Master modern midlife dressing with a Scandi-feel mix of outfits that are both pretty and practical. From billowy leopard-print dresses teamed with chunky boots to utility jackets worn with frilly blouses, these easy, everyday looks are ageless and utterly of the moment
SMASH-HIT KNIT
Looking for a new wardrobe icon? A knitted tank top is the perfect grown-up style solution for keeping toasty without adding bulk or overheating. This cute Albaray sleeveless version has the smartness of a waistcoat but the cosiness of a cardie. Slip over a shirt or dress and watch how old favourites instantly look updated.
Coat, £129, 10-28, Damart. Knit, £65, 8-18, Albaray. Shirt, £90, s-xxl, Kate Barton. Trousers, £195, 6-16, Me+Em. Boots, £189, 3-9, Hobbs
ONE AND DONE
A utilitarian take on the jumpsuit, the hardworking, hardwearing boilersuit is just the thing you need to get you out of your jeans-and-sweater rut. Add some femininity to this androgynous one-piece by adding a contrasting frill or bow beneath. Functional, versatile and very cool, the boilersuit’s thicker fabric is surprisingly flattering, which is why fashion insiders are labelling it the ‘new power suit’.
Jumpsuit, £180, 4-18, LF Markey. Blouse, £45, 8-20, John Lewis & Partners. Mules, £149, 3-8, Whistles
TICKLED PINK
Your new-season style strategy? Think pink – it’s the unexpected hero hue for autumn/winter. If top-to-toe fizzy fuchsia is too daring, a simple, chic piece in shocking pink has the power to take your neutral style staples to a rather fabulous new level.
Shacket, £28, 8-20, Matalan. Jumper, £89, 8-20, John Lewis & Partners. Trousers, £59.65, 6-18, United Colors of Benetton. Shoes, £75, 3-8, Dune London
DYNAMIC DENIM
Whether you’re 18 or 80, the denim jacket is a cornerstone of any contemporary closet. Looking to update yours? The new jean jacket has gone feminine for autumn: ruffle collars, puff sleeves and cute quilting options will add fresh drama. For the most timeless styles, avoid anything too distressed or embellished and stick to elegant darker shades of blue.
Jacket, £149, 8-18, Baukjen. Blouse, £80, xs-l, Jovonna London. Water-resistant organic cotton skirt, £315, xs-l, Bamford. Hat, £18, La Redoute. Boots, £189, 3-9, Hobbs
LOVABLE LAYERS
When your outfit needs a little lift, add another layer – it will instantly make you look more modern. Lightweight base layers such as cotton shirts, thin rollnecks and the humble T-shirt are the perfect tools to help you master this fashion editor styling trick. Avoid looking bulky by keeping jackets open to reveal the multi-layers beneath – the vertical line is flattering for all figures.
Coat, £170, 6-18, Thought. Blazer, £48; shirt, £42, both 6-24, Next. Tro
