Autumn Exudes Main Character Energy—I’ll Be Embracing These 6 Fashionable Movie Inspirations

Autumn Exudes Main Character Energy—I’ll Be Embracing These 6 Fashionable Movie Inspirations

      Welcome to the Gen Z Mood, where I—Who What Wear UK's 27-year-old social media editor—share my mood of the month and the most exciting finds I’ve come across while scrolling. I'm constantly on the lookout for new and budget-friendly ways to shop trends, and I’m bringing you along for the journey. The mood: Reference dressing.

      Autumn brings a distinct main character vibe. It certainly captures our attention. The changing weather is hard to miss, and the shorter evenings send our social calendars into disarray. For me, September represents a time to shed the routines I’ve fallen into over the past nine months and start fresh—especially regarding my wardrobe. I’m not alone in this; just last week, TikTok users launched a viral trend dubbing September as "The new January," arguing that it's a far better time to set resolutions, and they may be onto something. This season calls for a sartorial reset, which is when its main character energy shines brightest.

      Our affection for autumn isn't solely about the mood or the back-to-school vibe; it's also tied to the films and TV shows that we connect with this time of year. Romantic scenes set against a backdrop of falling leaves and thoughtfully styled characters provide excellent fashion inspiration. The silver screen has long served as a nostalgic reference for personal style. Iconic movie and TV moments stick with us and influence our fashion choices. Consider Billy Crystal’s cable knit sweater as he walks through a golden-hued, tree-lined Central Park in Nora Ephron’s When Harry Met Sally, or Gwyneth Paltrow’s luxurious yet quirky fur coat as Margot Tenenbaum in The Royal Tenenbaums.

      These cinematic moments can inform our autumn wardrobes even if we’re not consciously aware of it. This is the source of inspiration for this month's Gen Z mood. I found myself liking and saving more and more TikTok carousels featuring "autumn movie outfits" and, upon diving into my wardrobe (after tucking away my summer linens), I realized there are countless film and TV references hidden among my clothes. Plus, isn't this an ideal time to indulge in your favorite autumn-themed films? After all, it is cozy season.

      Keep scrolling for the movie and TV characters who are inspiring my autumn wardrobe this season.

      **Penny Lane, Almost Famous**

      If we’re being completely honest, don't we all have a Letterboxed top four saved just in case that infamous mini mic ever comes our way? In the unlikely event that I find myself in a movie hot seat, Cameron Crowe’s Almost Famous will definitely be on my list. But beyond the film's nostalgic allure (and fantastic soundtrack), it's the outfits, particularly Penny Lane’s wardrobe, that truly resonate with me.

      This is where the film comes alive for me; Kate Hudson’s outfits are a joyful blend of ‘60s bohemia and youthful flair. From mod minis to flowy linen blouses, while they might seem summer-like at first glance, the textures and layering throughout the film scream autumn. The cords, suede, boots, and of course, that unforgettable Penny Lane coat made of brown velvet and lined with fur. It’s no coincidence that cult outerwear brand Charlotte Simone named its best-selling jacket after Penny Lane herself. These textures represent autumn dressing for me and inspired this Penny-themed edit. Scroll on for my shopping recommendations to achieve the look—and if you don’t shop, definitely watch the film!

      **Shop Penny's Wardrobe:**

      - ALIGNE: Corrie Denim Flock Mini Skirt

      - Jigsaw: Jigsaw Western Knee High Suede Boots, Chocolate

      - MANGO: Corduroy Flared Jeans - Women | Mango United Kingdom

      **Sally Albright, When Harry Met Sally**

      It feels wrong to discuss autumn aesthetics without mentioning one of the internet’s favorite icons of romance and leaf-filled landscapes. Nora Ephron, with her impressive collection of ‘90s movies, set the cultural standard for what constitutes a great autumn rom-com. Naturally, the wardrobes of her characters have become iconic due to this success. Every autumn, searches for “When Harry Met Sally Aesthetic,” “You’ve Got Mail,” and “Sleepless in Seattle” surge on platforms like Pinterest, with users pinning scenes, outfits, and interiors for their mood boards.

      I hesitate to choose favorites, but when it comes to style and planning autumn outfits, Meg Ryan’s character Sally Albright in When Harry Met Sally is my primary source of inspiration this time of year. Special mentions also go to Annie’s perfect ‘90s updos in Sleepless in Seattle and Kathleen Kelly’s dedication to a roll neck in You’ve Got Mail. However, Sally’s vibrant reds, bermuda shorts, knee-high socks, and loafers combo feels particularly relevant to current trends. Scroll on for a modern interpretation of the classic ‘90s outfits she wore in the film.

      **Shop Sally's Wardrobe:**

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Autumn Exudes Main Character Energy—I’ll Be Embracing These 6 Fashionable Movie Inspirations

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