Time to layer up

For Her

Bold belted coats, oversized work shirts and single-breasted blazers are the cornerstones of style for women this AW21. Wrap up in dressing-gown like outerwear, as seen on the runways of Tod’s, Les Copains and Issey Miyake, or keep things casual in a woollen maxi dress from the likes of Ted Baker, Reiss and French Connection.  

Tailored co-ords in heritage checks (think Paul Smith and Max Mara) offer a strong day-to-night look that’s also workwear worthy, while grunge-inspired little black dresses are a key transitional item to invest in as the days shorten. Accessorise with a studded belt from The Kooples, chunky boots from Dr Marten and chain link jewellery from Thomas Sabo or Pandora, making sure to stick to a palette of black with splashes of silver.   

If opting for colour this season, the brighter the better. Primary pops of blue, green and yellow (as seen at longchamp, Jil Sander and Salvatore Ferragamo) are all on trend, while this season’s undoubted colour hero, red, is a must-have investment. Think letterbox and London bus hues.  

Loose fitting and relaxed separates are in for autumn winter 21, so sidestep fitted skirts and trousers in favour of roomy styles with a slightly utilitarian feel. All Saints, Guess and Mint Velvet are your best bet for these. For smarter days, bold checked trousers and woollen midi skirts layered with roll necks and blazers (think ‘90s Clueless vibes) will show you can balance style and business.  

For Him

Menswear embraces a retro aesthetic for AW21 with 70s inspired sepia tones, abstract patterned sweaters, and suede all making a comeback. Red colour blocking is also in, with Louis Vuitton, Ermenegildo Zegna and Jil Sander among the menswear designers ramping up the brightness in their collections.  

Opt for bus red polo necks, layered beneath black suiting or switch the look around with a bright blazer (single breasted is this season’s shape for him) paired with a subdued shirt from the likes of Reiss or Boss. Letting red be the star is the key to balancing this look so be sure to offset the drama with accessories and shoes in unassuming monochrome and tonal shades.  

‘70-style suede is also filtering back into wardrobes for AW21, along with heritage checks and country-inspired tweeds. If head-to-toe is too much for you, a simple The Kooples jacket paired with a Ted Baker chino offers a subtle nod to the trend. Top it off with a flat cap, knotted scarf and leather gloves from Barbour for extra style points.  

Elsewhere, brightly coloured knitted sweaters in a spectrum of graphic prints made their debut on the runways of Loewe, Etro and Dolce & Gabbana while unstructured separates stole the show at Prada and Giorgio Armani. This less formal look is great for weekends or working-from-home days, combining utilitarian style with functional details, for a more mature take on contemporary streetwear.