Living in style: Your autumn wardrobe

In what is, for me, a devastating turn of events,  the start of September means the autumn season is coming back around. But instead of mourning the tank tops and oversized sunglasses, we can see this as an opportunity. It is undoubtable that the ‘fall’ aesthetic is the most well represented in TV fashion, which gives us a lot of inspiration for how to dress. For whatever you want your autumn aesthetic to be, whether that is casual flannel vibe or back-to-school chic, there is always a character who you can base your look on. And some of the most iconic autumn-centred characters can be styled using guidelines from Vogue and Cosmopolitan as to what is in for autumn 2026.

In my mind, autumn is only the cover name for what is actually Gilmore Girls season. If you are looking to be more casual or cosy, take inspiration from Rory Gilmore. Think chunky oversized sweaters and baggy jeans, using a palette that includes caramel, burgundy, and forest green to come together into a seamless New England style. Being completely timeless, this style will serve no matter the current trends. The recommended items for this look would be a cable knit cotton jumper, which you can find in a range of prices from places like Ralph Lauren or H&M. They may be slightly on the expensive side, but I can completely see Rory rocking some Ugg boots which will elevate this look to fit the contemporary fashion. Finish it off by buying a hot coffee to hold (or a lipgloss).

Another person to look to for a refined take on the season is Rachel Green, who I reckon is a very underrated autumn fashion inspiration

If you’re looking for a more refined take on the new season, look no further than Blair Waldorf – the reigning queen for New York back to school fashion. This look should feature tailored plaid skirts, patterned tights or headbands. This may be the inspiration to take for 2026, with Vogue claiming that this season is based off of an elegant blueprint, for which Blair is perfectly in tune. It ultimately means creating a structured silhouette for a polished look by utilising elegant tailoring; I’d recommend a flair and fit coat, which can be found reasonably priced in shops such as in Debenhams.

Another person to look to for a refined take on the season is Rachel Green, who I reckon is a very underrated autumn fashion inspiration. Professional and minimalist, Rachel is most often depicted in textures like wool, leather, and tweed, which can be lifted from the ’90s to fit the upcoming trends for 2026. Rachel drew the public’s attention to the importance of knee-high boots and small shoulder purses to create a perfectly put-together appearance. Even when layering, Rachel’s look manages to be streamlined rather than bulky, which can be replicated through including only lightweight items. The key is in the precision and the geometry of the outfit. For example, mock neck tops provide a clean line under blazers. Even her denim dungarees were perfectly fitted to her silhouette, with a simple white t-shirt emphasising the minimalism that makes it work. If you are on a higher budget, I would recommend Rachel’s beloved Ralph Lauren for this style.

Anne is centred around an earthy harvest palette

On the other end of the spectrum is Pretty Little Liar’s Aria Montgomery, who rocks edgy, maximalist autumn fashion that manages to incorporate artistic softness while retaining an alternative edge. To follow her style, you will want extreme pattern mixing and heavy fabric juxtaposition, such as feminine dresses or skirts with chunky footwear. Make sure to top it off with massive statement jewellery to complete the look. If we want to bring Aria into 2026, we need a moody palette for which layering is the foundation. A simple dress should include a leather jacket, or a mesh long sleeve top underneath. While Aria tended to opt for a cropped leather jacket or blazer, I would personally update this to be more fashionably oversized. Just remember to keep a consistent colour palette while mixing patterns. Aria usually adds a solid neutral like a belt or denim jacket to break the outfit up, keeping it looking put together. She provides a lesson in organised chaos. Cosmopolitan claims that texture will be an important staple for 2026 autumnal fashion, for which Aria will provide an ideal blueprint – match her wardrobe to the trends with faux fur, velvet or lace.

Finally, I give you Anne of Green Gables, the founding matriarch of a romantic rural autumnal style. Utilising items such as puff sleeves, blouses, or whimsical country accessories like ribbons, Anne is centred around an earthy harvest palette that balances on rust orange, chocolate brown, and creamy off whites. Though I do love Anne, not everyone may want to look like they have stepped out of the nineteenth century, so to make this style contemporary, you could wear tiered dresses or midi skirts, giving her outfits an updated twist.

But don’t worry – if this all seems like a bit much effort, a Coraline raincoat will always be in.