THE NEW RULES OF LAYERING

Autumn has arrived with its crunchy leaves and misty mornings, inviting us to rethink the way we dress. Layering is no longer just about puffer jackets and bundled scarves – this season, it's a playful exploration of textures, tones and silhouettes. It’s the joy of giving old jeans a fresh twist with a simple accessory or discovering the hidden potential of your jewellery box. Curious about how to reinvent your autumnal wardrobe? We’ve got you. Layering has become an art, and this season, the canvas is entirely yours.

If you’re looking to breathe some life into your old jeans, you’ve got to invest in this year’s hottest accessory: the scarf belt. This micro-trend came into our lives earlier this year, and it’s transcended the seasons – proof that it has major staying power. A printed satin square or tasselled scarf, knotted at the waist, is the simplest add-on, bringing any outfit the personality that a simple leather belt never could. Plus, it’s a great way to dip into patterns – like polka dot or cow print – without committing fully to the trends.

 

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN satin scarf in cream polka dot, £18
ASOS DESIGN lace scarf in black, £20
Similar: COLLUSION camo leaf print headscarf in multi, £9.99
Similar: Pull&Bear Fringed scarf in brown, £17.99

Feeling brave? One way to raise the style stakes is by creating a little interest on the upper half. Try layering a bright shirt on top of another or you could even underpin your favourite graphic tee with a long-sleeved lace number. If you want a shortcut, Lioness’s ready-made shirt-top hybrid creates a multi-layered illusion that does all the hard work for you. People might ask you if you’re wearing two tops – just let them wonder while you do your thing.

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN oversized deep cuff shirt in blue, £30
ASOS DESIGN oversized long sleeve t-shirt in pink & khaki stripe, £18
Similar: ASOS DESIGN slash neck lace top with bow detail in ivory, £24
Lioness 2 in 1 oversized t-shirt overlay and striped long sleeve shirt, £55

We’ve noticed a huge resurgence in chunky bangles – so it only feels right to put them on show wherever possible. From colourful resin pieces to wiggly gold-toned treasures, we’ll be piling them over shirt cuffs and jumper sleeves until the foreseeable. And the layering theory applies to necklaces and rings, too. Chances are, your jewellery box already contains the makings of an autumn-approved look, so what are you waiting for?

 

GET THE LOOK:

Similar: ASOS DESIGN pack of bangles in brown ombre resin and gold tone, £18
Reclaimed Vintage oversized buckle bangle in gold, £15.99
Stradivarius floral cord necklace in ecru, £12.99
ASOS DESIGN pack of 4 bangle bracelets in mixed design in gold tone, £14

Things that are on an upward trajectory this season? Asymmetric hemlines, of course. Yes, the highs and lows of autumn are presenting themselves in more sartorial ways: a satin slip draped over some sturdy jeans, a minimalist top with billowing trousers, and a lace hemline peeking out of a chunky-knit jumper. Each look delivers the perfect contrast of textures and silhouettes – slightly undone, but so obviously intentional.

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN lace hem satin cami top in cream, £30
Miss Selfridge satin mini dress in black, £34.99
Threadbare lace long sleeve top with asymmetric hem in fig, £20
ASOS DESIGN knitted fluffy wide sleeve jumper with lace hem in brown, £32

Speaking of scarves, how about putting one over your coat or jacket? Drape it over your coat, then tuck the ends neatly beneath the collar – a move borrowed from the street-style veterans of Copenhagen. Suddenly, your outerwear reads as styled, not simply worn. It’s the instant polish that turns a black overcoat into a statement. Think bold knits and rich textures – it’s the final touch everyone needs.

 

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN faux leather triangle scarf in dark plum, £24
ASOS DESIGN fluffy triangle scarf in bright blue, £16
Similar: My Accessories Cream and brown polka dot neck tie in brown, £10
ASOS DESIGN vintage inspired large headscarf in purple multi, £16