This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.
Chocolate brown, a soft beige knit and a skirt with a little movement. This is the autumn outfit I’m drawn to right now: a high-collared jacket over an open neckline, a flowing hem and pointed boots underneath.
I started with the jacket and built the rest around it. Keeping the colours close gives the textures room to do their thing: smooth faux leather, fine merino, crinkled mesh and a slightly distressed bag. It feels polished, with enough edge to keep it interesting.
These are shopping picks I’ve brought together for the look; I haven’t tried the full outfit on.
The jacket: a little structure
The M&S chocolate faux-leather funnel-neck bomber is the starting point. The high collar and generous shape give it presence, while the shorter length works with a longer skirt. I’d wear it open enough to show the knit underneath, letting the collar frame the outfit.
The knit: an everyday layer
The Uniqlo beige 100% merino V-neck jumper brings lightness to the brown. I tend to prefer an open neckline, and this one leaves some space beneath the jacket’s collar. The fine knit also makes sense as a layer you can wear with jeans, tailoring or a skirt. I’d try a light front tuck to give the waist some definition.
The skirt: texture and movement
The Jolie Moi brown crinkle-mesh pleated elasticated maxi skirt softens the outfit. I like the contrast between its airy texture and the more substantial jacket and boots. The different shades of brown don’t need to match exactly; keeping them in the same family is enough.
Length is the detail I’d check when trying it on. The hem should move freely over the boots without catching or dragging.
The boots: a sharp finish
The H&M dark-brown knee-high leather boots bring a clean, pointed toe beneath the pleats. The simple design keeps the lower half sleek. With a long skirt, I’d check how the boot shaft sits beneath the fabric, as well as the heel height and comfort.
The bag: a touch of worn-in texture
The Charles & Keith Noane elongated-handle shoulder bag in distressed coffee adds another brown texture. It’s faux leather, with a zip and adjustable handles. The elongated shape feels right with the skirt, and the understated hardware keeps the whole thing relaxed.
The earrings: the finishing detail
The Orelia Oval Wave Hoop Earrings in gold add a small sculptural detail near the face. I’d leave the necklace off and let the V-neck stay open.
Make the combination your own
You may already have the bones of this outfit: a brown jacket, a light knit, a longer skirt and boots. Start there. The idea to borrow is the mix of structure and movement, with a close colour palette holding it together.
For more on finding combinations you want to repeat, read The New Professional Uniform Is Personal.
Want somewhere to start? T, Re: is my fortnightly letter on what’s actually changing in how we live well — across Mind, Body, Space and Freedom.
Sign up and the Whole-Life Wellness Audit comes with it: twenty honest questions, scored across Mind, Body, Space and Freedom.
Get the T, Re: → Newsletter
Whole life wellness. Mind, Body, Space and Freedom.
