Autumn chic is not a strictly defined dress code like black tie. It usually means dressing festively and neatly, with colours and layers that suit the autumn. How formal you go therefore depends mainly on the invitation, location and occasion.
What does autumn chic mean?
The term mainly gives a direction: slightly smarter than an ordinary daytime outfit, with attention to season and location. Warm tones, an extra layer and closed shoes are logical options in October, but not a requirement. If the invitation contains additional information, that always takes priority.
The colours of autumn
Brown, taupe, burgundy, beige, dark blue and grey suit the season well, but autumn chic does not mean you may only wear autumn colours. For a wedding, if in doubt, ask whether white, ivory or very light shades are acceptable for guests.
Autumn chic for women and men
This table puts the parts of an outfit side by side so you can quickly see what works.
| Item | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Blouse with smart trousers or a dress | Shirt with smart trousers |
| Colours | Navy, taupe, burgundy, grey, light blue | Taupe grey, coffee brown, navy, light blue |
| Layer | Cardigan, blazer or a light coat | Sport coat or a wool cardigan |
| Shoes | Closed shoes, pumps or loafers | Leather lace-up shoes or loafers |
| Accessories | Fine jewellery and a small bag | Belt in the colour of the shoes |
You do not need to buy anything new for this dress code. Often an existing pair of trousers with a blouse or shirt is already enough. Only add an extra layer or accessory if the occasion or the weather calls for it.
Three outfits for women
- Blouse and trousers. The tailored-fit Delphine in shadow blue with the high-waist Arabelli in navy makes a calm blue combination.
- With a light shade. The lavallière blouse Rosamund in light blue under a dark sport coat, with the same Arabelli. The bow adds a soft, festive touch.
- With warmth. The same blouse under a burgundy or brown cardigan. A warm shade in a chilly hall keeps things cosy.
Two outfits for men
- Shirt and taupe. The light blue Hamilton shirt with Italian collar combines well with the Ulysses in taupe grey. Ulysses currently has a slim-straight fit. Add a navy sport coat if the occasion is more formal.
- Warm browns. The same shirt also works with the coffee brown Frederick. The brushed inside makes it suitable for cooler days. A dark sport coat can make the combination more formal.
How formal is autumn chic?
Because autumn chic has no official fixed scale, one party can be clearly more formal than another. A blazer, sport coat or smarter shoe moves the outfit towards formal; a cardigan or understated sneaker makes it more relaxed. So look at the invitation and location first.
Per occasion
At a wedding, a lavallière blouse or sport coat can add a festive detail. At a dinner or reception, the same base can work without an extra accessory. The programme matters more than the name of the dress code.
Layers for changeable weather
At an autumn party an extra layer is above all practical. Check the temperature, wind and ground beforehand. A cardigan, blazer or sport coat is easy to take off; at an outdoor location, shoes with enough grip matter more than a fixed style rule.
Shoes and bag
Loafers, lace-up shoes, pumps, boots or an understated sneaker can all work, depending on the invitation and location. Above all, choose shoes you can comfortably stand and walk in.
Common mistakes
- Not taking the weather into account. An outfit can work well in the daytime and be too cold in the evening.
- Taking the dress code too literally. Autumn chic does not have to consist solely of brown, burgundy or beige.
- Wanting to add too much at once. If colour, shine and accessories are all strongly present, the outfit can become busy.
- Not bringing a layer. A cold hall or outdoor spot always comes unexpectedly.
You can find more ideas for festive occasions in our Signature Occasions for Women and Signature Occasions for Men. Also take a look at the women's blouses and the men's trousers.
Shop the look
Delphine: tailored blouse with princess seams, shadow blue
Arabelli: high-waist pleated trousers, navy
Hamilton: cotton shirt with Italian collar, light blue
Ulysses: slim-fit herringbone trousers, taupe grey
Frederick: pleated trousers with brushed inside, coffee brown
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between autumn chic and smart casual?
Autumn chic is usually interpreted as more festive than smart casual, but the exact interpretation depends on the invitation.
May I wear trousers for autumn chic?
Yes. Smart trousers with a blouse or shirt and a layer work perfectly well, as long as the colours and fabrics look polished.
Which colours should I avoid at an autumn wedding?
At a wedding, ask whether white, ivory and very light shades are acceptable for guests. Always follow any colour requests on the invitation.
Can I wear sneakers for autumn chic?
That is possible with a more informal interpretation. At a more formal location, loafers, lace-up shoes, pumps or boots are often more logical.
What if a garment does not fit?
If something does not fit, please check the current terms on our returns page.
