Autumn Style Tips for Men

As any fashion conscious man will know planning ahead is a must if you want to stay on top of style trends and keep your wardrobe in the shape it deserves to be. One of the biggest fashion transitions throughout the year is most definitely when it comes to bringing slightly warmer clothing back into the fold and adding more layers to outfits after months of dressing for warmer weather. As huge fans of summer ourselves this article isn't meant to depress anyone by reminding them that shorter, darker days are coming, instead we want to celebrate the change of season, because as we all know autumn/winter clothing still has that slight edge when it comes to putting stylish looks together.

This quick guide to autumn style tips for men will take a look at a mix of timeless looks perfect for slightly colder days as well as new trends for the up coming season straight from the latest menswear shows at both London and New York. Dedicated weeks such as LCM and NYFW:Men's show the growing importance of men’s clothing in the world of fashion and there are a number of looks you can adopt straight away to make sure your autumn wardrobe is stocked and ready to make sure you look your best.

Getting Your Layers Right

Layering goes without saying as the nights draw in and the days becoming that little bit colder but as this article is looking at autumn style tips it’s important for men to remember not to go too far with the layers just yet. As we know all too well in the UK the weather can change at the drop of a hat so it’s best to be prepared  for all conditions and the best way to do this is to introduce layers slowly and start light. A shirt and sweatshirt underneath a bomber jacket or lightweight jacket is a good place to start and will allow you to mix up your outfit combinations without adding too many pieces to your autumn/winter wardrobe straight away.

Play with Different Looks

As with any change of season, heading into autumn and the different style trends it brings with it means now is the perfect time to mix up your wardrobe and experiment with slightly different looks you have been thinking about for a while. If you’re like most you have a personal style you don’t like to stray too far from but a change of weather brings with it an opportunity to add  statement pieces that can extend  your style while keeping you looks consistent. By this we don’t necessarily mean adding big winter jackets instead one trend we identified you could look to explore in your own way is how many designers are combining textures and cuts within ordinary pieces to create really interesting contrasts. This has been used a lot by high street stores with leather added to T-shirts and jumpers but you can now find more designers creating new looks for shirts that would go well layered with outerwear this autumn.

Boot Up

Our next men's style tip for autumn is a classic example that the changing seasons can do wonders for your appearance. There is just something special about a good fitting pair of boots on a stylish man, whether your choice is the Chelsea boot or something slightly more robust it definitely makes packing away the sandals and summer trainers that little bit easier when you know your look can be upgraded with a stylish and comfortable piece of footwear that not only looks good but keeps your feet warm and dry at the same time. You will have no shortage of boots to choose from to add your autumn wardrobe with stores preparing well in advance for the change in weather making it that bit easier for you not be caught out either. Leather is definitely the way to go here and you really can’t go too far wrong with a pair of brown Chelsea boots that can combine well with jeans or trousers depending on the occasion.

Invest in a Quality Umbrella

Ok, so we said that we would keep this autumn style advice guide positive but as we all know too well we can’t count on the British weather at the best of times especially as we head towards the end of summer so it’s best to be prepared to ensure you’re not caught out and your outfit isn't ruined. To make sure you’re not beaten by the rain a stylish umbrella is a must have for autumn, and although you may think you can make do by borrowing from a friend or using your Dad’s golf umbrella that’s just not the case. Having a smart, simple umbrella is a purchase you only have to make once in a while if you go for the right quality and it also gives off the impression that you care about your appearance enough to prepare for the worst, which is not a bad way to be seen. 

The Must Have Autumn/Winter 15 Fabric: Suede

September is slowly approaching and with that brings, falling leaves, declining temperatures but most importantly changes to your wardrobe! We all love re-vamping our wardrobes every season, it’s always fun to re-discover what we haven’t worn in the past 6 months so it’s time to start preparing for next season and we suggest focusing on the hottest fabric for autumn/winter 15 – Suede!

First you need to establish if you’re going to invest in real suede or faux suede? Faux suede is made entirely of synthetic polyester, it’s a lot less expensive and is generally a lot easier to clean and maintain. Real suede is genuine leather made from the undersides of animal skins, it’s not water resistant & is incredibly difficult to maintain. Furthermore natural suede tends to age quicker with cracks and discolouration being prominent issues.

Suede A-line Skirts

No matter where you look, you cannot miss the A-line skirt trend. This is no doubt one of the biggest trends for autumn/winter 15. Every high street shop has released their own versions as well as designer brands creating their own interpretations of this trend. One of the most highly sought after collections this season is Alexa Chung for AG jeans with a variety of A-line skirts designed by the young trend setter including denim and suede skirts. Grab yourself a skirt from the Alexa Chung collection here or an affordable high-street version here.

Alexa Chung for AG Jeans A/W 15 Campaign

Suede Dresses

The 70’s trend is back in full force with the return of the all suede dress. Personally we suggest opting for a faux suede option if you want to try out this trend. The hassle of keeping any dress clean is difficult let alone a suede dress so it will save you a weekly trip to your local dry-cleaners. We’re loving the camel coloured versions of these dresses, add a skinny belt and a pair of ankle booties and you’re good to go.

