantee they’ll go with your staple go-to jeans, leather separates or pleated skirt.  Arket, H&M’s, &other Stories, Reiss and (of course) Zara are my go-to stores for affordable knits that wash well.

 

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 Leather Separates

 

The beauty of faux leather and leather separates is that they add a directional element to any outfit. Throw on a pair of leather trousers or shirt, keep everything else simple and let the leather do it’s magic!

 

 

 

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Oversized Pieces:

 

Throw on a shirt, blouse or jumper with oversized collars, sleeves or shoulders and you’ll instantly update some timeless classics.

 

 

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Boots

Chunky black boots are both practical and of-the-moment and when paired with even the most basic of jumpers and jeans combo will make you look as current as can be.  However, if they’re not your cup of tea then a great compromise is the hiker boot (remember Holly Willoughby on I’m celebrity get me out of here?). Thanks to Holly the Grenson boot became a firm favourite but try M&S brown hiker boot for a less expensive option and Zara’s suede boots for more of a classic look.

 

 

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With over 15 years of experience of styling real women with real lives, Melissa Murrell has built a successful career in not only styling the everyday woman but also in teaching others how to become Personal Stylists. Creating maximum style with the minimum of effort for her busy clients drives every styling session she undertakes. Melissa has worked with hundreds of clients of all shapes and sizes to teach them how to dress for their body shape and how to create a mix and match capsule wardrobe that is relevant to their lifestyle needs and budget, making getting dressed in the mornings a stress free event! The result? Look great, feel confident and finally have something to wear!