Leah Elner shares a guide to looking chic when the temperatures drop.

Autumnal style is a certain go-to for many of us.  

The idea of thick cashmere knits, burgundy sweater dresses and soft fur trimmed floor length coats makes the art of dressing one of the most positive elements synonymous with the colder seasons.

Here are four fashion guidelines to follow if you want to impress with your autumn wardrobe:

  • Statement coats are, with respect, the most cherished article of clothing during the colder seasons. However, don’t limit your A/W outerwear to just the imperative coat – flex with the idea of a striking cape. Pair with dark wash jeans, a fine knit and winter boots for a paired down yet powerful look – the cape offers an air of edgy sophistication for those times you call to be noticed. 
Black Cape with slits – Zara (€59.95), Brown Polo Jumper – Dunnes Stores (€15), Jessie skinny fit jeans for Dunnes Store (€25), Brown Knee High Boots – Stylist Own, Jewellery – Stylists own. Photography by Ben Donovan.
  • Layering is the key to survival during the winter months and offers a chance to enhance your creativity. A sleeveless knit jumper layered on top of a shirt is an interesting twist on the time-honoured turtle neck. Its absence of sleeves will make it work hard as a layering piece for Autumn. 
Silk Slip – Debenhams Bridal (Current Sale €20), Textured V-Neck Jumper – M&S (€22.50), Brown Wool Coat – Zara (€139.00), Brown Knee High Boots – Stylist’s own. Photography by Ben Donovan. 
  • Texture, texture, texture – the art of combining two fabrics to create a wonderful sultry and alluring guise is a pleasing skill this time of year. Balance an oversized knit with a softer, slinkier fabric. Pair a ubiquitous slip with a similar hue cashmere knit – perfect for a classy 9-5 look with heeled boots or pair with chic sandals for weekend drinks. 
  • The weather has you questioning that heavy-duty parka, opt for a paisley print skirt that was omnipresent during summer. Elevate with knee-high boots for a refreshing bohemian chic look.
Brown Polo Jumper – Dunnes Stores (€15), Chiffon Skirt – Mango (€59.95), Black Leather Jacket – Stylist’s own, Knee high boots – Stylist’s own. Photography by Ben Donovan.

Words by Leah Elner

Styling by Leah Elner

Modelled by Claire Battersby 

Photography by Ben Donovan.