It’s official, my journey as an honourary Parisian has begun but unfortunately, the gloomy forecast has followed me from the UK. Whereas this time of year I’d usually be swathed in cotton-rich frocks and open-toe sandals, I’ve reverted to closed-toe shoes and lightweight outerwear. As a result, I’ve been gravitating towards the green, ochre, and brown colourways I don in the cooler months and envisaging my dream autumn wardrobe.
Come rain or shine, dresses are my favourite pieces to invest in. I’ve analysed the trends and embraced some revived shapes as they have a timeless appeal — from bandeau silhouettes and column maxis, to (dare I say it) shorter hemlines — a wildcard for me. I am in Paris, after all.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been an avid list writer. I pen everything from wants and desires to daily pursuits and nonsensical rambles on my notes page. The same sentiment has trickled into my fashion-buying process. I’ve fully entered pre-autumn-mode and for August, I’m carrying out an inventory, or shopping guide.
Not only is August my birthday month, but it’s also a special time of year, as the junction signifies the melting point of the seasons. This year the weather is unsettled, so autumn feels like it’s just on the horizon, and Christmas is a quiet hum in the background.
Accessories are worth noting, and my, have we been spoilt with options! I’m always big on earrings but now in every sense of the word. I’ve introduced overstated styles into my arsenal and already know I’m likely to wear them for years to come with pared-back ensembles. Organic-shaped jewels have taken preference, shell adornments are highly sought-after, and belts that were once lacklustre are now a star feature on outfits. Not to mention bags, which are become more plush and in rich, earthy hues.
Suffice it to say, it seems August is a good month for fashion, here’s to hoping that transcends to the weather. Here are 35 pieces that I feel most excited about. If you’re obsessed with dresses and jewels, this one is for you.
If I didn’t already own a black bandeau dress, this would be first on my list. Between the sculpted bandeau and flounced skirt, it’s a piece worth lauding!
I’ve seen hundreds of trench coats this year and I think this may be the best one yet.
Christopher Esber’s latest moss-hued designs are inspired by Ray Crooke’s landscapes and depictions of the ocean — fluid and glossy with a hint of tropical. These revealing splices have become synonymous with his designs.
If you’ve been around these parts for a while you may know my love of voluminous skirts and earthy tones, so I was excited by Esse Studios’ latest drop. The pinched pleats make this even fuller. I’d pair this with a fitted bandeau top.
I love when I stumble across a classic, well-made and affordable piece on the high street. The sleeve detail is so sweet. You can wear it as a bardot, or with the shoulders propped up. The best part — it’s available in UK sizes 6 – 24.
I’ve appreciated uniquely-hued accessories for a few years now and A/W 2023 has granted us plenty already. I’m in awe of this bag by Massimo Dutti — one of the most luxe I’ve seen on the high street.
Since autumn 2022, I’ve been searching for the perfect streamlined mary-jane to suit my tastes. This style has my name written all over it.
Folklore the Label is an artisanal brand inspired by geometric shaping and its latest drop is nothing short of excellence. This Moss colourway is a hue we’ve been leaning into over the past few years. I have a feeling it’s here to stay.
With this seashell-adorned necklace, you’ll never feel too far from the ocean.
You can’t dispute the excellence of Victoria Beckham’s designs. The ruched waist detail with the rounded sleeve makes it an LBD to rival the rest.
Although this is a voluminous style, the fabrication lends it a casual appeal, meaning you can style it with anything from heels to flip flops. There are many bandeaus on the market but none I’ve seen with a gathered corset.
If you ask me, contemporary labels are becoming far more appealing than top-end designers. Case in point – Advene’s swoon-worthy accessories. This triangular-shaped design has many convertible elements to suit all outfits and occasions.
These opulent jewels are best worn with bandeau necklines, to show off the dramatic length!
After the success of its A/W 2022 pieces, By Malene Birger is back with another slew of elevated designs. Of course, it had to include more perforated knits.
Lil Milan grants us this concave structural pearl choker which symbolises the ebb and flow of waves. Perhaps one of the most directional pearl pieces I’ve seen to date.
You’ll only know how difficult it is to find a good belt when you’re on the hunt for a good belt. This one exceeded my expectations. The colourway and quality is something to be applauded.
The details are outstanding—from the sleeves to the pintuck stitching and ruching. This is also a lesson in patience. I had this exact dress on my wishlist at £695 last year and now you can find it on The Outnet for £383.
Between the scrunched straps, wooden sole and linen fabrication this is a completely unique take on the mary-jane.
I love simple pieces like this that (contrary to popular belief) can indeed be worn throughout the year. Add knitwear during the winter, and wear it as is when the weather is warm.
Call me a mermaid because at any given opportunity I’m wearing seashells as an ode to the ocean. I’m behind the directional stance of jewellery this season. These earrings lend a rustic texture and overstated element that I’m so enamoured by. Wear them with a pared-back outfit and let the jewels do all of the talking.
This standout piece is where fluid glamour meets a languid silhouette. It’s so easy to wear and there are so many ways to style it.
This form-fitting top is crafted from a slightly sheer silk georgette and it’s puckered throughout. It’ll breathe life into your usual basics.
J&M designs are quiet but oh so intentional. The gold buckle is a chic accent that will match most of my jewels.
Just when you thought top-half dressing can feel uninspiring COS inspire with its modern designs. Although this top features ruching and asymmetry, it’ll slot perfectly into the wardrobe of a minimalist.
I’m a firm believer that getting dressed starts with undergarments that make you feel your best. I can’t stop thinking about these briefs. Designed with a ’90s essence and crafted from silk, it’s bound to make you feel special.
Khaite’s ruched top inspired many cocooned styles and this Reformation dress is one of my favourites yet. It’ll make a great occasion dress.
Aeyde masters modern footwear with a nostalgic appeal (if only school shoe designs were this chic!). The double knot feature and low block heel drew me to this design. It’s a transitional shoe that can be worn from now.
Nanushka is another designer that has a special place in my heart. This newly released design is more cropped than my usual pieces but I couldn’t not include it for its colourway is divine!
I’m a stickler for quality fabrications. There’s often a lack when it comes to suiting but Laura Pitharas exclusively uses sustainably certified materials. This blazer, for example, comprises a 100% wool outer, with a viscose and cotton lining, whereas the majority of suiting is lined with polyester.
I own Skims’ original design and it fast became one of my wardrobe staples. I adore this style equally! The delicate laced trim is subtle but it transforms the style completely.
Another great designer-inspired bag on the high street (in that mushroom colourway we love)!
Indie label No Emotions recently came to my attention and I think it should be on your radar, too. I adore the simplicity of this LBD. It features a cut-out back detail and a high neck to balance the proportions of the design. It’s certainly playing a part in my graduation towards minis.
The ruffled adornment turns this simple slip design into something with a whimsical and romantic element. It’s an easy-to-wear but charming piece.
I’m astonished by the design of this bag. I’ve seen it in person and the construction looks every bit as special. It’s worth noting these earthy hues, as you’ll be seeing more of them in the lead up the autumn.
