The 7 autumn wardrobe items that are secretly ageing you and what to wear instead, according to an award-winning stylist

Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn moreAutumn is one of my favourite seasons to style as an award-winning personal stylist - because there are so many great pieces to work with. But it's also the season when our wardrobes can very quickly become a little predictable.We reach for the same dark coat, sensible ankle boots, chunky knit and pair of jeans we've had for years and without realising it, our outfits can start to make us look older than we actually are.The good news? You don't need a whole new wardrobe. Often, it's simply about updating the cut, colour or the way you wear something.Below I reveal the seven pieces I'd look at first - and the simple updates that will instantly make you look younger... 1. The shapeless, oversized knitThere's nothing wrong with an oversized knit, but too much volume can easily overwhelm your frame and make an outfit look frumpy rather than relaxed.The swap: Look for a knit with some structure. A slightly cropped shape, a defined shoulder or a V-neck can make a huge difference.You can still have that cosy autumn feeling without losing your shape. I always tell my clients: oversized should look intentional, not like you've borrowed someone else's jumper.2. The long, black cardiganThe long black cardigan has become a wardrobe default for many women but worn in the same way year after year, it can drain colour from your face and make an outfit feel dated.The swap: Try a softer neutral, chocolate brown, burgundy or one of this season's richer autumn shades. And instead of automatically wearing it open, try a shorter cardigan or button it up and wear it as a top.Sometimes the most flattering change isn't buying something completely different; it's simply changing how you wear what you already own.3. The skinny jeanI'm not saying you have to throw your skinny jeans away. If you love them and feel great in them, keep them.But if your entire denim collection is still based around a skinny silhouette, your wardrobe may be starting to feel stuck in a previous fashion era.The swap: Try a straight-leg, relaxed straight, barrel or subtle wide-leg jean. The key is balance. A wider leg doesn't mean you need to go oversized everywhere else. A more fitted top, a tucked-in shirt or a shorter jacket can create a much more modern silhouette.4. The tired black blazerA black blazer is a wardrobe classic but there's a difference between classic and simply old.If yours has very narrow lapels, a dated fit, shiny fabric or has lost its shape after years of wear, it can instantly pull an outfit backwards.The swap: Look for a blazer with a more contemporary cut. A slightly longer length, stronger shoulder or relaxed tailoring can make a huge difference.And don't underestimate colour. Navy, chocolate, burgundy, grey or even a soft camel can sometimes be far more flattering and modern than another black blazer.5. The 'safe' ballet flatBallet flats are back, but the problem isn't the ballet flat itself, it's wearing the same conservative style you've been wearing for years.The swap: Look for a more directional version. Think square toes, Mary Jane details, interesting textures, metallic finishes or a more sculptural shape.Shoes are one of the easiest ways to make an existing wardrobe feel current without replacing everything.6. The matching knitwear setMatching jumpers and cardigans can be incredibly useful, but when everything is too coordinated, the result can sometimes feel more 'mumsy' than modern.The swap: Break the set up. Wear the cardigan with denim and a T-shirt. Wear the knitted top with a different colour trouser. Add a belt, scarf or statement shoe.Modern style is often about creating a little tension in an outfit rather than making everything match perfectly.7. The 'practical' ankle bootThe ankle boot is an autumn essential, but a dated toe shape, heavy sole or overly practical design can make even a great outfit feel old-fashioned.The swap: Update the shape. A pointed or softly squared toe, a sleek knee-high boot, a modern loafer or a slightly chunkier but streamlined boot can instantly bring an outfit up to date.And think about proportion. Where your boot finishes against your trouser or hemline can completely change how modern the outfit looks.My biggest autumn style tip? Don't ask yourself, 'Is this item still fashionable?' Ask yourself, 'Does this item still feel like me?'Your wardrobe shouldn't be a museum of every trend you've ever bought. But neither should it be a time capsule. You don't need to dress younger. You need to dress current.The most stylish women I work with aren't necessarily wearing the newest clothes. They understand what works for them, what feels modern and how to put their existing wardrobe together in a way that reflects who they are now.Sometimes the most powerful autumn wardrobe update is simply looking at your clothes with fresh eyes.