Here in Brisbane Autumn has begun with a heatwave, but fashionistas still hope there’ll be a chance to wear our favourite Autumn pieces in the coming weeks. If, like me, you are ready to pack away the sundresses and shorts here are some tips for the coming cooler months. I headed to the city to check out the new season fashion and travelled over the range to Castella Boutique in Mitchelton for their Autumn Styling Event hosted by stylist and journalist, Brooke Falvey. Here are just a few tips, tricks and trends we can look forward to this Autumn.
1. Trench Coats – A perennial favourite, this year sees trench coats becoming even more popular. Styles in camel, tan and beige are found in every label, whilst hues of blue, green and rust are filtering through. Try on a few and choose the style that is just right for you and the existing pieces in your wardrobe.
2. Leather and pleather – These have never really gone out of style for me but this year there are so many incarnations and in a range of hues. A leather or pleather maxi skirt will enliven your wardrobe. A leather blazer or jacket can be worn with jeans or skirts for an effortless cool girl vibe and those leather and pleather pants are coming in strong in straight or baggier styles. There is so much choice and this year you CAN wear your leather pieces together.
3. Maxi skirts- Hallelujah to this trend which sees the returns of longer more elegant skirts. Denim skirts are in every range as are pleather/ leather versions. Add a lovely top, a boot and trench and you are set to go anywhere.
4. Denim on denim- Yep, your Canadian tuxedo is back. Even denim on denim on denim is just fine. If you dare! There are some great pieces coming through. Castella Boutique showed us a very chic denim trench coat which was walking out the door. Trying pairing your denim look with new season loafers instead of boots so you look a little less country cowboy and a little more urban chic. Keep the proportions of your denim look to balance the silhouette. Look to Kanye West, Julia Fox and Gigi Hadid for inspiration.
5. Loafers – How I loved my loafers in the 80’s and 90’s! They are back in a big way with black, white, tan and metallics like silver and gold in the mix. Try on a few that may be right for you. I have some in berry from Frankie4 footwear and will be looking for more once I decide on a colour. Gold hardware looks great and you can try a flat or more platform style. The platforms look great with your wide legged pants. Which brings me to….
6. Wide legged pants – If you are more of a straight jean girl like me I encourage you to try some wide legged pants. The high waists and wide legs can create a lovely silhouette and breathe new life into your existing tops and blouses. I found Myer had a great selection and you can try them in white, pink or black, as well as a denim which will go with everything. With the advent of series, Daisy Jones and the Six, the 70’s vibe is very much alive. Try a crocheted top or embroidered top with wide legged jeans and an oversized jacket plus your platforms for a seemingly effortless rock chic vibe.
7. Bomber Jackets – I love a bomber jacket and have several already. They provide instant glamour and street cred to a tank or tee and jeans combo and are key for every season in 2023. This year you can find them in cropped or padded in stores like H&M. Army green and leather are perennial favourites which will serve you well for many years. Check out Anine Bing or Off White for some more designer options. I wear a sequin star navy bomber from White Label Noba which I love as much as my more inexpensive floral one from Zara. Gorman have some in fun patterns. Look to Hailey Bieber for inspiration and take flight in this must have cool girl outerwear.
Fashion should be fun and reflect your own personality, or at least the person you want to be on any given day. Check out your existing wardrobe and try some new combinations. You might surprise yourself with the versatility of the wardrobe you already have. The cooler weather allows a depth of layering we don’t often have here in Queensland so embrace the opportunity… if it ever gets here.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
Leave a Reply