WHAT TO WEAR IN AUTUMN: CASUAL & SMART OUTFIT INSPIRATION FOR MEN

Because these shades sit on the same side of the colour wheel, they work together effortlessly. Even if an outfit mixes several of them, they’ll rarely clash in the way that brighter, colder tones can.

 

Even better, they tend to suit more skin tones than the pastel shades associated with spring and summer, so a put-together look is almost always guaranteed.

 

FABRICS FOR AUTUMN OUTFITS

 

As autumn arrives, it’s time to put away the linen and pull out the wool, corduroy, flannel, brushed cotton, fleece, denim, leather and suede.

 

These are the materials that define autumn dressing, and they’re chosen for more than just their looks. They also offer good insulation, hold their shape well, and layer without adding excessive bulk.

 

Cord in particular does a lot of work in autumn styling, since its texture reads as seasonal even in lighter colours.

 

LAYERING IN AUTUMN OUTFITS

 

Layering is essential in autumn, not only to create a put-together look, but also to deal with unpredictable weather. Being able to add or remove clothing means you can easily wrap up against the morning chill without being too warm when the sun finally shows its face.

 

A typical autumn layering setup starts with a base layer tee, then builds up with a mid-layer like a knit, and finishes with an outer layer such as a blazer, coat or jacket, depending on how much extra warmth or structure you need.

 

Remember to wear the thinnest layers first to avoid a bulky look and have fun playing with textures - try wearing a cable knit under a denim jacket, for example.

 

TRANSITIONAL STYLE ESSENTIALS

 

In the height of summer, we tend to reach for airy pieces to keep us cool. But as the weather turns and the transitional season rears its head, those lighter styles get swapped for more enclosed, protective pieces.

 

Outerwear becomes heavier and more considered - think trench coats, wool-blend coats and puffer jackets, rather than light summer jackets. Shoes also move from trainers and sandals to Chelsea boots and loafers instead.

 

These more covered-up styles are perfect for keeping you warm and keeping out the elements, which is essential for taking on autumn showers, frosty mornings and chilly evenings.

THE RULE OF THREE

 

Most autumn outfits break down into three layers: a breathable base like a cotton t-shirt, an insulating mid-layer such as a jumper or cardigan, and a weather-resistant outer layer like a denim or worker jacket.

 

Sticking to this structure, even loosely, stops an outfit from either underdoing it on a cold day or overdoing it on a milder one. Since you can take each layer off individually, you’ll always find the optimum temperature, no matter how much the weather shifts.

 

PLAY WITH TEXTURES

 

Layering with fabrics that look and feel similar tends to flatten an outfit, even if the colours are right.

 

Instead, mix wool, cotton, corduroy and denim to add depth without needing more colour. It's usually the texture contrast rather than anything else that makes a layered outfit look considered rather than accidental.

 

INVEST IN AN OVERSHIRT

 

An overshirt bridges the gap between a shirt and a jacket. Thicker than a typical shirt, but lighter and less structured than most jackets, it’s essential when the weather rarely settles on one temperature for long.

 

Worn open over a graphic tee, it works as a casual mid-layer on a mild day, and buttoned up under a heavier coat, it adds an extra layer of warmth once the cold really comes in.

 

LENGTHS & PROPORTIONS

 

Getting the length of each piece right is what makes a layered outfit look intentional instead of swallowed up.

 

As a general rule, your outerwear should sit slightly longer than the layer underneath it. If you're wearing a cropped jacket, let a longer shirt or overshirt peek out slightly at the hem so it looks intentional rather than a poor fit.

 

LAYERING ACCESSORIES

 

Layering isn't just limited to shirts and jackets. A wool scarf, beanie or a pair of heavy-duty leather boots all add extra texture and personality to an outfit. Plus, they tend to be the details people notice even when the main outfit is fairly simple.