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I spent most of the fall/winter 2026 fashion month staring at shoes instead of the clothes they were attached to, which either makes me extremely good at my job or means I have a real problem. I’m going with the former. As someone who’s quite the clothing person, this is a relatively new development for me. I’ve always been able to appreciate a good shoe, obviously, but this season, I found myself remembering the shoes long after I’d forgotten what was happening above the ankle. Maybe it was the styling, maybe it was the sheer number of genuinely good options, or maybe we’re entering a very good era for footwear. Whatever the reason, I was paying attention.

Five trends kept turning up no matter which show I sat through, from Milan to Paris, and what made them stand out was how wearable they actually felt. These aren’t the kind of runway trends that require six months of convincing, a completely new wardrobe, or a very specific fashion-person personality to pull off. They’re shoes you could realistically start wearing now—and, more importantly, actually want to wear. Here are the five that have officially caught my attention.

Jazz Shoes

Introducing the lace-up, low-to-the-ground flat replacing your ballets. Celine, Bottega and Prada all sent their versions down the Fall 2026 runway introducing a new it-shoe. The structured toe and lace-up detail give them more presence than a ballet flat without losing the comfort, and they work with a trouser just as well as a slip skirt.

Moccasins and Slippers

Miu Miu and Loewe sent this soft, house-shoe-adjacent shoe style down the runway this season with several other labels designing moccasin-leaning loafers. The common thread is comfort that still reads intentional, nothing about these looks like you gave up.

Cap Toe

Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel may have quite the waitlist, but he’s not the only designer creating two-tone cap toe shoes this season. It’s a small design detail that does a lot for an otherwise simple pump or boot, dressing it up without adding any extra hardware.

Panel Effect

Speak of two-tone, there’s more than one way to do it. It has been a Chanel signature for decades, but it was remixed with paneled and color-blocked styles everywhere from Isabel Marant to Ferragamo. The panels do the work a print usually would, adding visual interest without turning the shoe into the loudest thing in the outfit. An ‘80s feel really comes into play here.

Vintage Inspired Wedges

Wedges are back, but the version showing up this season leans sculptural instead of summery, more ’40s-inflected than boardwalk. Sportmax and Diesel all sent structured wedge silhouettes down the Fall 2026 runway, and the satin and leather versions translated easily into a fall outfit.

Let’s get stylish, okay? I know you’re already stylish, so what I really mean is let’s add some chic items to that wardrobe. Zara is a great resource to uncover the modern staples to create fashionable outfits.

Below, you’ll find an edit of the best new fall arrivals from Zara. Forward jackets? You better believe you’ll find everything from cool funnel-neck styles to leathers. What about versatile basics? You’ll absolutely find standouts, along with gorgeous shoes, knits, and more.

I’ve always had a bit of a lip balm addiction. There’s always one on my bedside table, one (or three) in my handbag, a couple in my desk drawer and, much to the frustration of my husband, a few more scattered chaotically around the house. And whilst autumn’s arrival feels like a natural time to talk about the best ones—traditionally the weather starts to cool, and the air feels a little more harsh—I’ve found that dry, chapped lips can be just as much of a summer problem as they are an autumn and winter one. Emerging from a season of pretty intense heat and sun exposure, I’ve found that my lips are already feeling chapped, tight and flaky. Which is why I’ve been on a quest to find the best lip balms for dry lips.

For me, a good lip balm is less of a nice-to-have and more of a daily beauty essential, and the best ones are those that genuinely make a difference to the condition of my lips long-term. Plus, I’m fickle, so while they do need to deliver on intense hydration and rich moisture, I’m partial to ones that also smell amazing and look great too. I’ve tried hundreds over the years, but before we get into the ones I’m willing to pay genuine lip service to, I wanted to know exactly what causes dry lips and how we should be looking after them.

What Causes Dry Lips?

Unsurprisingly, dry lips are one of the most common skin issues. “It’s because the skin on our lips is much thinner and doesn’t have the same oil glands as the rest of our skin, so it loses moisture more easily,” explains aesthetic nurse and founder of R&R Aesthetics, Caroline Hall. “Cold weather, sun exposure, air conditioning, dehydration and repeatedly licking your lips can all make it worse.” However, Hall does mention that if you are experiencing persistent or extreme dryness then it could point to an underlying issue like an allergy (to skincare or even toothpaste) or a condition like eczema. “Lips that are continually cracked, sore or inflamed are worth getting checked rather than simply applying more lip balm,” she advises.

