A Lace Cardigan Is the Perfect Fall Date Night Top, and Zara’s $50 Polished Style Is So Elegant

When it comes to autumn dressing, your first thoughts might be of cozy knitwear, statement outerwear or tights and boots. All undeniably synonymous with cold weather dressing, but currently in early autumn, far from practical—unless you want to end up a sweaty mess by lunchtime. Trust me, I’m speaking from experience.Instead, if you’re looking for a stylish and suitable way to tap into the new season, allow us to point you in the direction of lace. Spotted all over the fall/winter 2026 runways at the likes of Chloé, Blumarine, and Cecilie Bahnsen, the luxe texture feels gothically glamorous in all-over iterations. Think a lace blouse or lace slip skirt. Polished, but not as dressed up as sequins, for example. Or, try just a touch in the form of a lace trim at the bust, hem or cuff of a dress. If we’re talking about guaranteed ways to nail new season style though, why not go all in?It doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds. Take Zara's lace top with buttons that provides an easy and affordable way to get in on the look. While pairing it with the coordinating lace underwired bra would make an on-trend and sexy date night look, layering a basic long-sleeve tee or simple tank top in a coordinating hue underneath is an effortless way to make this design more wearable. And just as elegant!As for your bottom half, all you need is a dark wash pair of jeans to give a tough edge and contrast against the feminine feel. Add a structured shoulder bag like DeMellier’s The Stockholm design or Polène's Shuldo style, plus your footwear of choice—split-toe ballet flats, pointed-toe kitten heels, masculine boat shoes or loafers—and you’re good to go.ZaraAlexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!