Denim really comes into its own at this time of year

I’m back from my weekend in sunny Valencia where it was 33 degrees and oh my I really am not built for the intense heat.

I did my utmost best not to be a complete sweaty mess but without walking around the city in swimwear it was really hard to keep cool whilst wearing clothing. I was very thankful though for my linen items and the numerous pairs of shorts I had packed and also that we were near to the sea for impromptu dips in the ocean.

Now that I’ve returned and have entered into my favourite season, I am absolutely buzzing to get going on my autumn wardrobe. It’s the season I feel the best in and also the season that I have invested the most in my wardrobe so I feel like I’ve already got a good base to work with. Honestly there really isn’t much newness that I need. I’m a year-round denim wearer but I do think that denim really comes into its own at this time of year. I’ll be styling up my denim in classic ways for the season ahead with maybe a sartorial twist or two thrown in for good measure.

Firstly, when the weather is still warmish and you don’t really need a coat I love to pair darker denim or you can go lighter if you prefer with a statement knit. Statement knits have really come into their own in the last few years and there’s a gorgeous knitwear to suit all budgets. Now if you’re feeling very spenny then of course you could invest in the OG of luxury knits and that’s a Hayley Menzies cardigan.

I have a long and a shorter version and while I wear both a lot I in fact wear the longer version a lot more often. They look great belted or worn loose and you really just need a great pair of jeans and a t-shirt underneath to let the knit be the star of the show. On a more mid-level price point I adore Never Fully Dressed and this season they have absolutely stunning cardigans. They are a lovely thick quality with cool prints and the shorter styles makes them ideal to wear buttoned over denim. I have a NFD knit from about five years ago and it’s still as good as new.

For a more paired back and classic look I’ll be wearing a barrel leg denim with a white shirt and trench coat and finishing the look off with ballet flats and a great leather handbag. You really can’t underestimate how much a good quality handbag will elevate this look.

If you’re not really into the white shirt then try a pinstripe, oversized shirt or go for double denim. I am obsessed with a double denim look and I really think it’s a perfect look for the autumn and its not too heavy but equally not too light. Also think about denim jackets for this time of year but look for more modern, updated silhouettes. I bought a loose fitting denim jacket with a bell sleeve which ties at the waist and it’s really more of a blazer than a casual jacket. I have worn it so much over jeans and with a coloured roll neck top underneath. Again, really think about your accessories an invest in a great leather handbag and you’ll be super chic all the way through the season with classic separates.