It’s been a memorable Summer spent travelling, celebrating and strolling around London in my mini skirts and jorts but it’s time to get serious about Autumn/Winter wear. While we’re still getting sunny, blue skies, It wouldn’t be Britain if the temperature didn’t drop without warning on a random Tuesday in October.

There is no one style in London that trumps another, no aesthetic on top, which is what I love most about this city. In terms of my style, I’m in the process of learning to transition from my University wardrobe; a mix of comfy streetwear and flirty party dresses, to curating my own (very slightly more sophisticated) style, fit for my new day-to-day post-graduation. 

Unfortunately, there’s no handover for this shift in style, there’s no guidebook on how to dress when you go from lectures and clubs to networking events and after-work drinks so here’s how im doing it specifically for A/W.

Day-to-day

Starting with a jersey long-sleeve top as the perfect base layer and adding a new texture like wool or knit in a vest or crewneck to add that warmth and oversized shape to my outfit. Playing with lengths when I choose my jacket/coat or scarf is the finishing touch but we’ll circle back to those soon (I have A LOT to say about outerwear and accessories)

Evening Wear

Im not saying I spent my academic tenure being a total club rat, but I kind of did. In the process, I built a collection of mini skirts, cut-out dresses and neon crop tops, a lot of which don’t fit into this new era. However, some of it can still work.

A comfortable heel is key. I got away with wearing whatever trainers I didn’t mind getting stampeded on throughout my University clubbing days, but that won’t work every time, anymore. If you prefer your heels to add some serious inches, look for platforms, supportive ankle straps or chic boots. Not a high-heel person? Mules and kitten heels last got this hot in the 50s, now is your time to grab a pair. My favourites are vintage Dior mules I found on Vinted and eBay.

In terms of outfits, I love looking sexy. Who in their early 20s doesn’t?

But the magic of sexy is, it means something different to everyone. What makes me look and feel my hottest is dark neutral colours (black, brown, grey, khaki) with as much leg as I can show without flashing. I prefer figure-hugging body con for some events but for more casual occasions, baggy, ripped low-waist jeans/ cargos and a bralette with a cropped jacket on top is my go-to. It accentuates the waist while covering up the rest of me.

Your version of sexy might look different and if you’re still figuring it out try experimenting with colours, sequins, patterns, figure-hugging vs relaxed, short vs long.

Accessories and outerwear

For a long time I hated wearing coats, I thought they were covering the best parts of my outfits, they always looked out of place and bulky.

Surprise surprise, I just didn’t have enough variety in my outerwear.

Firstly, my black puffer isn’t going anywhere, she is a staple and a big part of my life but diversifying my outerwear made all the difference, starting with my furs. A fur coat can add so much to an outfit without taking away anything, it builds on the textures in your outfit; for a casual look I throw mine over my straight leg, a grey tracksuit, it looks put together and tasteful whilst staying comfy. For nights out, a longline fur, mini dress and boots always do the job.

With lightweight jackets like cotton trench coats or some leather, I double up the warmth with a chunky scarf. With all my coats being understated in colour, I like for my accessories like scarves and hats to bring that vibrancy back. Pink, green, and orange are my favourites when I want to add a pop of colour.

As a curly hair girl, not every hat works for me. I love snapbacks because I can adjust the size for whatever hairstyle I have but this season, I’ve been living in my satin lined fur trapper hat. They took over late last year and I cant see the hype wearing out any time soon. At the top of my wishlist this year is the Yankees 59Fifty Downflap Cap, it combines the suave, streetstyle-esque of a fitted with the cosy warmth of a fur hat.

I hope this brief overview of my changing style this season is helpful. Finding or redefining your style can be tricky but hopefully, you took something from my journey.

I’ll be back soon as I progress but in the meantime, check out my Instagram for more regular updates on my changing style.

@C1.leon

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