How to Choose the Best Lip Balm

It seems that the key to choosing an efficacious lip balm is to spend a bit of time looking at the ingredients list. Hall recommends choosing a balm that contains ingredients that both add moisture and help to seal it in. Her top pick? Good old-fashioned petrolatum: yes, that’s Vaseline. “Petrolatum is one of the simplest and most effective options for reducing moisture loss, while ingredients such as shea butter, ceramides and squalane can help soften and support the skin barrier.” For daytime use, rather than an overnight treatment, Hall also suggests looking for a lip balm with SPF to combat UV exposure, which can cause dry and damaged lips.

As for any ingredients to avoid? “I’d be careful with anything that makes your lips tingle, sting or feel particularly cooling. Ingredients like menthol, camphor and some fragrances may actually irritate already dry or cracked lips,” Hall explains. She also recommends avoiding lip scrubs or exfoliators when lips are very dry. “If the skin barrier is already damaged, repeatedly exfoliating it can make the problem worse,” she says.

The Best Lip Balms for Dry Lips

• Best Overall Lip Balm for Dry Lips: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume Lips (£9)
• Best SPF Lip Balm: Mecca Cosmetica Lip De-Luscious SPF20 (£20)
• Best Plumping Lip Balm: Alpha-H Peptide Lip Perfector (£23)
• Best Everyday Lip Balm: The Ordinary Squalane & Amino Acids Lip Balm (£9)
• Best Overnight Lip Treatment: Tatcha The Kissu Lip Mask (£27)

1. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume Lips

When my lips are really struggling—particularly during instances where I’ve been unwell and I’m dehydrated, or I’ve spent a lot of time outdoors—then this is the lip balm that I always come back to. Rather than a glossy balm or tinted formula, it’s a real barrier-focused product that feels like it really tackles repairing compromised lips and helps restore their health. It has quite a thick texture that really coats the lips and helps to take the sting out of any particularly dry or uncomfortable patches, yet it isn’t sticky in the slightest. It’s a great option to keep by your bed and apply generously overnight, just because it does have that thicker consistency that makes it feel more like a treatment, but it would make a decent everyday option too if you really struggle with dry or very chapped lips.

2. Mecca Cosmetica Lip De-Luscious SPF20

I’m a big believer that lip balm should ideally come with SPF, particularly because it’s an area that’s very easy to forget when applying sunscreen. And as someone who has actually burnt their lips in the past, I am well aware of just how sore they can be. Mecca Cosmetica’s Lip De-Luscious is the balm that I’ve been reaching for most during the heatwaves this summer for that very reason—it contains SPF 20. Plus, it’s also packed with shea butter, plant oils and vitamin E so it doesn’t compromise on hydration either. It’s moisturising yet feels lightweight, and delivers the prettiest pink sheen to lips so I tend to skip my usual lip glosses and lipsticks when I wear this. The pot is robust enough to chuck into handbags and beach bags too, yet it’s pleasingly weighty so feels quite luxurious when you take it out to reapply too.

3. Alpha-H Peptide Lip Perfector

I’m always sceptical of lip products that promise plumper-looking lips, and have always hated those intensely tingling glosses that practically burn your lips into looking more full. However, this one from Alpha-H has only recently landed on my doorstep, but I’ve been wearing it every day since. While the peppermint oil does give a slightly refreshing tingle, it’s the science-backed peptides that really do the heavy lifting when it comes to plumping and smoothing lips. Plus, it uses plant-based lanolin sodium hyaluronate to deeply hydrate, so not only do my lips end up looking subtly more full and juicy, but they feel genuinely moisturised too. It’s great worn alone, but I particularly love it as a base for lipstick to get that really cushioned, smooth look.

4. The Ordinary Squalane & Amino Acids Lip Balm

5. Tatcha The Kissu Lip Mask

6. Rhode Peptide Lip Tint

Even if it’s just a subtle wash, I rarely step out of the house without some kind of tint on my lips so I’m always going to be tempted by a lip balm that offers both hydration and colour. And, like so many other people, Rhode’s Peptide Lip Tints have become a staple for those days when I want to feel more put together without actually wearing lipstick. Packed with peptides, shea butter and vitamin E, the formula feels nourishing and glossy while the tint provides a sheer pop of colour that can easily be applied without a mirror. I particularly love Jelly Bean, a sheer and slightly shimmery pink, and Colada, a summery pink-bronze shade.

7. CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment

Although this isn’t purely a lip balm, I’m including it here because it’s one of my favourite multipurpose products for tackling seriously dry skin—and that includes lips. When mine are flaky, tight or in need of some serious TLC, I like applying a generous layer of this before bed and letting the hardworking formula do its thing overnight. It feels rich and protective, thanks to pharmaceutical-grade petrolatum, ceramides and hyaluronic acid, without needing to constantly reapply. And I love that I can also use the same tube on dry hands, cuticles and other rough patches. It’s definitely not the prettiest lip product in my collection, and the texture is much more ointment-like than a traditional balm, but when it comes to rescuing dry lips, it delivers.

8. By Terry Baume de Rose Lip Balm

9. Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Gloss Balm

I’m now 37, and getting older is undoubtedly a factor in how dry my lips can be. As collagen production naturally drops, my lips are looking less smooth and don’t have quite the same fullness that they once did. This gloss balm from Paula’s Choice is great for days when I need more than just hydration. It’s more of a treatment than a traditional lip balm, combining three tri-peptides with shea butter to hydrate whilst supporting collagen production and smoothing out the appearance of fine lines and dry patches. It’s a great option if you’re noticing fine lines or changing texture around your lips and want something that feels like skincare rather than just a balm.

How We Tested

I have used lip balm every day for the best part of two decades, so I have included some long-term favourites as well as testing some new lip balms for dry lips for this piece. Plus, I sought out balms containing the ingredients that Hall recommended too. The balms that have made the cut offer deep hydration, moisture without stickiness, and look and feel good on the lips too.

And if you’re worried that your lips will become dependent on balm if you wear it every day, then fear not—it turns out that this is a beauty myth. “Your lips don’t become physically dependent on lip balm or lose their ability to moisturise themselves because you’re using one regularly. What can happen is that you become used to the feeling of having balm on your lips, so you notice dryness more when it’s not there,” says Hall.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

September is the ultimate in-between month in both fashion and beauty—not quite summer and not yet autumn—which can make choosing a transitional nail colour tricky. Fortunately, this year’s September nail trends offer plenty of middle ground. “September is always an interesting month for nails because we’re transitioning from summer into autumn, so clients tend to want colours that feel richer without going completely dark,” says nail artist Ashleigh Bamber. “I think we’re going to see a lot of glossy finishes and saturated shades that still have a bit of brightness to them.”

And she isn’t wrong. From gemstone-inspired jewel tones and deep, almost-black cherry to unexpected pops of sunny yellow and juicy peach, this month’s standout shades are anything but one-note. “There’s definitely a move towards colours that feel really unique and intentional,” Bamber says. “Whether that’s a rich chocolate brown or a bold yellow, people are being a little more adventurous with colour whilst still keeping the overall manicure polished.” Below, I’ve rounded up the six September nail colours that I predict will be everywhere this month.

1. Jewel Tones

Think emerald green, sapphire blue, amethyst purple and rich ruby red—colours that feel saturated and expensive without automatically reading as festive. “Jewel tones are such a great way to add depth to your manicure,” says Bamber. “They feel bold, but because they’re inspired by colours you’d naturally see in nature, they still look really sophisticated.” Keep things simple with one shade across every nail, or lean into the trend with a subtle magnetic or high-shine finish to really bring out the dimension.

2. Deep Cherry

A classic red manicure will never go out of style, but September is the ideal time to take things a little darker. Deep cherry sits somewhere between a true red and a rich burgundy, making it a particularly good option if you’re not quite ready to go full wine or oxblood. “I love deep cherry because it can look almost black in some lights and then reveals that beautiful red tone,” says Bamber. The key is to keep the finish incredibly glossy, which gives the shade that almost lacquered, glass-like effect. Wear it on short, neat nails for something timeless, or on an almond shape for a slightly more dramatic look.

3. Sunny Yellow

Yellow may not be the first colour that comes to mind when you think of September, but I think it’s the perfect nod to the end of summer. Rather than the softer butter and pastel shades that dominated earlier in the year, think brighter, sunnier yellows that feel like one last hit of warm-weather optimism. “September doesn’t have to mean putting away every bright colour you own,” says Bamber. “A sunny yellow can look so good at this time of year, especially when paired with a really glossy finish.” If a full yellow manicure feels like a little too much, try it as a French tip or incorporate it into a simple nail-art design.

