It’s Autumn, and our tiny tops and sun-stained denims have been officially forced into hibernation for the foreseeable future. Those of us that have experienced September in Edinburgh know that the change in both weather and wardrobe happens almost overnight. We expect it, we see it coming, we’ve been through it before – but somehow October is looming and some of us are still clinging onto our loose linens and other Summer staples in a frantic state of denial about the sunny seasons passed and the chillier ones to come.
It’s true. One day you’re at the beach, cold can in one hand the next you’re stood before a mirror in the bedroom of your barely insulated student flat (thank you, Edinburgh landlords) wondering how many layers is too many layers before you start to look like a knock-off Santa.
But fear not: all hope for a solid yet chic Autumn wardrobe is not lost.
Allow my own empirical research (AKA a lot of personal retail therapy) to act as a seasonal cheat-sheet about what trends may be best to avoid, and what ones are guaranteed to make you feel as confident as they do cosy over the next few months.
Here’s a trend I can get behind: ‘frugal-chic’. I know what you’re thinking because I, too, am a trend cynic. But whatever you want to call it, its undeniable that shop shelves are pushing us towards exactly what ‘frugal-chic’ aims to emulate – but this time on a budget.
‘Frugal-chic’ is where sophisticated elegance meets savvy spending. So, with popular style concepts this season heavily inspired by the classic minimalism of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy or Zoe Kravitz, it’s never been easier for style, quality, and conscious consumer practice to collaborate. I’m thinking a tough pair of brown boots; a black duster coat; a basic knit of any burgundy, brown, or sage; some simple bootcut jeans. Not only can these classics – if bought wisely – be bought new to last forever, but they are also staples in most of our favourite second hand and charity shops.
(PSA for all Edinburgh students: the best charity shops are on Leith Walk! Run!)
The best part is that with this push for longevity in fashion promotes materials which are high in functionality and most importantly, warm. Our wools, suedes, cottons, and corduroys are not only durable, but they can be restyled endlessly – worn with both the purpose and sophistication that the ‘frugal-chic’ mindset embraces. So, whether you’re into the slouchier suedes or a more preppy look, there’s no time like this Autumn to stop chasing fast-fashion synthetics and put ‘frugal-chic’ into practice.
It’s also as much about being creative as it is saving money. Get resourceful. Yes, take this as a personal license to raid the treasure troves which are your parents and grandparents’ wardrobes. We can all be sleek with a side of smarts this Autumn.