Very has launched its 2024 autumn range with everything you need to update your wardrobe for the new season. I tried out some of its new-in pieces, and there are 8 that stood out
When it comes to fashion, autumn is my absolute favourite season of all. Give me all the oversized knitwear and chunky boots and textures like leather, suede and faux fur. Something about autumn outfits always feels luxurious and chic, which is why I was thrilled to get a sneak peek at Very’s latest autumn collection.
The retailer is known for its amazing collabs and affordable pieces, so I decided to try out some of its latest launches to see which pieces I would be adding to my permanent autumnwear collection – and spoiler alert, there were eight pieces in particular that stood out. From trending textures like leather and suede to animal print galore, these are my top recommendations to shop from the new line.
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Make a statement
The new autumn range has plenty of pieces for casual daytime and more glam evening looks, although personally I feel like a lot of the items I tried could be worn for either depending on how you styled them. One thing I couldn’t wait to try was Very’s Zebra Print Wrap Coat, £80, which is the perfect statement piece for adding a little something extra to even the most basic ‘fits.
I took my usual size, although to be honest I could have got away with a size down and still fitted a chunky knit underneath, or even two sizes down if I wanted a more cinched, fitted look. However it instantly just made my very simple outfit look expensive and chic, and it was so warm and cosy I could tell it’ll immediately be in heavy rotation this autumn and winter. Although you can fasten it up and tie the belt for more shape, I actually loved it left open and relaxed – it was giving a rich mysterious aunty vibe, and I’m here for it.
Daytime essentials
I styled the coat with another two pieces from Very’s range that I can already tell will be getting plenty of wear; the PU High Waisted Legging, £20, and the Schuh Lorella Pointed Flat Shoes, £38. The leggings are a new staple in all of my seasonal outfits, with the super-stretchy faux leather being not only comfortable but also flattering and shaping too. The wide high waist band helped smooth my shape, and although they were stretchy they had a thick, high quality to them that made them feel way more expensive.
As for the Lorella pointed flats from Schuh, they’re a great affordable option if you’ve been coveting Ganni’s £325 Buckled Ballerinas. They have a similar patent finish and silver hardware details, and you can get them in either black or red – and I will definitely be snapping up the red version too ASAP! They were comfy, true to size, and look stylish and trendy without trying too hard – definitely a winner.
Other pieces that will be making their way into my daily rotation include the Funnel Neck Longline Oversized Jumper, £25, which is super soft and snuggly and surprisingly lightweight and fine knit, making it great for transitional weather or for wearing when you know you’ll constantly be bobbing between the cold outside and indoor heating. I teamed it with Mango’s Alison Turn Up Jeans, £46, which are a trending style of the season, and at 5ft 4” I found I could just get away with the length on me when wearing flats. The stiff, non-stretch denim is amazing at sculpting your figure, and they felt very expensive and cool – the ultimate autumn combo.
Party pieces
No autumn wardrobe is complete without a party dress or two, and although I love getting dressed up I prefer to find pieces that can be styled for both eveningwear and during the daytime too. I’m a firm believer that leopard print is a neutral and that everyone should have at least one leopard print item in their wardrobe, which is why I had to snap up Very’s Cowl Leopard Print Maxi Dress, £32.
As I’ve mentioned I’m on the petite side, so to stop it dragging on the ground I need to wear a slightly platform sole or heel, however the cut and shape of this dress is a dream. It has just the right amount of stretch to hug your curves and the cowl neckline is universally flattering. It’s worth mentioning, though, that the straps are made from the same mesh material as the outer layer, so if you have a larger bust you might need a little extra support underneath.
I also tried the black Lace Trim Satin Cami Maxi Dress, £45, which was another piece that felt more luxurious than its affordable price tag. It’s cut on the bias, which means it accentuates your figure, and the lace details give it a high-end look. I did find the chest gaped a little on my smaller bust, but nothing some well-placed tape can’t solve!
Finally, the Suede Look Belted Mini Dress, £32, is a prime example of how a simple piece can be styled in numerous ways. It’s soft and has some stretch, with a flattering fit and flare silhouette. You can just as easily wear it with some chunky knee high boots as you can with a pair of kitten heels and sparkly tights, making it a versatile investment for autumn.
Elsewhere, N ext has also launched its autumn range which includes essentials like snuggly knits, party dresses and trench coats to top up your chic autumn wardrobe.