Cool autumn

We’ve had months of breezing through long, hot days in little more than light summer dresses and Havianas.

The onset of a new season, heralds the need for a sharper, more refined look as more temperate weather takes hold.

Autumn runways have been full of a feminine 70s-style aesthetic mixed with hints of military, floral, masculine suiting and sporty chic, according to some of our leading style experts. Today they reveal great ways to refresh your look for the cooler months without mortgaging the house.

Stylists and boutique owners Rebecca Davis and Julie Stanley say the vibe for autumn dressing this year is “casual”. The off-duty sporty look remains strong.

“Perth is a casual city but it also has its own sense of style and I think that dressed-down look very much reflects our laid-back attitude, ” Ms Davis says.

“The sneaker trend is everywhere again this season, paired not only with your casual pants and off-duty sports gear but with midi skirts, dresses and suits for a chic, modern look.”

Leading Perth stylist and wardrobe consultant Jo Shields says although Perth definitely embraces a casual vibe it doesn’t have to come at the expense of style.

“On warmer days a classic shirt is a great substitute for a jacket and looks great layered over a dress or a T-shirt, ” Ms Shields says. “Denim shirts are huge this season and are available everywhere at a range of price points.”

She says lace-up brogues are also a strong look for the autumn and winter season and offer a stylish and comfortable alternative to the high-summer sandal.

Leather is set to be another strong look as temperatures drop and will again be dominant on the bottom in skirts and pants, dressed down with flats during the day and with heels for a touch of classic glamour, according to our experts.

The midi skirt and the soft three-quarter-length trench are two of the strongest looks this season Ms Stanley says.

“The fuller, more forgiving shapes are a perfect and modern look for bigger women and can be worn stylishly by women of all ages and sizes, ” she says.