It’s official. Summer has drawn to a close and picky-bits-in-the park season is firmly behind us. Instead of mourning the loss of later evenings and warmer temps, we’re looking ahead to all the excitement that awaits us in ‘ber months of the year – chunky tights on repeat, the return of the pumpkin spice latte and weekend trips that call for luxuriously soft layers.
When it comes to preparing for said getaways, we’re team start planning asap and that means trawling Pinterest for outfit inspiration that nails what we like to think of as ‘winter girl chic’. As it happens, we didn’t have to look far this time around thanks to French fashion house Longchamp and the endearingly cool autumn/winter 25 collection – which is itself a lesson in being understated and full of character all at once.
So, if you’re thinking now might be a good time to consider a winter weekend away, or already have something planned with your girls, your partner or even just yourself, join us as we run through all the outfit essentials needed for the next trip.
London calling
Days spent in the UK capital call for a wardrobe as eclectic as the city itself. Layers are needed to see you through hours of brunching and perusing the V&A museum, and accessories should be practical without taking away your cool girl air – we’re talking generously sized leather totes, sleek sunglasses and definitely an umbrella, because let’s face it, this is England.
You’ll want to anchor everyday looks with a wear-anywhere coat like the Longchamp x Gloverall duffel, under which you can then rotate interchangeable separates. We’re thinking classic barrel jeans that can be dressed up with a scarf round the waist, at least three different sweaters (even better if they’re a lush mohair blend) and a super cute but walkable, pair of shoes – ballet pumps layered with cute socks would be our choice for chic femininity and comfort.
For the evening we say go bold for the big city, don’t be afraid to play with texture and colour. Statement pieces like a punk-infused, patent lambskin mini skirt for example, can easily be paired with a simple cami top for instant attitude. Alternatively, you could go bold in a bright red dress and team it with leather boots that perfectly match the handbag hooked on your wrist.
Faux Fur Energy Ballet Pumps
La Cavalière Leather Heel Boots
Le Roseau XS Handbag
To the country
One of our favourite things about countryside escapes – aside from being able to actually see the stars and hear our own thoughts – is the instant ease that seems to characterise everything from the pace of life to the outfits. This is the place to wear earthy tones, loose fits and that knitted jumper from your granny that’s actually totally back right now.
Since activities will probably be limited to long, slow walks through rolling hills and games by the fire, reliable (read: comfy) staples like wool-blend cardigans and chunky ankle boots are a must. If you’re feeling fancy you could even throw on a classic baseball cap to put a sporty spin on your knitwear du jour and channel Princess Di in the country.
We’d also suggest adding in a knitted dress or two and throwing a leather belt into a handbag to accent quietly chic jackets on the off-chance you decide to make the 30-minute drive to the local village and have to actually see people.
La Baroudeuse Ankle Boots
Pretty in Paris
There’s something about walking the streets of Paris that instantly ups the outfit stakes.
Because of this fact, we say less is always more when packing for a Parisien jaunt. Up top we recommend going classic with cotton-blend shirts and graphic tees paired with a satin scarf around the neck. For footwear, we’d stay along the lines of platform leather clogs and chunky loafers for poised polish.
A trusted trench coat goes a long way in keeping you sheltered from any showers and working as a look in its own right when cinched at the waist. Top any of your outfits with a luxe leather tote bag and you’re all set to channel your inner Emily (post-season 2) and go wandering the avenues of Paris looking like a local.
Graphic T-shirt
Le Roseau L Tote bag
Cotton Shirt
Visit Longchamp to discover the full autumn/winter 25 collection.
