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As I type, we’re entering the second week of March, and the weather feels like it’s finally transitioning to Autumn, which is reflected by all the coats, knits and boots that have hit the stores downtown Down Under.
As much as I’d like to wear a turtleneck knit and jeans every day, unfortunately it doesn’t cut it in a conservative work environment like a law firm (…or a government agency where I’m currently seconded). Autumn outfits require a bit of additional planning – how many layers to wear, coat or no coat, bare legs? I’ve been taking stock of my workwear to consider any potential gaps in my wardrobe that need to be filled.
Keep scrolling to see my five Autumn workwear essentials that you should have in your wardrobe.
#1 – Double-breasted blazer

The weather in Sydney is fortunately quite mild. For days when I don’t need to wear a coat, a long-line jacket like this one I’m wearing is enough to keep the chill out. I typically gravitate towards darker hues during the colder months but I’m making a conscious effort this year to wear lighter neutrals throughout the whole year (…the Labor Day moratorium on white clothing doesn’t really apply here in Australia. But tell me – is it still a fashion crime in America?!)
I’ve been loving this Reiss jacket. It’s such a flattering colour and after a quick trip to the tailor to take the sleeves up, the jacket now looks like it was made for me.
SHOP NEUTRAL JACKETS
#2 – Knit dress

Now I’m sure this addition to my list would come as no surprise! To date, this dress has been my favourite piece that I’ve added to my wardrobe this year. An effortless way to look chic for work during the cooler months.
SHOP OFF SHOULDER KNIT DRESSES OVER $200
SHOP OFF SHOULDER KNIT DRESSES UNDER $200
#3 – Suede pumps

A pair of pumps just screams Autumn workwear essential! Personally, I wear suede pumps all year round – I love how the fabric is a bit softer and provides me with a bit more comfort. For work, I opt for mid-heels or mules so I can wear them all day long.
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#4 – Statement coat

For a non-bright-colour-wearing person, you can imagine that I have strong feelings on any colourful trend. That said, I actually wore a lot of vibrant colours in my 20s – bright pinks and greens. But one colour I never thought I’d come to wear? Orange.
But then, 2018 happened and we started seeing more of the colour on the runway… and it started to grow on me. And now that we’re well into 2020, it’s clear that orange is here to stay and I’ve jumped on the bandwagon.
This coat is a muted version of the bright orange hues that we’ve been seeing around (and pairs so well with navy, white and grey). It’s well worth trying if you too are ready to come over to the not-so-dark side.
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#5 – Ankle boots

You can’t deny the power of black ankle boots. They are so classic and versatile and I live in them during the colder months. I always look for block heels to give me that additional height and comfort to wear all day. I’ve worn this pair I’ve featured solidly for the last two A/W seasons and they’re showing little signs of wear. They’re a staple for my Casual Friday outfits and one of my top Autumn workwear essentials.
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As always, thanks for stopping by!
P.S. Check out my Autumn workwear wishlist and the labels to shop in your 30s.