admin Autumn is my favourite time of year. There are those who long for high summer and others who adore nestling down for winter, but for me, the transitional nature of autumn has a particular allure. Crisp leaves, clear skies and chilly breezes? I’m in my element. So far this autumn (though it’s still early days), we’ve been blessed with mild weather to ease us in one degree drop at a time, allowing us the time and space we—and our wardrobes—need to ready ourselves for the new season.
Even as an experienced fashion editor, the seasonal switch-up can be daunting, and I’m sure many of us have stood in front of our wardrobes willing an outfit to magically form. So, I like to formulate blueprints of reliable, ever-chic outfits that can be called up at a moment’s notice, whatever the day entails. As such, I asked one of our stylish editors and content creator Remi Afolabi to put together 5 expensive-looking outfits solely from New Look’s new-in section. Spoiler alert: she hit the brief.
One of the things that draws me to autumn fashion is the focus on fabrics. Of course, style is always at the forefront of my mind, but even if you’re not totally fashion-focused, the change in weather alone calls for a wardrobe update. After months of relying on light and breezy linen dresses, autumn celebrates the textiles overlooked last season; soft wools, tactile faux-leathers and silky satin styles once again take centre stage. The combination of different fabrics adds depth to an ensemble, giving an expensive feel to the look, no matter the price point.
For autumn 2023, New Look has honed in on this easy and affordable way to elevate your outfits for the new season. To ensure each item works as hard as possible, there’s a focus on timeless silhouettes that will earn their place in your wardrobe for years to come, for example this longline trench coat for only £60, which will be worn for years to come. The new-in section covers all occasions, whether you’re looking for sleek tailoring to bolster your workwear selection, some cosy yet put-together throw-on styles for running errands at the weekend or even an elegant evening piece for upcoming events (check out this gold slip skirt at only £30, which could easily be elevated with heels).
Over the years, New Look has been a store I’ve always turned to, especially when it comes to footwear. My first heels were a pair of New Look pumps, and since then I’ve relied on the brand for everything from cold-weather boots to summer sandals alike. Right now, the shoe selection is as strong as ever, ticking off all the capsule-wardrobe footwear us editors rely on. What makes them even more appealing, is that 95% of the shoes and bags are certified by the Vegan Society. In the collection you’ll find elegant pointed-toe boots to elevate any outfit, comfortable yet chic trainers for off-duty, on-the-go style; and cosy, faux-fur lined boots, to name just a few.
Below, Remi has taken New Look’s excellent autumnal clothing and standout shoes to create five expensive-looking combinations to rely on from now until springtime. Keep scrolling to explore New Look’s latest collection, and her fail-safe outfit ideas.
Style Notes: The best additions to your wardrobe are the truly versatile ones, and this edit includes a lot of them, so look to hard-working styles that can be reworn through the seasons. Take the slip skirt; it served us through summer with a simple tank top and flat sandals, and for autumn, you can layer it up with a classic black blazer—another wardrobe essential. To tie in with the elevated feel of the soft, fluid skirt paired with smart tailoring, Remi has added a pair of eternally chic pointed-toe boots.
Style Notes: Ask any fashion person and they’ll tell you a classic suit is a modern staple. From the office to coffee dates, this sleek two-piece will step up to all occasions with the right styling. Here, Remi has taken a relaxed approach, with a quiet-luxury beige-hued suit, staple white tee and comfortable sneakers for on the go. This season, New Look has excelled in offering high-end-looking tailoring, with both relaxed and more structured blazers on offer alongside tailored trousers in trending wide-leg silhouettes. To add a contemporary feel, finish the look with fresh white trainers and a designer-looking bag.
Style Notes: Is there anything more symbolic of autumn than the trench coat? The lightweight layer is ideal for the transitional months leading up to winter, either as an added layer to protect from the elements or to give your off-duty ensembles a put-together finish. When running errands, working from home or nipping out for a coffee, comfort is at the forefront of my mind, and here’s where an easy tracksuit set comes into its own. Faux-fur lined boots are the ultimate finishing touch for maximum cosiness, and New Look’s chunky iteration has caught my eye this season.
Style Notes: When I’m truly stuck for what to wear, I look to trusty styles than never fail. And Remi’s jeans-and-coat formula is one I intend to follow. First up, this dark grey longline coat—which could easily pass for being worth triple the price—will see you through autumn, winter and spring, too. Like most of us, jeans are the backbone of my wardrobe, and for the new season, I’m loving the contrast of blue denim with smooth-textured black boots. The look creates an effortlessly stylish feel, and you’ll rely on these timeless, hard-working pieces for years.
Style Notes: If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate a look, a full colour-block look is the way to go. Not only is it effortless to put together, but there’s an added refinement to a monochromatic ensemble, and no shade is quite as chic as black. Better still, this look is composed of four expensive-looking pieces that look so luxe when combined. The base of the outfit is a knitted dress, and with the knee-high boots, you have a classic autumn pairing. To add an extra layer of elevation, throw on a leather-look blazer and grab a bag.
Explore New Look’s full autumn collection here.