Variety of suede dresses available on ASOS

Suede Boots

Boots are a no brainer during the autumn/winter season, whether it’s ankle boots, knee-high boots or combat boots, they’re an essential pair of footwear in every woman’s wardrobe. However it’s the suede boot that has taken the spotlight this season. Once again suede boots can be found at any high-street store or at your favourite designer boutique. Some of our favourites for the season are the Isabel Marant Dicker boots, the Saint Laurent Paris boots or this Topshop version. 

Selection of suede Isabel Marant Dicker boots to welcome the Autumn

Menswear Style Series: Backpacks

The popularity of men’s backpacks has continued to grow at an astonishing rate over the last 18 months or so and the trend shows no sign of slowing up. What most people have found surprising is not only the resurgence of  backpacks but how they have flourished within menswear style circles and not only as a high street trend. Backpacks have remained a strong presence on men’s runways throughout this year with a number of designers including them as a firm fashion accessory pointed to on going success for the understated style piece. 

As with any accessory differing looks are important when it comes to finding the perfect match weather you are on your commute or on your holidays so finding the right backpack is hugely important to help you top off particular outfits so we've pulled together some of our favourite looking bags and arranged them by certain social situations making sure you can look smart lugging your belongings around wherever you’re off to.

The Office Carrier

Travelling around London at rush hour and you will encounter an abundance of well-dressed young professionals heading to and from the office kitted out and including with them a backpack.  It is almost a prerequisite of the modern professional, brief cases are long gone and holdalls giving off the wrong vibe, a backpack is the perfect companion to chuck your laptop, notepad and latest read in and quickly hop on the tube whether heading home or heading across town to the next meeting. Sturdy yet minimalist is the name of the game here, sometimes half full with only laptop on hand but at others easily packed to the brim this backpack needs to ready for anything whilst remaining stylish on your commute.

The Airport Flyer

Although the holdall might be the go to bag of choice for those heading off for a short trip away the backpack can be an excellent alternative if you want to embrace your inner minimalist and really travel light. Holding enough space for a few changes in clothing a backpack could make the ultimate travel companion especially coming complete with enough inner storage to avoid you having any last minute passport panics. If you do decide to travel with a backpack instead of any large luggage you have a huge amount of choice to ensure you can choose the right backpack to take along for the ride, although you still want the space and convenience of back storage you don’t want anything too big while the style should also be something slightly more rounded and less formal than the bag you use to and from the office during the week.

The Weekend Walkabout

Now to the show piece, having completed your working week and the weekend has finally arrived you still need somewhere to keep your belongings (face it who wants crowded pockets). Plus with the plans you've made whether if it is off round a friends for a drink and catch up or lunching in the park taking a backpack with you gives off that all important air that your someone with places to be and people to see which of course you are! For your time off you need something that lets people know exactly that, that you’re out of the office with a sense of adventure while remaining stylishly cool at the same time and for that we've got your back...

Get Laced Up this Season

The lace-up trend has taken the world of fashion by storm this year. From clothes to accessories, no matter where you go, you’re bound to see someone embracing the trend in one way or another. It all started back in 2014 when designers were showcasing lace-up details on their runway shows for Spring/Summer 2015. Lacing appeared everywhere, in the form of shoes, dresses, corsets to jackets. We don’t want you to miss out on the season’s hottest trend right now so we have the full low down on what to look out for and where to grab yourself a bargain!

Lace up Flats

Aquazzura Bel Air Flats

Aquazzura were one of the first brands to monopolise the lace-up trend. Their incredibly popular ‘bel air’ and ‘belgravia’ lace-up shoes flew off the shelves and became the most sought after shoes of 2015. They even became a hit on social media with Instagram accounts embracing the lace-up trend left, right and centre. They may even be the most photographed shoe of the season, who knows? Of course this means the high-street shops quickly followed suit and created a variety of affordable alternatives of the infamous Aquazzura model.  

Find high-street alternatives at Topshop, Aldo and Zara.

Lace up Heels

Style icon Olivia Palermo embraces the lace-up trend in Aquazzura

Just like the lace-up flats, Aquazzura also dominated the trend with their heels. They uniquely made two versions of the ‘bel-air’ and ‘belgravia’ styles, a flat version and a heeled version too. These luxurious heels soon became a hit amongst A-list celebrities such as Olivia Palarmo and Kendall Jenner, turning them into the must have trend of 2015.

Find high-street alternatives at Public Desire and Zara.

Givenchy lace up bodysuit A/W 2015

Lace up Tops

Sexy lace front tops have been a big hit this season with designers such as Givenchy, Gucci and Louis Vuitton embracing the trend on their runway shows. Deep plunging V-neck tops with a front lace-up closure leaves little to the imagination and is perfect for a night out on the town with your girlfriends or even on a cheeky date. Remember ladies, bust size may have to be taken into consideration with this trend so if you’re unsure how it’s going to fit, we suggest opting for a high-street alternative. 

Find high-street alternatives at River Island and ASOS.

Emilio Pucci lace up suede dress

Lace up Dresses

The causal day time dress is back with a bang! It’s been revamped by adding subtle hints of lace-up tailoring. Similar to the lace-up top with its front lace closure but sticking to minimal designs with neutral colours and various textures. The lace-up dress is the perfect way to stay cool and stylish this summer and there are loads of affordable options available on the high-street. 

Find high-street alternatives at Topshop and ASOS.