4. Juicy Peach

Warmer than a traditional nude but softer than a bright orange, peach strikes exactly the right balance for this sometimes awkward in-between season. “Peach is one of those shades that can look really fresh and healthy on the nails,” says Bamber. “I think the key is choosing a slightly warmer, juicier tone rather than anything too pastel.” A sheer, glossy peach is particularly chic if you’re after a low-maintenance manicure, while a more opaque version offers a subtle but still playful alternative to your usual neutral.

5. Chocolate Brown

Chocolate brown has already proved itself to be one of 2026’s biggest nail colours, and I don’t see that changing any time soon—in fact, I think it’s perfect for autumn. And, as an added bonus, it works beautifully across every nail length and shape. “Chocolate brown is such an easy colour to wear because it still acts almost like a neutral,” says Bamber. “It looks great on its own, but you can also use it for French tips or pair it with a sheer base.” My preferred way to wear it? Short, rounded nails and an ultra-glossy top coat.

6. Khaki Green

If bright summer greens feel a little too playful for September but you’re not quite ready for a deep forest shade, khaki is the answer. Earthy, muted, and surprisingly versatile, it brings something a little different to the usual rotation of reds, browns and berry tones. “Khaki green is a really nice transitional shade because it has that earthy autumn feel without being too dark,” says Bamber. “It also looks amazing with a shimmer finish, which keeps it feeling modern.”

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

When you’re afflicted with trend whiplash, there is always safety in falling back on timeless autumn fashion trends. These are the pieces that—regardless of what’s all over your social feeds—will complete your autumn capsule wardrobe and make you feel put-together and ready for the season. Though many pieces could warrant the classification of “timeless”, I’ve curated a succinct list of six that feel incredibly pertinent to autumn dressing.

To transcend the label of trend and truly wedge themselves into the hard-earned title of timeless, I’ve set three standards. Pieces must be versatile, seasonal, and rewearable. This means that they work in a large number of cold-weather outfits but can adapt to your own style changes over time. They should also sit at a level of quality that allows them to be reworn over and over. Some items out there hit one or two, but the following pieces easily pass with all three in hand.

In autumn, jackets and knitwear are often top of mind. Leather jackets and Fair Isle jumpers have proven their inclusion simply by how long they’ve been around and how consistently they’ve captured the attention of fashion tastemakers. Accessories-wise, gathered loafers and suede bags are unsurprising additions to the list. You’ll also find dark-wash denim and button-down shirts. Together, they paint the foundations of a timeless autumn wardrobe.

From jackets and trousers to shoes and bags, here are six timeless autumn fashion trends you can rely on for the foreseeable future.

6 Timeless Autumn Fashion Trends to Wear in 2026

1. Suede Bags

Style Notes: One of the defining materials of autumn is leather and its many forms—including the soft and velvety suede. It is patent leather’s gentler counterpart, which feels right at home in a wardrobe full of cosy textures, from wool jumpers to well-worn denim. One of the best ways of working this in, and one of the most timeless, is a suede bag. Even the most structured silhouettes add softness to an edgy leather jacket or complement the flow and movement of a jewel-toned maxi dress. Every single year as autumn rolls around, you’ll find yourself reaching for it once more.

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2. Leather Jackets

Style Notes: As an avid collector of outerwear, I’ve found that investing in a quality leather jacket is one of the best decisions you can make. Leather jackets are ideal for autumn, as they provide just enough warmth without feeling like a winter coat. Not only that, but they’re somewhat of an enigma and full of delightful contrasts. They’re structured but have just enough slouch. They look good with a more casual autumn shirt-and-jeans outfit, but also elevate your more sophisticated looks featuring wool trousers and silk slip skirts. In essence, they’re the jacket you’ll always reach for, whether in a hurry or slowly piecing together an outfit that makes you feel a little bit cooler.

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3. Indigo Jeans

Style Notes: Dark denim devotees, please rise. I know jeans trends come and go, but the darkest blue pairs will never feel out of place in your capsule wardrobe. Though jeans feel casual in most respects, there is something inherently elegant and sleek about the indigo shade. A pair looks equally as wonderful with a crisp button-down as it does with a white T-shirt or soft cashmere knit. They’re also the most luxurious-looking choice for double-denim outfits or for wearing beneath a leather jacket.

