The autumn workwear staples every woman needs in her wardrobe

This season is always a tricky one to dress for – but not anymore. (Picture: Metro/Getty) Metro 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 more We may still be clinging onto the last traces of summer, but there’s no denying autumn has officially arrived. With cooler mornings, darker evenings and a return to regular routines, many of us are turning our attention to refreshing our wardrobes for the season ahead. And if there’s one thing that makes getting out of bed for work that little bit easier, it’s having a few new outfits you’re genuinely excited to wear. Whether you’re heading into the office every day or splitting your time between home and work, building a hard-working workwear wardrobe can make getting dressed feel far less daunting. However, striking the right balance can be tricky. You want pieces that feel polished and professional without being overly formal, while still reflecting your personal style. To help, we enlisted the expertise of celebrity and fashion stylist Scott Da Silva-Wells, who said: ‘The high street has really delivered this season, with autumn collections packed full of versatile pieces that can easily be mixed and matched. From tailored trousers and shirts to waistcoats, knitwear and accessories, there are plenty of options for creating a workwear capsule wardrobe that takes the stress out of getting dressed each morning.’ Scroll on to discover the nine pieces Scott recommends investing in this autumn and where to shop them now. Waistcoats ‘Waistcoats have had a huge resurgence over the past year, and thank god. They are so easy to style whether you layer them with a white T-shirt underneath for a more casual edge, or go super tailored with a crisp shirt. One of best modern makeovers of these traditional tailoring treats are collarless styles that adds an instantly cooler and seamless vibe whether you style them with either denim or trousers’. Shirts ‘No workwear wardrobe would be complete without a shirt. It’s basically the base of the whole thing. Whether you wear it open with a vest top underneath for those temperamental transitional weather days, or buttoned up for that boss businesswoman vibe, you’ll never fail to look chic and smart. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. You can even take it one step further and add one of the most popular accessories of the year, a tie. There are many shirts now that come with coordinating ties for a cohesive and fashion-forward edge, or choose a contrasting separate tie to mix up the look.’ Midi Skirts ‘Midi skirts are brilliant as they easily blend professionalism and comfortability so you can always rely on them for wearing to the office. They’re also super flattering as the hem falls at a mid-calf length, meaning it elongates your silhouette, making you appear taller. The waistline is usually high-waisted, so it nips you in, highlighting your natural curves and creating an hourglass shape. There are so many new styles with the likes of lace trims, asymmetric hemlines, and printed fabric that everyone will be able to find a style suitable for their own tastes. Style them with baller flats or mules for the transitional season, and swap to knee-high boots for winter.’ Trousers ‘Another workwear staple is, of course, a pair of trousers that can be endlessly re-styled for any occasion you find yourself wearing them for. They’re a brilliant way to instantly add a smart, tailored touch to your outfits. Plain, straight designs have taken a back seat as pleated, wide-leg, flared styles have taken over the high street, providing a more put-together and modern aesthetic.’ Blazers ‘Strategic layering is an excellent styling skill, and blazers are your best friend. Of course they have the tailored edge that gives that smart finish, but you can wear them oversize with the arms scrunched up for a more casual look, wear them draped over your shoulders for a fashionable touch, or choose a cinched waist for a more modern design. These truly are wonderful items that effortlessly pull a look together. They’re also great to serve as an extra layer during your commute in the transitional season.’ Loafers ‘Loafers are a style of shoe that effortlessly complements whatever it is paired with, especially workwear. Their design gives off a polished style whilst eliminating the pain of heels for flat comfort. They’re one of those shoes that you can easily slip on whenever you’re in doubt of what footwear to wear.’ Cardigans ‘Once reserved for our grandmas, cardigans have been a much more appreciated layer that has taken over the high street. I’ve always been a fan as they are such a simple styling technique that elevates your outfit without trying too hard. Whether the office is chilly and you need added warmth, or it’s draped or tied over your shoulders for a more casual, softer edge compared to blazers. They’re also a great way to add some personality to your looks with their playful designs, bold colours and even short sleeve options available.’ Dresses ‘A workwear wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without a go-to dress that you can reach for on those days where you’re in a rush, or just don’t know what to wear. The rules around work dresses are much more lenient now, meaning you can show off your true style with the styles you choose. Choose a denim belted number for a chic yet off-duty aesthetic or a classic figure-hugging midi for an in-between style.’ Bags ‘You’ve got yourself a killer outfit that you feel confident in, to give it that ultimate seal of approval can only be done with a stylish bag that completes the look and ties it all together. Nowadays, oversize totes are a popular style as they give that refined, modern edge that is timeless.’ Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below Arrow MORE: The work bags that’ll have you almost looking forward to the commute Arrow MORE: The best faux fur coats and jackets for autumn 2026, from M&S to River Island Arrow MORE: Best lunch boxes for work to help save money on expensive meal deals Puzzles Newsletter Get your favourite puzzles when they are ready to play on the website sent directly to you every day and track your daily streak!