Ille De Cocos: The Journal

Autumn's Must Haves

With fashion month in full swing and chillier days looming, we caught up with Personal Stylist and IDC style muse Tessa Frost for her Autumn top 6 wardrobe picks....

I am at my happiest in the height of summer - pool side, 40 degree heat, in my sarong, accessorised up to the hilt. So when Autumn hits, I tend to have a week or so of reluctant acclimatisation where I hang on to my white denim, pile on the fake tan and try to maintain that holiday feeling.

The main thing that gets me through the autumn blues is the prospect of choosing some fabulous new season pieces, while rediscovering some of my favourite wardrobe staples which see me through year on year. I like to invest in certain pieces for autumn/winter which are timeless and will wear well – Paige black skinny denim, gold studded ankle boots from & Other Stories, alpaca and leather coat from Gerard Darel, ASH star trainers, leather navy trousers from Baukjen and my go-to fringed Stine Goya cocktail dress which seems to work for any occasion. And of course, my collection of wool and cashmere which I wear non-stop and therefore does need updating each year.

My must-haves for this autumn are a combination of beautiful, luxury staples, alongside one of a kind, wardrobe statements which quite simply make me happy to look at and excited to embrace the cooler months.

Tessa Frost x IDC

01.

THE SWEATER UPDATE

An autumn wardrobe staple – beautiful quality merino wool, this fitted sweater is perfect tucked in with a high waisted skirt or trousers, or layered for a more relaxed look with denim. The frill and subtle red detail give it a fun and feminine twist, while keeping it still understated and versatile. Merino Ruffle Trim Sweater by Ille De Cocos, available to pre-order here. 

02.

THE MIDI SKIRT

 This fabulous midi skirt combines several of this season’s key trends – colour blocking and pleats. It is such a unique investment piece with the bold colour combination and leather trim waist band. It is super versatile, gorgeous with a sweater in a neutral shade and boots. Or dress it up with a fitted top, heels and a clutch for evening. Colour block pleated skirt by Givenchy, via netaporter.com

03.

THE ANKLE BOOTS

These ankle boots have been on my wish list for a while. A classic Isabel Marant style, they will complement any autumn look. Beautiful soft suede and with a gentle pointed toe and small heel, they look fabulous with skirts, dresses and trousers. When investing in boots I always look for a design that is stylish, classic and practical and these tick all the boxes. Suede ankle boots via isabelmarant.com.

04.

THE LEATHER JACKET

A leather jacket is another key piece for this time of year – ideal for layering, it updates any look, giving it an understated, urban yet luxury vibe. This Elizabeth and James leather bomber is such a cool, classic - I am permanently on the look-out for styles that will combine well with both skirts and trousers and the simplicity and clean lines of this gorgeous, collarless bomber means it’s a beautifully versatile option. Leather Jacket by Elizabeth and James via netaporter.com.

05.

THE STATEMENT EARRINGS

I love a big statement earring and these do not disappoint! In blush these gorgeous cloud earrings are still bold without being over the top in this warm, neutral autumn shade. They come in beautiful mother of pearl too (very this season) but as they are made from hand painted wood, they are incredibly light weight. Cloud earrings via wolfandmoon.com. 

06.

THE STRUCTURED TOTE

In “Dusty rose”, this crushed velvet tote is such a gorgeous, playful addition to any wardrobe. Velvet is back in and it’s a beautiful and soft alternative to leather or suede when it comes to accessories. This structured bag works with a skirt and boots, carried in the hand or as a cross-body with denim for a more casual look. Velvet tote by Staud via netaporter.com.

Fig and Frost Autumn 2018

Tessa runs a bespoke personal styling consultancy based in London. Tessa's mission is to revolutionise your approach to dressing and to inspire you to look amazing and feel confident everyday. For more information, visit figandfrost.co.uk.

Leave a comment