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Six ways to update your wardrobe for autumn on a budget

Sian Bradley Kettlemag
Written by sianabigail

Lazy summer days are coming to an end, September's here and what better way to welcome the new season than with some wardrobe updates. At this time of year my clothes start to feel a bit stale and I dream about an entire new look. Yet you don't need a big budget to freshen up your look for the autumn months, just follow this simple style guide to update your current looks with a minimal price tag attached. 

Patch perfect  

Embroidery is everywhere at the moment, and patches have been sewn onto everything. This kitsch trend is a great way to add some personality to your clothes, but if money is bit tight, rather than investing in some new garments, get crafty and do it yourself. Find yourself a sweet iron or sew on patch from Ebay, Amazon or your local craft store and get to work- sew onto jeans, jackets, skirts and even bags. The effect will be an instant rework of your much loved denim, without empting your purse.

 Primark jeans, £17

 

Layer polo neck's under strappy dresses

Extend the life of your summer dresses by layering them over polo necks. This look is irresitably 90s and a favourite of the new season. Mix colours, fabrics and textures and try a pinafore out for a school girl chic look. 

 

#brandyusa Minnie Glitter Dress

A photo posted by Brandy Melville (@brandymelvilleusa) on

Same bag, new ways to wear

According to Vogue, it's a new season trend to wear your shoulder bag tightly across the body and tucked snug above the elbow- thanks to Proenza Schouler, Prada and Valentino. In other words, dig out your old bag and just wear it differently. Actually, Elle tell us that it's time to wear your bag in any way it's not supposed to. Across your waist, round your neck or wrist, the odd possibilites are endless- and sure to freshen up your look, even if it may draw a few strange looks. 

If you're due an update though, go bold. Patterns, tassles, jewels, pearls, patches, holographic material.. this season you want a bag that draws attention. 

 

Sandra and Emma carrying the new Hex and Hava bags backstage at Fall 2016 #proenzaschouler #hexbag #havabag

A photo posted by Proenza Schouler (@proenzaschouler) on

Trackies aren't just for the gym

Comfort is now cool. Sleeves are long and oversized. Sportwears and hoodies are in. So good news girls- it's time to raid your boyfriends wardrobe, and swap gym wear for street wear. 

If you're feeling up to it, invest in one gorgeous blouse with oversized sleeves to see you through the season.

 

This is #newin | shirt ref 7933/629 skirt ref 7907/636

A photo posted by ZARA Official (@zara) on

River Island, A/W 16

Raid your charity shop for some luxe accessories 

From bell sleeves, to statement fur, sequins, and even corsets, this Autumn its all about being able to transform yourself into a glam renassiance woman.  For easy stlyling, make yourself a choker from some dirt cheap material and ride the continuing gothic trend.  Velvet has been pinned as the fabric as the season, and you only need to invest in one chic piece to follow the trend.

House of Fraser A/W 16

Clash your clothes 

From Prada to Valentino, patterns and bright colours define fresh style in autumn 2016. For a really simply wardrobe update, just trying putting together outfits that seem outrageous, and experiment with pairing clashing colours. This is fun, free and totally fearless.

What do you think? What other ways would you suggest to upgrade your wardrobe on a budget? Have your say in the comments section below.