Wardrobe malaise reaches its peak in mid-February, when summery pieces that looked fresh in November become as appealing as leftover Christmas pudding.
That raffia handbag is looking ratty, those harem pants can go back in the genie bottle, and billowing tailoring is feeling flat.
Rising interest rates, the soaring cost of luxury goods and holiday hangovers make spending on a complete new season look challenging for most budgets, but these are the pieces that models, photographers and stylists are prioritising for autumn.
The jacket: Baby blazer
“My seasonal update is the crepe Corta Jacket from P Johnson,” says Melbourne photographer Danielle Castano. “It’s a cropped timeless shape that does the job of a blazer without being a blazer (an item that has been thrashed and now makes me feel basic when I wear it).
“I can wear it in a formal setting at work but also with a white T-shirt and jeans, which is how I’ll definitely get the most wear out of it. It’s a splurge purchase but worthwhile given it’s a timeless piece.”
The fashion editor’s view: Finally, the pendulum has swung from boxy blazers, with cropped coats and jackets revealing long-hidden hips and buttocks. Shrunken and cropped styles have been embraced by Jonathan Anderson at Dior and Matthieu Blazy at Chanel. In other words, they’re here to stay.
Don’t restrict yourself to cropped black jackets. The cropped trench is perfect for shorter people who get lost in the swaths of fabric found in more traditional styles. Cropped check styles, recently worn by Michelle Obama and Jacob Elordi, have unisex appeal.
The handbag: Money bags
“You want handbags to last forever,” says Sydney-based social media commentator Fashion Critical. “I love Australian brand Sans Beast, and they have the bonus of being vegan.”
“I’m looking for a double-duty handbag. Tan or brown bags are my usual go-tos but a gorgeous green will work with a range of outfits. I won’t have to worry about changing bags unless an evening soiree is involved.”
The fashion editor’s view: Colourful accessories are a great way to brighten outfits as we head towards more autumnal tones. Big personalities like Fashion Critical can brandish bright apple greens but explore more sophisticated olive, chartreuse and money green shades if you’re after greater versatility. More rectangular bowler bag styles remain popular, with 1990s hardware adding to the retro appeal.
The dress: A bit on the side
“The visual interest of an asymmetric neckline can elevate a simple dress,” says Melbourne stylist Prue Webb from The Wardrobe Edit. “An asymmetric dress with ruching says ‘party’ without giving the whole game away. They’re perfect if you’ve got narrow shoulders.
“I have my eye on a metallic style from US label Khaite, but it’s really something to save up for.”
The fashion editor’s view: Asymmetry is the conservative alternative to cut-outs, whether it’s taking place at the neckline or the hemline.
Alaia, Max Mara, Roberto Cavalli and The Row have all risked cold-shoulder silhouettes. The sculptural approach makes it perfect for special events and is modest enough for weddings.
The silhouette even has Miranda Priestly’s endorsement, with Meryl Streep wearing a red taffeta asymmetric dress during filming of the Met Gala scenes for the upcoming sequel The Devil Wears Prada 2.
Mid-calf styles in black or deep navy also suit corporate Cinderellas more interested in what to wear to the office than a chicken or beef celebration.
The top: Cashmere economy
“I love Venroy’s cashmere tank and cardigan,” says Melbourne model Ploy Rida. “I’m looking for extremely chic basics that are comfortable and can go with any outfit. The type of basics that you can dress up and look cool without having to put effort in.
“I know that it’s still hot right now but give me cashmere anything.”
The fashion editor’s view: Cashmere pieces are normally kept in winter storage, but it’s time to think beyond snuggly sweaters.
Rida has the right idea with tank tops, but also take a look at cashmere T-shirts. The cocktail cashmere T-shirt is trickling down from luxury collections at The Row, Prada and Ralph Lauren, providing a more polished solution to trans-seasonal dressing.
Most knits are heavy enough to hold their shape by knock-off time in the office and light enough to keep you cool under pressure. In the evening, add jewellery or a jacket, and you’ve finally discovered what the smart casual dress code means.
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