I Searched High and Low—These 34 Chic New-Season Pieces Are Truly Special

It’s official: My journey as an honourary Parisian has begun. But unfortunately, the gloomy forecast has followed me from the UK. Whereas I’d usually be swathed in cotton-rich frocks and open-toe sandals at this time of year, I’ve reverted to closed-toe shoes and lightweight outerwear. As a result, I'm already gravitating towards the green, ochre, and brown colourways I don in the cooler months and envisaging my dream autumn wardrobe.

Come rain or shine, dresses are my favourite pieces to invest in. I’ve analysed the trends and embraced some revived shapes for their timeless appeal, from bandeau silhouettes and column maxis to (dare I say it) shorter hemlines—a wildcard for me. But I am in Paris, after all.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been an avid list writer. I pen everything from wants and desires to daily pursuits and nonsensical rambles in my Notes app, and the same sentiment has trickled into my fashion-buying process. I've fully entered pre-autumn-mode, and for August, I'm carrying out an inventory.

Not only is August my birthday month, but it’s also a special time of year, the junction that signifies the melting point of the seasons. The weather is so unsettled this year that autumn feels like it’s just on the horizon, and Christmas is a quiet hum in the background. So, there's nothing for it but to look ahead and prepare my shopping guide for autumn.

Accessories are worth noting, and my, have we been spoilt with options! I’m big on earrings—in every sense of the word. I’ve introduced overstated styles into my arsenal and already know I’m likely to wear them for years to come with pared-back ensembles. Organic-shapes like shell adornments are highly sought-after, and belts that were once lacklustre are set to become a star feature in our outfits. Not to mention bags, which are becoming plush and luxurious, in rich, earthy hues.

Suffice to say, August is looking like a good month for fashion, so here's hoping that same positivity transcends to the weather.

Ahead are the 35 pieces that I'm most excited about. And if you're obsessed with dresses and jewels, this one is for you.

Shop My August Edit:

If I didn't already own a black bandeau dress, this would be first on my list. Between the sculpted top and flounced skirt, it's a piece worth lauding. 

I've seen hundreds of trench coats this year and I think this may be the best one yet.

Christopher Esber's latest moss-hued designs are inspired by Australian artist Ray Crooke's landscapes and depictions of the ocean—fluid and glossy with a hint of tropical. These revealing splices have become synonymous with his designs.

I love voluminous skirts and earthy tones, so I was excited by Esse Studios' latest drop. The pinched pleats make this even fuller, so I'd pair it with a fitted bandeau top.

I love when I stumble across a classic, well-made and affordable piece on the high street. This sleeve detail is so sweet, and you can wear it as a bardot neckline or with the shoulders propped up. The best part? It's available in UK sizes 6-24.

I've appreciated accessories in unique hues for a few years now, and A/W 23 has already granted us plenty. I'm in awe of this bag by Massimo Dutti—one of the most luxe I've seen on the high street.

Since autumn 2022, I've been searching for the perfect streamlined mary jane to suit my taste. This style has my name written all over it.

Folklore the Label is an artisanal brand inspired by geometric shaping. Its latest drop is nothing short of excellence, and this moss colourway is a hue I've been leaning into over the past few years. I have a feeling it's here to stay.

With this seashell-adorned necklace, you'll never feel too far from the ocean.

You can't dispute the excellence of Victoria Beckham's designs. The ruched waist detail with the rounded sleeve makes this an LBD to rival the rest.

Although this is a voluminous style, the fabric lends it a casual appeal, meaning you can style it with anything from heels to flip-flops. There are many bandeau dresses on the market, but none I've seen with a gathered corset.

If you ask me, contemporary labels are becoming far more appealing than top-end designers. Case in point: Advene's swoon-worthy accessories. This triangular-shaped design has elements to suit all outfits and occasions.

These opulent jewels are best worn with bandeau necklines to show off the dramatic length.

After the success of its A/W 22 pieces, By Malene Birger is back with another slew of elevated designs. Of course, it had to include more perforated knits.

Lil Milan brings us this concave structural pearl choker which symbolises the ebb and flow of waves. Perhaps one of the most directional pearl pieces I've seen to date. 

You'll only know how difficult it is to find a good belt when you're on the hunt for a good belt. This one exceeded my expectations; the colourway and quality deserve to be applauded. 

The details on this dress are outstanding, from the sleeves to the pintuck stitching and ruching. I had this exact dress on my wish list when it was £695 last year, and now you can find it on The Outnet for £383. 

Between the scrunched straps, wooden sole and linen fabric, this is a completely unique take on the mary jane.

I love simple pieces like this which, contrary to popular belief, can indeed be worn throughout the year. Add knitwear during the winter and wear it as is when the weather is warm.

I'm really loving the directional stance of jewellery this season (I'm currently wearing seashells as an ode to the ocean at any given opportunity), and these earrings lend a rustic texture and overstated element that I'm enamoured by. Wear them with a pared-back outfit and let the jewels do all of the talking.

This standout piece is where fluid glamour meets a languid silhouette. It's so easy to wear and there are so many ways to style it.

This form-fitting top is crafted from a slightly sheer silk georgette and is puckered throughout. It'll breathe life into your usual basics.

J&M designs are quiet but oh-so intentional. The gold buckle is a chic accent that will match most of my jewels.

Just when you thought top-half dressing can feel uninspiring, COS brings its modern designs. Although this top features ruching and asymmetry, it'll slot perfectly into the wardrobe of a minimalist.

I'm a firm believer that getting dressed starts with undergarments that make you feel your best. I can't stop thinking about these briefs. Designed with a '90s essence and crafted from silk, they're bound to make you feel special.

Khaite's ruched top inspired many cocooned styles, and this Reformation dress is one of my favourites yet. It'll make a great occasion dress.

Aeyde masters modern footwear with a nostalgic appeal (if only school-shoe designs were this chic!). The double knot feature and low block heel drew me to this transitional design that can be worn from now.

Nanushka is another designer that has a special place in my heart. This newly released dress is more cropped than my usual pieces, but I had to include it for its divine colour. 

I'm a stickler for quality fabrics. This is something that often lacks when it comes to suiting, but Laura Pitharas exclusively uses certified sustainable materials. This blazer, for example, comprises a 100% wool outer, with a viscose and cotton lining, whereas the majority of suiting is lined with polyester. 

I own Skims' original dress and it fast became one of my wardrobe staples. I adore this design equally. The delicate laced trim is subtle but it transforms the style completely.

Another great designer-inspired bag on the high street in a mushroom colourway I love. 

Indie label No Emotions recently came to my attention, and I think it should be on your radar too. I adore the simplicity of this LBD, which features a cut-out back detail and a high-neck to balance the proportions of the design. It's certainly playing a part in my graduation towards minis.

The ruffled adornment turns this simple slip design into something with a whimsical and romantic element. It's an easy-to-wear but charming piece.

I'm astonished by the design of this bag. I've seen it in person and the construction looks every bit as special. It's worth noting these earthy hues, as you'll be seeing more of them in the lead up the autumn.