“Never was a cloudy day,” sang Earth, Wind & Fire about September. We might not have an Indian summer on our hands but there are high(ish) temperatures on the horizon, meaning we’re keeping that endless vacation feeling going as long as humanly possible.
The key to navigating this in-between period is being prepared for sweaty afternoons and cool evenings. In our book that means embracing the practical art of layering, pairing a strappy dress with lace tights or teaming baggy jorts with a leather jacket and biker boots. Whatever you choose, it’s best to be prepared for every weather eventuality.
And for the autumn obsessives who can’t wait for cosy knits and their Gilmore Girls rerun, we have plenty of style inspiration to take you into the new season, too.
From knitted handbags to denim trench coats, click through the slideshow ahead to see everything Team R29 has their eye on this September…
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Susan Devaney, Lifestyle Director
I love the simplicity of a pair of small gold hoops. Not only can you wear them with any outfit but they’re also timeless so you’ll never tire of them. This single Mejuri huggie hoop is on my wish list for that very reason.
Mejuri Single Easy Huggie Hoop, $, available at Mejuri
It could be possible that Adidas by Stella McCartney has designed the perfect running shorts. This two-in-one style looks both comfy and practical. I’m game.
adidas by Stella McCartney Truepurpose Training Short, $, available at Adidas
I’m all about trying to buy less, buy better. This shirt from Piece Of White x Bettina Looney is made from linen, ideal for warmer days and all year round, too.
Piece of White Thea Shirt, $, available at Piece of White
Kelly Washington, Social EditorThe ubiquitous Uniqlo bag has changed my life (it’s perfect for summer festivals and has been spotted in pub gardens everywhere) but for travelling I need to up my game. July’s Carry Me Cross Body Bag is lightweight, compact and durable. Designed to fit your passport, wallet, phone, makeup, sleep mask, AirPods, battery pack (and anything else you may need), it’s functional without being clunky. The outside is made from an unbreakable German polycarbonate shell and can fold flat to save space. I predict we’ll soon be spotting these in pub gardens, too.
I’m a sucker for a chunky silver earring. Lucy Williams x Missoma’s Arco Small Hoops have captured my heart and mind. Customer reviews say they’re subtle and comfortable enough for everyday wear but I love that they still make a statement. Bonus: The brand creates its designs from recycled materials and offers carbon-neutral delivery and returns.
Missoma x Lucy Williams Small Hoop Earrings, $, available at Missoma
This autumn I’m hankering after a denim trench coat. Like its predecessor, last winter’s leather trench, the denim trench has all the sophistication with a casual twist. London-based brand Aligne has reimagined the classic trench silhouette in 100% organic cotton, which is perfect for layering. As a petite person, I struggle to find long coats that fit me without making me look like an infant. So I was pleased to find out that Aligne has partnered with SOJO to offer a tailoring service — music to my ears.
Aligne Jamison Denim Trench Coat, $, available at Aligne
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living EditorI don’t need another silly little bag. But making one out of an old bedsheet feels like a good way to justify one.
Rows Knitwear Helix Bag – Knitting Pattern, $, available at Rows
I’m a sucker for a oversized crisp white shirt.
COS Oversized Cotton-Blend Shirt, $, available at COS
A grown-up Italian cousin to the Birkenstock Boston mules, and just as useful for taking the bins out.
Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer & Content ProducerLooking ahead to autumn, I want a do-it-all, thrown-on-and-go top for impromptu dates, pub drinks or work events. Something about an exposed shoulder just screams understated, sexy elegance to me. I’ll wear it with a midi slip skirt for dressy affairs and with wide-leg jeans for casual hangs.
Urban Outfitters Fern Long-Sleeved Cupro Off-The-Shoulder Top, $, available at Urban Outfitters
I need everything in my life to be adorned with bows, including my bag. It would bring me so much joy every time I left the house.
Room Shop The Bowie Bag, $, available at Room Shop
I love everything that Les Miss stocks but this cat skirt? It’s not just a want, it’s a need.
Less Miss NYC The Cat Mini Skirt, $, available at Less Miss NYC
Alicia Lansom, Associate EditorStatement earrings are a hair-up girl’s best friend.
Mango Wavy maxi relief earrings, $, available at Mango
Tube-friendly tanks for in-between weather? Lovely.
Bimba y Lola Gray Fitted Chilli Top, $, available at Bimba y Lola
If there were ever an autumn-appropriate dress, this is it.
Damson Madder Dakota Bow Midi Dress, $, available at Damson Madder
Lauren Cunningham,Affiliate ContributorI’m hoping these soft-soled Tevas will keep the summer going for just a little bit longer.
Teva Original Universal Sandals, $, available at Arket
I’m slowly starting to introduce colour into my predominantly neutral wardrobe and this vibrant green jumper is the perfect way to do it. Crafted from 100% wool, it’ll be warm and cosy for autumn, too.
COS Cropped V Neck Wool Jumper, $, available at COS
I’m in desperate need of a bag big enough to hold my laptop, water bottle and (on particularly motivated days) gym kit and this leather tote is just stunning.
