It’s nearly autumn and many of us are casting critical eyes at our wardrobes. We need advice on what to wear to work, to parties, and to long business lunches now that the recession’s nearly over. We want to appear businesslike with just a touch of fashion-forwardness. Or fashion-forward with just a touch of business.

Grey is the new neutral colour

It’s been a bona fide neutral colour since AD 700 but it’s only recently that we’ve seen an influx of grey. Grey pants, grey gloves, grey skirts, and grey jackets. We’re loving grey because the colour needs less dye than stronger colours such as black. This means that grey fabrics are softer to the touch than the same items in black.

Bag on it

You needn’t wear an IT bag to receive knowing looks of appreciation from your fellow tube commuters. Wear a bag that is as much an extension of your personality as it is fresh and vibrant yet classic. Find your perfect bag at your favourite consignment store or trawl online for inspiration. Bags with a slight vintage look, such as the Suzy Smith Quilted Cross Body Bag are perfect for autumn.

Kilts

Kilts can be cute on some, and ferocious on others. Yes, it is true that a kilt is a traditionally male item but some women are turning this notion on its head with their insistence on wearing something that would fit right into any 'old boys' club'.

Wear the kilt with a tight-fitting top and modern high heels.

The 1950s are back

Blame Mad Men for this. The women dress modestly and yet they exude personality and class. This might not be true for much longer – the series is approaching the mid-1960s – but it’s such fun while it lasts. Dress like a Mad Woman by incorporating cigar pants a la Grace Kelly into your wardrobe.  

Wide-leg trousers

Wide-leg trousers conceal a world of figure flaws. They are also very much en vogue this season and let’s hope they remain a staple of the well-adjusted wardrobe. They are the perfect foil for the jeans we all love to hate – skinny jeans: they add a measure of class and dignity to nearly any outfit. Pair them with fitted knits in contrasting colours and textures. Or wear with floaty tops but add a belt to emphasise the waist area. Michèle Classics from Gray and Osbourn does a fabulous wide-legged trouser that places the emphasis on comfort.

Brace yourself

Another 'slow-burning trend' is braces. Many women relish stealing things from the 'boys' and this autumn winner is yet another example of our infatuation with masculine clothing. It’s possible to find women’s wear that has braces but it’s so more thrilling to add your own braces to your trousers. Experiment with braces in bold colours.

Author bio:

Gray and Osbourn wrote this article about the trends that will make this autumn special.