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4. Fair Isle Sweaters

Style Notes: You’re not short on choices for knitwear when it comes to autumn, but if it’s timeless you’re after, it’s hard to overlook Fair Isle knits. Despite being the most remote inhabited island in the UK, Fair Isle developed one of the most recognisable patterns that hasn’t lost its charm in centuries. The diamond shapes and patterns characteristic of these jumpers help bring any outfit to life with more colour and texture. Wear yours with jeans, leather skirts or over top of long dresses.

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5. Button-Down Shirts

Style Notes: Not every garment earns icon status, nor the title of eternally timeless, but the two that always spring to mind are little black dresses and button-down shirts. The latter is a year-round favourite that consistently delivers and transforms itself into what we need, whether that’s a linen swimsuit cover-up in the summer or a staple shirt in the autumn. Despite it being a classic, over the years, it has expanded into a much larger pool of options, from shirts with side ties and belts to unique darting and pockets. When you’re putting together a transitional wardrobe, this piece is foundational.

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6. Gathered Loafers

Style Notes: Saint Laurent’s Le Loafer is a fashion person staple, and this style of gathered loafer will never lead you astray. Like boots, loafers are emblematic of autumn, and there are so many designer loafers and high-street styles to choose from. For a timeless autumn uniform, loafers with dark jeans and a wool or leather jacket is the formula for feeling put-together in moments. For days in the office, add a button-down and tailored trousers.

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We’re at that point in the year when many of us are refining our capsule wardrobes, and personally, I’m pretty proud of mine. Over the years, I’ve hand-selected pieces to serve as the foundation of my elegant wardrobe, putting each addition through a series of tests before it officially claims its spot. Now, my line-up is almost complete, and if you took a peek at my collection, you’d notice that the majority of my staples come from Reformation. And if you’re wondering which Reformation staples are worth it, these are the tried-and-tested pieces I swear by.

Bringing together classic designs, trending details and high-quality fabrics, Reformation is able to balance timeless and trending in equal measure. Think the application of a modern neckline to a timeless knit, or a loose silhouette to staple trousers, and Reformation knows that a small adjustment can make a big impact. Whilst the brand is known for the beautiful dresses consistently spotted throughout the warmer months and at every wedding we attend, Reformation excels in every single category. Trust me, I’ve tried it all.

Throughout the year, jeans are always a feature of my capsule wardrobe, and Reformation’s lineup has seriously impressed me. For loose styles, look to the Cary, or if you prefer a straighter fit, you’ll want to consider the beloved Cynthia jeans, which also come in petite lengths if you’re on the shorter side like me. Whilst the jeans-and-a-nice-top duo is renowned, finding that nice top can often feel like the tricky part, but Reformation’s styles always look the part. The Dusk Knit, a simple tank with a sleek high neckline, is a frequent part of my workwear and weekend outfits, and the Avery Knit Top is my go-to for evening.

Of course, I have to mention the Mason Pants, a staple in so many editors’ and fashion people’s wardrobes. The cut, the fit and the feel of the fabric have cemented these as my favourite tailored trousers, and they also come in shorter lengths (at 5’2″, I opt for the petite version). Whilst I’d never wish away the summer sun, I am quietly excited to pull out my soft Reformation knits, from the reliable Clara cardigan to the sumptuous Cove jumper; both have seen me through the past few winters with ease. They’re the kind of investment piece that you find yourself reaching for every crisp winter morning, and suddenly can’t remember what you wore before.

Alongside, there are a few accessories that can hold their own against moving trends. The Blaine ballet flats joined my wardrobe at the start of summer, and have been the comfortable and chic companion to my dresses, tailored shorts and loose denim all season long. Together, these pieces make up a refined capsule wardrobe, though just one can bring an instant hit of timeless polish to your outfit builds. Scroll on to explore the best Reformation capsule wardrobe staples from an editor who personally tested them.

Shop the Worthwhile Reformation Capsule Staples for 2026

Shop More Timeless Reformation Buys

It’s no secret that the perfect accessories take your favorite looks to the next level. As a shopping editor and self-proclaimed accessories lover, I’m in a uniquely great position to recommend a handful of gorgeous shoes and accessories buys that I’ve stumbled upon recently. I’ve curated a short list of some new accessory arrivals that I’m loving at the moment.

Yes, you can find your new favorite piece to be the cherry on top of your next outfit. In the mix, you can find a range of on-trend shoes, jewelry, handbags, and more. Keep scrolling to uncover your new favorite shoes and accessory finds today.

Shop Editor-Approved Shoe and Accessories Picks