Our 2026 edit of styles to take you through the season
After a long, hot summer, the shift into autumn demands confident yet versatile dresses. Turbulent weather during this transitional period calls for clever layering and accessories, because on some days it will be warm enough for flip-flops while, on others, only knitwear will do. Here’s our pick of the best new-season pieces and how to style them.
Long-sleeved heroes
A long-sleeve dress or shirt dress will cope with whatever the weather throws at you. Pull on a jersey or knitted fabric (for the first time in months) and, on cooler days team with pull-on boots, or reach for sandals when the sun shines.
Girls’ night dress
Don’t give up your sleeveless dresses or a cap-sleeve dress until the weather forces you to! Maximise wear until winter by opting for styles in heavier fabrics, such as denim, that fall below the knee, and layer up with a bomber or leather jacket.
Statement print dresses
Plaid or animal-print dresses look stylish yet not too put-together. This autumn there are flattering designs with drawstring waists for added definition; tie a neutral cardigan around your shoulders in case of chilly snaps.
Clever layering
Layering a sleeveless dress over a lightweight long-sleeved top or a neat crew-neck sweater is one of the best transitional wardrobe tricks going. Feeling bolder? Try wearing a dress over matching trousers, and add definition by cinching a belt around the waist.
Perfect pairs
Say ‘yes’ to the dress, but then…what shoes to pair them with? As the temperature cools, our attention turns to loafers – style with socks in new-season hues of burgundy, brown or mustard yellow. Meanwhile, low-heeled black boots go with everything and are comfy enough for all-day wear.
New-season accessories
Shoulder bags bring that fresh, contemporary touch to your autumn wardrobe; this season it’s all about a pop of red to bring minimalist outfits to life. And no, it’s never too early to start planning for cosy outerwear or to uncover your dream scarf.
