Whilst we're still in the midst of the hottest summer we’ve had in years, who knows how much longer it'll last. As we Brits know, the unpredictability of our weather means it can change overnight. As we near the end of summer, that tricky in-between transitional weather is on the way, and I, for one, want to be prepared.

Over the years, I've curated a lineup of autumnal capsule-wardrobe staples that I reach for as we head into the new season. Light knits, well-fitting jeans, classic shirts and suede loafers are hero pieces perfect for those early-autumn weeks when it’s not quite cold enough for big coats and chunky jumpers.

With dressing for my favourite season in mind, I’ve found five chic outfits ideal for a British autumn to give you some inspiration ahead of that wardrobe switchover. Doing this before we’re actually in the new season allows us to take a look at our wardrobes and spot any handy pieces that might be missing, rather than panic-buying when the weather suddenly drops. Here's hoping you find this as useful as I did!

1. Striped Polo + Barrel-Leg Jeans + Suede Loafers

(Image credit: @moicoconx)

Style Notes: Polo tops are really having a moment right now. With more structure than your average white T-shirt, they have an elevated finish that is great for layering when the temperature drops, too. It's also worth noting how Moicocon pairs suede loafers with a barrel-leg jean (pictured above); the voluminous leg with a tapered ankle gives a sculptural, curved silhouette, whilst the simplicity of the loafer doesn’t overpower the overall finish.

Shop the Look:

CELINE Triomphe Mini 02 Sunglasses in Acetate

A classic pair.

Life of Ease London Loe Striped Rugby

I've had my eye on this Life of Ease polo shirt for a while now.

CITIZENS OF HUMANITY Miro Mid-Rise Barrel-Leg Jeans

A subtle barrel silhouette.

SAINT LAURENT Le Loafer Supple in Suede

Saint Laurent's suede loafers are iconic.

& Other Stories Large Tote Bag

A suede tote instantly brings texture to an outfit.

2. Basic Tank Top + Grey Jeans + Flip-Flops

(Image credit: @francescasaffari)

Style Notes: An outfit like Francesca’s (above) is an absolute favourite of mine; there’s just something about its chic simplicity. I love how she’s opted for neutral hues and added that pop of colour with a burgundy handbag. Switching classic blue denim for grey or brown jeans in autumn gives a softer, unexpected finish, and for those who, like me, can’t quite let go of summer, don’t stow away your flip-flops just yet.

Shop the Look:

H&M Ribbed Cotton Vest Top

Such a good, affordable basic.

CLOSED Barrel Jeans

Francesca's exact jeans. I love the colour.

Massimo Dutti Stone Pendant Necklace

A statement pendant necklace is such a chic addition to a minimalist look.

RAILS Porto Sandal

I have these in brown, and they are so comfy.

Bottega Veneta Jodie in Deep Mahogany

One of Bottega Veneta's best-selling handbags in a gorgeous shade.

3. Trench Coat + Breton Top + Tan Wide-Leg Trousers

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Style Notes: If this isn’t an outfit full of autumn capsule pieces, then I don’t know what is. Such staple buys can create so many different looks, so it's no surprise that they work so well together. A trench coat is undoubtedly the piece I get the most wear out of during transitional periods, whilst a classic Breton top will see you through the seasons. Adding suede ballet flats is the easiest way to inject a little texture into the look, making this a practical and polished option.

Shop the Look:

Jimmy Fairly The Elma JF Colors

These autumnal hues compliment the rest of the look so well.

Whistles Khaki Riley Trench Coat

This is available in petite or regular sizes.

Miu Miu Striped Jersey T-Shirt

A striped Breton top is such a good investment, as it will be a wardrobe staple for years to come.

STUDIO NICHOLSON Peached Wide-Leg Cotton-Twill Trousers

These versatile trousers can be worn in so many looks.

Dear Frances Suede Balla Ballet Flats

Suede and autumn wardrobes go hand in hand.

4. Barn Jacket + White Jeans + Sandals

(Image credit: @hannahlewisstylist)

Style Notes: Barn jackets were so on-trend last year that you've likely already invested in one. You might think that white jeans should be reserved for summer, but take inspiration from Hannah (pictured above) and take them with you into autumn; they give a much softer finish to your look and pair so well with autumnal tans, browns and khakis. Sandals are ideal for the earlier autumn days, but as the season progresses, swap them for suede trainers.

Shop the Look:

Le Specs Duskfall in Tort Brown Mono

Le Specs sunnies look much more expensive than they are.

TOTEME Summer Country Corduroy-Trimmed Coated-Canvas Jacket

Toteme's barn jacket was a viral piece last year and comes in three different colours.

MANGO 100% Cotton Round Neck T-Shirt

A great layering piece.

M&S High Waisted Wide Leg Ankle Grazer Jeans

M&S denim comes in a seriously impressive size range.

ZARA Flat Leather Sandals

Simple leather flip-flops are so elevated.

5. Oversized Shirt + Jeans + Mules

(Image credit: @_livmadeline)

Style Notes: This is one of those looks that sounds so simple on paper but proves that simple doesn’t have to mean boring. The oversized shirt paired with straight- or wide-leg jeans keeps things relaxed, and adding a mule (or a heeled boot as the weather drops), instantly polishes the whole outfit.

Shop the Look:

CHANEL CH5416 Oval-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

These have such a timeless feel.

With Nothing Underneath The Boyfriend: Linen in Sky Blue Stripe

Linen doesn't have to be reserved for summer. Layer it over a tank top or T-shirt on early-autumn days.

COS Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

My new favourite pair of jeans.

Reformation Jeanne Heeled Mule

So elegant.

THE ATTICO La Passegiata Medium Asymmetric Shoulder Bag

The Attico is known for its structured, asymmetric shapes.