It's summer outdoors, but autumn is on my wish list—here are the pre-fall items our editors are saving for later…
(Image credit: Rohe, Jimmy Choo, DeMellier, With Nothing Underneath, Net-a-Porter, Toteme, Selfridges)
Even the most summer-enthusiastic editors would concur that there’s a specific highlight in the fashion calendar that we eagerly anticipate: that transitional period when the temperatures remain warm, yet new season collections begin to emerge. Before you cringe at the idea of cable knit sweaters, pre-autumn fashion isn't about diving into thick layers just yet—instead, it focuses on acquiring versatile, luxury items that seamlessly connect what you can wear now with what you'll be able to wear later. Picture elegantly tailored blazers draped over linen dresses, later paired with knitwear and jeans, or classic loafers matched beautifully with flowy dresses or straight-leg trousers that guarantee versatility all year long. It’s important to note that the top pre-autumn luxury purchases aren’t dictated by fleeting fads; they are pieces that subtly uplift your current wardrobe, offering longevity that stretches far beyond a single season. With that in mind, I asked my fellow editors about the items they've been considering for the upcoming months, whether they’re concentrating on one significant investment or refreshing their capsules with several elevated essentials. Curious about how Who What Wear UK editors navigate this transitional phase? Here are the designer items we’re adding to our wish lists ahead of autumn's official arrival.
Natalie Munro, News Writer
(Image credit: Who What Wear) Shop Natalie's Picks:
Rixo
Karia Satin Top in Black
"If you thought Rixo was solely about beautiful summer dresses, think again. Their blouses and skirts are just as suitable for sandals on a warm day, and they can also be layered with a suede jacket and knee-high boots for the autumn season."
"This vibrant blue hue halted my scrolling. Although COS' merino cardigan comes in six hues, this striking blue stands out (quite literally), and I would gladly wear it repeatedly with jeans, tailored trousers, and slip skirts from now until winter's end."
SAINT LAURENT
Leather Jacket
"I'm eagerly anticipating leather weather, especially with Saint Laurent's chic funnel neck bomber. It encapsulates all my fondest autumn memories—crisp mornings, snug layering, and crunchy leaves."
ME+EM
Side Stripe Barrel Trouser
"With a vacation coming up and several leisurely weekends ahead, I've been searching for casual yet polished options. These Me + Em trousers are the perfect blend of smart trousers and loungewear that look effortlessly chic."
Poppy Nash, Managing Editor
(Image credit: Poppy Nash) Shop Poppy's Picks:
With Nothing Underneath
Sóller Shirt: Fine Poplin, Cobalt Blue X Lucy Williams
"A crisp shirt is an all-season essential in my wardrobe, but With Nothing Underneath's stunning blue Sóller style might just take the place of my usual white staple. I envision wearing it with white linen trousers on my honeymoon later this year and underneath a wool coat upon return."
Massimo Dutti
Medium Braided Nappa Leather Bag
"While Massimo Dutti is well-known on the high street, they maintain premium quality at a competitive price. This braided leather bag is a prime example."
"COS' Clean Cut t-shirt is already a Who What Wear UK favorite thanks to its impeccable fit and thick fabric, and it now comes in an even better navy stripe, raising the total options to an impressive 20. I'm tempted to get one in every style..."
Rohe
Silk Relaxed Trousers
"If you missed it, wide-leg silk trousers are very much in vogue now, and if you didn’t purchase a pair during the heatwave, now is a perfect time to invest in Rôhe's relaxed midnight blue trousers. They embody effortless elegance in a streamlined design."
Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor
Shop Remy's Picks:
Toteme
Cotton Twill Jacket Cashew
"In that awkward transition between trench coats and cardigans, you'll be grateful for a jacket like this in your wardrobe. Light and easy to layer over anything in a pinch, Toteme has truly excelled with this minimalist piece, epitomizing simplicity perfected."
"I'm not ready to part with bold reds, and once my red mesh ballet flats are too light for the season, I’ll switch to this Loewe sweater, wearing it over white tees, tied around my shoulders, or casually around my waist."
Victoria Beckham
Dorian East-West Clutch Suede
"A sleek, cocoa suede clutch from Victoria Beckham—need I say more? This bag makes me want to set aside my white cotton dresses and opt for a refined grey suit teamed with business-appropriate heels."
"If there's one style of shoe you can wear throughout the year, it's a leather ballet flat. While Jimmy Choo may not have reinvented the wheel with their Margot flats, they’ve certainly perfected it—the almond toe and semi-patent finish are so finely
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It's summer outdoors, but autumn is on my wish list—here are the pre-fall items our editors are saving for later…
While we won't rush the end of summer, the appeal of autumn is hard to ignore. We've put together a pre-fall shopping list that will make you eager to put away your shorts and sandals.
