The Top Ten Autumn Pieces

Every August, an assault of outfits, accessories and new trends are launched from the catwalks to the womens' fashion magazines and style pages. However, it seems to me that within the mess that can ensue, there are often a few key pieces that can update your entire wardrobe, and that become season staples. For me, the following ten pieces are the ones I'll be investing in.

1. The evening jacket

This silk, ivory evening piece is from the Topshop Boutique collection. I'll wear it over dark jeans and heels, or a 40s dress, as per the next item on the list.

2. The 40s dress

I had to mention this Miu Miu dress again, it really is the most beautiful thing I've seen on the runway this year.

3. The fur stole



Of course I had to show a pink one, courtesy of Sonia Rykiel. However, I think that these will be everywhere this year, in every possible colour. Wear over any coat or jacket.

4. The tiny clutch

Bags this season are divided between the large, bowling or tote style bags, and the smaller and unusual clutches like this one by Prada, which I find particularly stylish and almost endearing.

5. The crazy stiletto

Trust Balenciaga to come up with a shoe like this. At first, I wasn't sure. Now I am in love and need to find a something similar to wear with Everything this Autumn. But take it from me, the stiletto is back, and chunky block heels are a thing of the past.

6. The midi-skirt

This is Turquoise Pink, so out of all the mid-length skirts seen on the catwalk, I had to choose this bright turquoise and tangerine one from Jonathan Saunders. Wear with a simple and slim fitting alpine jumper as next in the list.

7. The alpine sweater

The clean-lined, minamilistic jumper will be one of the most useful buys this Autumn. I like the cool and fresh colour-pairing of this one by Chloe.

8. The face-framing sunglasses.

You may think I'm mad putting sunglasses on this list, but have you ever noticed how when the sun is lower in the sky in winter, it is actually more annoying than in the summer? Choose rounded square shapes like those above by Miu Miu, with thick frames in tortoishell or black.

9. The shaggy coat

Antonio Berardi is new on my fashion radar, but I love this coat and much of his Autumn/Winter collection this year. A textured warm coat like this will see you through all the coldest months through to Spring, and will go over anything from cocktail dresses to your favourite jeans and boots.

10. The lace dress

I am often reluctant about fashion items that I just know are going to be overdone. But this list is about pieces that will be of the upmost importance this Autumn, and the black lace dress like the Lanvin one above will be the answer for last-minute parties and evening events. Expect to see variations of these in every single high-street shop this September.

What will be on your shopping list in a few weeks time? Please comment!