Alongside many other things, going back to start a new year of uni means that, after a long (and surprisingly warm) summer, a new style season is creeping up on us and illuminating the need for me to change my wardrobe up yet again.
Now, if you are a student like me, you’re probably wondering how on earth you are going to be able to keep up with all the new trends for A/W this year when you can barely afford to print in the library… BUT do not fear! I have been scouring the internet to find 8 staple items which you should be able to mix and match throughout the season to keep your look fresh, versatile, but most importantly, affordable!
- Printed velvet dress- Zara- £49.99
http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/new-in/printed-velvet-dress-c840002p3932022.html
Although the price tag on this dress is not within everyone’s range, it cannot be denied that this new addition to Zara’s A/W collection is a beautifully versatile choice for any wardrobe. I also love the fact that the velvet will add an extra layer of warmth; perfect for the cold weather we are inevitably in for!
Try dressing it down with a leather jacket, thick black tights and ankle boots or add a touch of evening glamour by pairing it with some simple jewellery, heels and your favourite clutch bag.
2. Black leather-look mini skirt- New Look- £17.99
http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/skirts/black-leather-look-seam-trim-mini-skirt-_376181001
In the past I have been quite sceptical of leather skirts; never quite being able to find one with the perfect cut. This piece from New Look appears to have found the ideal balance between grunge and sophistication, meaning it will be easy to adapt into a number of autumn looks.
Tucking in a patterned blouse and wearing with a long coat and flats creates a smart daytime look or for something more edgy, wear with an off-the-shoulder top, chunky-heeled ankle boots and plenty of statement jewellery.
3. Lapel shift coat- Mango- £49.99
I am a firm believer that a good coat can transform any outfit into something much classier and this simple yet stunning piece from Mango does just that. The flattering design means that the wearer will be kept warm, as well as on trend in the seasonal khaki colour which gives it a military feel. I’d love to get my hands on this for the A/W season!
Party season is coming up, so keep warm after a night out and put a classic twist on your outfit by wearing with your favourite LBD and heels. If you prefer something more casual, add to the military style by wearing with ripped skinny jeans and a pair of lace up boots.
4. Dark red lace-up chunky ankle boots- New Look- £29.99
http://www.newlook.com/shop/shoe-gallery/boots/dark-red-lace-up-chunky-ankle-boots_380344760
I must admit, these beauties were on my wishlist for all of 5 minutes before I had to give in and buy them! I love the burgundy colour of these boots which offers something new in comparison to the usual black that I would go for. I also find that the gold detailing adds a little glam to an otherwise grungy look.
Since owning these boots I have paired them with skinny jeans and a jumper but also managed to incorporate them into a more feminine outfit by wearing them with a dress and black tights. They’re honestly so versatile that the possibilities are endless!
5. Denim jacket with faux shearling trim- ASOS/Daisy Street- £39.99
I’ve seen a lot of these denim/borg jackets coming into the shops recently and I must say it’s a trend which I never expected to be so keen on. I love how cosy the furry lining looks inside this jacket from Daisy Street and I can imagine it being the perfect casual coat for bonfire night and many other autumn evenings.
The washed-out effect of the denim is also super cool and means it can be paired with loads of other shades (especially good for those of you brave enough to experiment with double denim!) This would be great to throw on over a classic stripy tee and a beanie or layer up for extra warmth by wearing with a chunky-knit jumper.
6. Blonda panel blouse- Mango- £19.99
A white blouse is an essential staple in any wardrobe but what I love about this one from Mango is the high neck; making it perfect for the colder A/W weather but also giving it a timeless elegance which adds instant character to any outfit.
As the picture shows, the blouse looks great with a pair of blue jeans for a more casual look but I would be tempted to put it together with a tartan-checked skirt (or maybe even the leather skirt from above) and some heeled boots to try and channel a vintage grunge look.
7. Green velvet bomber jacket- New Look- £34.99
http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/jackets-and-coats/dark-green-velvet-bomber-jacket_383743738
Good news for anyone who thought that bomber jackets were over for the winter: the 90’s trend is very much here to stay! I particularly love this jacket from New Look which comes in a beautiful jade green colour and the velvet-style material means that it will be extra warm and cosy for the winter months.
Try this jacket with a backpack, a pair of skinny jeans and your favourite trainers in order to really work that 90’s sport luxe which doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon!
8. Lace top double strap skater dress- Missguided- £35
https://www.missguided.co.uk/new-in/lace-top-double-strap-skater-dress-black
So the winter season means that Christmas isn’t too far around the corner which means that party season is coming. In my opinion, a girl can’t go wrong with an LBD and Missguided have really pulled it out of the bag with this twist on the traditional style. I really love the lace style detailing of the bust, as well as the thin straps which give it a slightly gothic feel.
I personally find the skater style to be great for my body type, as I don’t like to accentuate my stomach and bum too much. The dress also isn’t low cut which is good for me, as I don’t have a lot going on in the cleavage department! This dress would definitely be a staple in my wardrobe for at least one party over the Christmas season.
So that’s my pick of the high street brands for A/W 2016 and hopefully it’s shown some of you how you don’t need to go overboard when shopping for a new season, as a few key items can be just as effective when styled with versatility and imagination. Till next time, loves! xx
Life by okgabi 
Love the Mango shift coat! It’s always a bonus when it’s affordable too!
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I know, it’s gorgeous! 😍
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