Five autumn fashion trends I’m bringing into my work wardrobe this season

5 autumn fashion trends I’m bringing into my work wardrobe this seasonplaceholder image
5 autumn fashion trends I’m bringing into my work wardrobe this season | River Island/New Look

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You don’t need a whole new wardrobe to embrace autumn fashion, just a few clever updates to your everyday workwear.

Forget the days of restrictive office attire workwear is evolving to reflect modern life and individual style. According to fashion stylist Oriona Robb, the key to updating your work wardrobe is balancing current trends with professionalism. As she notes, office looks trending on social media aren’t always suited for real-life meetings, so careful adaptation is essential.

Capris: Modern cropped trousers

Capris remain a staple beyond summer, but workplace-appropriate versions require tailored cuts and structured fabrics. Robb recommends avoiding prints and denim for the office. She suggests pairing tailored capris with kitten heels or classic loafers, complemented by a cashmere sweater and a smart jacket for a sophisticated finish.

River Island Black Regular Stretch Capri Trousersplaceholder image
River Island Black Regular Stretch Capri Trousers | River Island

Bandanas and handkerchiefs: Subtle style statements

Accessories like silk scarves and bandanas offer an easy update without a full wardrobe change. Robb advises wearing them tied at the neck, tucked into a shirt collar, or wrapped around a handbag handle. For creative environments, headbands are suitable, while in more formal offices, a patterned scarf can inject colour into traditional combinations.

M&S Satin Printed Scarfplaceholder image
M&S Satin Printed Scarf | M&S

Chartreuse and pea green: Controlled colour pops

Bold green shades such as chartreuse and pea green are trending, though they can seem daunting. Robb advises combining these hues with earthy tones like chocolate brown to create a sophisticated look. Neutral shades such as navy, cream, charcoal, and burgundy also complement green. Rather than dressing head-to-toe in bright colours, she suggests starting with a blouse, scarf, or bag in one of these tones.

New Look Bright Green Midweight Crew Neck Jumperplaceholder image
New Look Bright Green Midweight Crew Neck Jumper | New Look

Fringe: Subtle texture for the workplace

Fringe is in this autumn, but subtlety is crucial for the office. Robb recommends a fringed hem on a skirt, a shirt with minimal movement, or a fringed leather bag to nod to the trend without overpowering your outfit. She emphasizes that professional dressing doesn’t have to be boring, but advises limiting fringe to one piece mixed with tailored items.

Accessorize Suede Fringed Shoulder Bagplaceholder image
Accessorize Suede Fringed Shoulder Bag | M&S

Satin and Silk: Daytime elegance

Typically associated with evening wear, satin skirts and silk blouses can suit the office if styled thoughtfully. Robb suggests pairing neutral-coloured silk blouses with tailored trousers, and satin midi skirts with crisp shirts and tights. She cautions against bold colours, recommending more subdued tones for work.

New Look Navy Satin Lace Trim Bias Cut Midi Dressplaceholder image
New Look Navy Satin Lace Trim Bias Cut Midi Dress | New Look

Robb observes that workwear now allows more individuality, which she considers a positive development. However, she cautions that professional environments still require discernment: “The question I always encourage clients to ask is not simply, ‘Can I wear this to work?’ but, ‘What is this communicating about me?’”

Her advice encourages employees to embrace new trends while ensuring their attire remains appropriate for professional settings. The modern office wardrobe, she suggests, can reflect both personality and professionalism with a few strategic choices.

Natalie Dixon is our Lifestyle reporter, if you liked this article and want to read more about fashion, beauty and lifestyle you can follow Natalie Dixon on X here

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