The period between early autumn and the full-on freeze of winter is one of the year’s most glorious – but it’s also one of the trickiest times to dress for. The weather can turn in an instant, switching from sunny and mild to blisteringly cold without warning. Even for an experienced fashion editor and stylist, it’s a struggle to keep up.
Over the years, I’ve developed some go-to dressing hacks to get me through the tricky transitional season. Layers are key, as is having a killer selection of outerwear on standby for when there’s a chill in the air. But practicality needn’t come at the cost of looking stylish – it’s just about finding the right pieces.
Here’s my ultimate guide to selecting and styling your outerwear this year, so you can brave the elements looking cool and staying warm.
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Go big or go home
Oversized puffers are set to be everywhere this season, so I’m seeking styles in bold colours that scream, ‘Look at me!’ – and this orange Superdry Longline Puffer does exactly that. It’s perfect for throwing on over a casual look for a winter’s walk, or even a slinky black slip dress at night. Even better, the coat’s padding is made from recycled materials, so it’s a more sustainable choice too.
I’m loving the contrast that comes from styling it with a simple black T-shirt and a miniskirt (one of the hottest pieces from the AW22 catwalks, best worn with bare legs if you dare). I’ve kept the colours tonal to avoid clashing with the coat’s bold hue, but can’t stop myself from adding matching tinted sunglasses and my favourite neon green Balenciaga sandals (though I’m keeping trainers in my handbag, in case of rain).
Conceal and reveal
I’m always rushing between shows, meetings and photoshoots, so I need something that keeps me warm while showing off what I’m wearing underneath – and that’s where the genius of the sleeveless gilet comes in.
My advice here is to opt for a neutral colour to keep the focus on what lies beneath – ideally something with a statement sleeve or print for contrast. I’ve styled my Superdry Longline Puffer Gilet with a fitted Conner Ives dress that’s a fabulous mish-mash of colours and prints. It’s a piece I’ve worn all summer, so adding this extra layer means I can enjoy it for a little longer. I also love the versatility of the gilet’s detachable faux-fur hood. I’ve finished the look with some knee-high leather Miista boots for added cool (and waterproof toes).
Get your greens
Without a doubt, forest green is the colour of AW22, so I already know I’m going to be wearing this Superdry Short Puffer Coat to death. It’s the ideal everyday jacket that will keep me cosy while elevating even the most casual outfit.
I dress up a lot for my job, between glitzy parties and red carpet events, so on my days off I like to keep it low key in black jeans, a matching vintage-style T-shirt and box-fresh trainers from the likes of Loewe or Gucci. For drinks with friends, I’ll just swap trainers for a heeled boot – the easiest day-to-night transition ever.
Shop the full Superdry outerwear collection now at superdry.com
