15 Pieces To Make Your Wardrobe Look More Expensive

Let’s call this your September wardrobe reset. We’re not talking trends, simply classic items that will instantly make everything you already own look seriously chic.

1. A modern trench

There is nothing more timeless than a classic trench coat. Throw one on, and you’ll look more elevated in no time. For AW26, it is being treated as the focal point of an outfit rather than a safe, practical transitional layer, so invest wisely. Look for oversized fits and high necklines. Burberry, unsurprisingly, made a strong case for this iconic piece, opening its London Fashion Week show with a ruffled trench and closing on an embossed vinyl version.

2. Chic loafers

September fashion is all about those key transitional pieces. In this case, swapping out the flip-flops for a more refined option. And loafers win my vote. Undoubtedly a strong trend across several seasons, and even more so in AW26, with the likes of Miu Miu, Saint Laurent, and The Row driving it. However, these shoes will never date, so they make for a particularly wise purchase.

3. Statement sunglasses

These are no-brainers, and they’ve proved very effective in my own wardrobe. Not only do they conceal late nights and bad makeup days, but they also look so very designer, even the coolest high street versions. Oversized frames remain dominant, while aviator silhouettes featured heavily on the autumn/winter runways.

4. A leather belt

How the humble belt fell out of favour, I’ll never know. That said, it is now one of the sought-after accessories. From Céline to Dior, designers embraced this statement piece like their collections depended on it. Look out for gold hardware, oversized buckles and western influences for all your September outfit ideas. Brands I’m particularly fond of include Madewell, Déhanche and, if I’m feeling decadent, Saint Laurent.

5. A cashmere knit

Simple, understated and the most underestimated piece in your wardrobe. Yes, some may call it basic, but really, it’s anything but. This mighty number exudes refinement and elegance, as well as an air of confident nonchalance. High street brands, like Uniqlo, John Lewis and Cos, have you covered. And bear in mind, a fitted cashmere top from a mid-tier brand will often look more expensive than an oversized piece from a luxury house, simply because the proportions read as intentional.

6. Chocolate brown heels

The editors have called it. Brown is the new black. Not only does it ooze class and sophistication, but it’s also so much softer than those ebony tones. So yes, we’re going to see an influx of chocolate-coloured dresses, coats and knitwear, but for me, the heels are the gateway to elevated style. The silhouette to look out for is the Victoria Beckham-inspired kitten heel in rich espresso hues. After all, this isn’t a micro-trend; it is a striking yet somewhat safe look set to last.

7. Tailored trousers

Any element of tailoring will add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe. As a result, even denim is moving in a more tailored direction to embrace the AW26’s shift toward pared-back luxury. But for something totally timeless, traditional trousers will never fail you. If you’re looking for a modern interpretation, opt for styles in chocolate brown or burgundy.

8. A white shirt

Clean, fresh and crisp, there’s no doubting the impact of a classic shirt. It’s both smart and relaxed; a rare piece that’s both a foundation and a statement. It’s no surprise this is an editor’s go-to, time and time again. For me, With Nothing Underneath is the master in this field, but Zara, Mango, and & Other Stories also deliver immaculate styles.

9. A wool coat

This will always give me ’90s romcom vibes. And it still works today. Cool and effortless with plenty of androgynous chic, a long wool coat is the epitome of investment-worthy style. Some would even suggest that it gets better with age, working seamlessly with everything from a slip dress to a jean-and-trainer combo. Maybe think of it like the cool-weather take on the trench coat.

10. An understated bag

Not necessarily designer, but definitely designer quality, a pared-back tote is a strong nod to expensive style. I’ve just treated myself to a woven leather one in chocolate brown from & Other Stories, and it’s given all the back-to-school feels. Essentially, that’s part of the effect. Carrying a luxe bag in the crook of your arm radiates a sense of renewed confidence and possibility, making you stand taller and exude an air of composure.

11. A blazer

Like tailored trousers, structured blazers, whether neatly cut or oversized, are transformative. So much so, my own wardrobe is fit to burst with them. Acting as the perfect complement to laid-back fits, powerhouse styles and even party looks, there’s a blazer for every day of the week. Anine Bing and The Frankie Shop have nailed this look to perfection, but high-street icons like Next or Zara will always have us covered.

12. Impactful jewellery

13. A pop of red

The unexpected red theory began as a social media viral trend; however, it’s hard to ignore the evidence. Add that pop of red and everything just looks so much better. Initially, it began with interiors, but our feeds quickly demonstrated that adding a tomato-hued scarf very quickly enhanced every single look.

14. Winter whites

Is there anything more chic than an all-white fit? To me, it whispers quiet luxury. A soft, ivory coat suggests money for dry cleaning and perhaps someone who is marginally less messy than myself. And then, top-to-toe, well, this is elegance at its best, spotted across the catwalks; it’s set to be a standout look for the coming months.

15. An oversized shirt

A freshly ironed (or steamed!) billowy item that somehow makes everything look cooler. Throughout the summer, we’ve seen it styled with lace-trimmed skirts and shorts. Now that autumn has crept in, we’re about to see pale blue and striped iterations everywhere, paired with tailored trousers, leather pencil skirts or even joggers.

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