R29 Style Picks: Everything We Want To Buy In October
No matter how many seasonal transitions we live through, they always come as a shock. Like being surprised by your monthly period every time it appears, the arrival of autumn always throws us for a loop. Whether it’s the first time you realise the drying rack has to come indoors or when you first get caught in a cold downpour, the realisation that tides are a changin’ can feel overwhelming.
Thankfully, the one salve to saying goodbye to the sun is the fact that autumn fashion is nauseatingly good. Beyond the overload of pumpkin-spiced everything, the crisp weather offers us the chance to indulge in seasonal classics, including chunky knits, shiny loafers and the type of tailored trench coats that would put Inspector Gadget to shame.
Still, there are plenty of new trends to keep us on our toes too, with the return of the hotly-debated ballet flat, the emergence of Phoebe Buffet-inspired pendants and the introduction of neck ties into everyday looks. So, whether you’re wanting to keep things cosy or mix things up this October , we’ve got something to suit everyone.
To take a peak at everything that Team R29 have on their agenda this Autumn, click through the slideshow ahead…
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Ebony-Renee Baker, Fashion Editor Whenever cosy season comes around, I crave a cute, adult-looking set of PJs that I can curl up on the couch in (and watch scary movies all night long). These sleep pants from Superdry are perfect parts luxurious and cosy – and are definitely not boring.
Superdry Satin Sleepwear Pant, $, available at Superdry
This is my first autumn with a shaved head and I’ve very quickly noticed how cold my scalp gets once temps start to dip. I never got into the balaclava trend last year when I had my curly hair, so you can expect to see me in ALL the headwear this autumn and winter. First up, this gorgeous handmade design from Damson Madder.
Damson Madder Crochet Balaclava, $, available at Damson Madder
I mean, c’mon. How incredible is this coat?! If having too many coats and jackets is a crime, you can come and find me cos this one needs to be mine.
Maybelle Morgan, Entertainment EditorI’ve been swanning around in denim skirts all summer long and I shouldn’t have to stop just because it’s gotten colder. This ankle-skimming number with a cargo pocket has a little bit of grunge about it, and is begging for a fisherman knit and a little boot combo.
Brandy Melville Kenzie 90’s Denim Skirt, $, available at Brandy Melville
I’m loving a little slogan tee at the moment and if there’s a brand that knows how to do them – of course – it’s Aries. This muscle vest, in the butteriest of yellows, has shot straight to the top of my most-wanted list.
Aries J’adoro Aries Shrunken Vest, $, available at Aries
October chill means one thing: I’m on the hunt for new boots to stomp around all autumn. I already have my eye on these knee highs, to be worn with the miniest of wool skirts, a grey tee and a big ol’ blazer. New seasonal uniform – completed.
Alicia Lansom, Associate EditorThe TikTok girlies are loosing it over these Uniqlo trousers and it’s easy to see why. Clean lines, chic colourways and roomy wide legs, j’adore!
Uniqlo Pleated Wide Leg Trousers, $, available at Uniqlo
Some people believe that dressing for the cold weather can be a less exciting task. However, this electric cobalt blue hoodie is here to prove those people oh so wrong.
Damson Madder Wave Oversized Organic Cotton Hoodie, $, available at Damson Madder
For the office, I’ll be going smart this season and that calls for some bright, shiny loafers. Just look at how structured the stitching is, the solid sole, all of it just *works*.
G.H. Bass & Co. Albany II Women’s Saddle Loafer, $, available at G H Bass
Kristine Romano, Associate Photo & Design EditorI’m not the biggest fan of wearing tights so I’m clinging onto my midi skirts before it gets too cold to wear them without an extra layer underneath. I love this chocolate brown iteration with the contrast stitching. Paired with a T-shirt, lightweight jacket and some boots, and you’ve got yourself the perfect autumn outfit.
Monki Brown utility midi skirt, $, available at Monki
This COS crossbody is exactly what I’ve been looking for – it has more than enough space for all of my belongings and will comfortably stay put.
COS Nylon Crossbody Sling Bag, $, available at COS
Rarely am I drawn to a pair of shoes that aren’t black or white, but these burgundy Mary Janes from Camper are simply perfect. The Mary Jane silhouette is timeless all year round and there’s something especially satisfying about every detail of the shoe (even down to the buckle!) being the same colour.
Esther Newman, Affiliate WriterI loved wearing lace tights when I was 15. I would layer them over block colour tights, paired with a twee-appropriate tea dress and brogues. Is it any wonder then, that aged 27, I still love lace tights? Although in 2022, I’ll be wearing them with a boxy blazer, graphic tee, mini skirt and chunky boots for a romantic-with-an-edge date night look.
Urban Outfitters Out From Under Gothic Floral Tights, $, available at Urban Outfitters
I’m always on the lookout for new sustainable brands, especially when it comes to updating my wardrobe essentials. When I’m working from home I practically live in an oversized tee-and-bike-shorts combination (you can’t beat the comfort). This pair from Aussie brand dk active are made with 100% recycled materials (78% regenerated nylon and 22% recycled elastane) and, although pricey, make for a great investment.
DK Active Match Point Bike Pant, $, available at DK Active
I’m loving the current chunky, ’90s style pendant necklace revival right now. And although I already I have a puffy silver heart from Etsy, a glass flower from Brooke Callahan and a tropical bloom from Hola Amor Estudios in my collection, I can’t stop myself from lusting over this latest offering from Daisy London. So much so that I’m adding it to my ‘self treat, birthday wish list’ now!
Daisy London Beloved rose quartz heart pendant, $, available at Daisy London
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living EditorFor the coming months ahead, I got a corduroy midi dress for layering over shirts and under cardigans. There’s something about dressing like early Phoebe Buffay/late ’80s librarian/Miss Honey from Matilda that makes me feel safe right now. (Let’s not look into it too much).
BEYOND RETRO Dark Green Fabric Dress, $, available at Beyond Retro
Autumn is truly my favourite season to live in and to dress in. The moment I felt the weather turning I found myself on Vinted where I ended up getting – among other things – an orange suede effect maxi skirt. This is not the one but it’s close. I like pairing it with fitted navy jumpers or bold wool waistcoats.
TenderloinVintage 1980s Chocolate suede leather long a-line skirt, $, available at Etsy
Vagabond has me in their grip and they won’t let me go! My favourite everyday shoes (loafers) are from Vagabond and I’d love a brown pair to go with the black ones that I already own. Variety, but only a little bit, right?
