I've said this before, and I'll say it again: When it comes to determining which items from a new collection will or will not sell out, I'm the best person to consult. I'm not bragging—simply put, I have a long track record of predicting this sort of thing, and 99% of the time, I'm correct. So if you're on the fence about buying something and want to be sure if it's safe to sit on it for a while, if it's from H&M, Zara, or J.Crew and you see it on the list below, don't wait. You aren't safe, and before you know it, you'll have missed out on the item you're craving, possibly even for good.

If that's not the situation you find yourself in, but you still want to score some future sell-out items before the masses find them and you have to fight off all of TikTok to score them, the forthcoming list might also be helpful for you. It's useful in many ways—why else would I have spent hours putting it together? Without further ado, scroll down to shop 36 new arrivals from Zara, H&M, and J.Crew that you'll be lucky to find in one month's time. Honestly, they could all very well be out of stock by then.

H&M

Zara

J.Crew

The Row's Margaux bag—whether in suede, smooth, or pebbled leather—is one of the most sought-after handbags in all of fashion, only really coming second to Hermès in demand. Everybody wants one, and if they're saying they don't, they're lying. Unfortunately, like an Hermès Kelly or Birkin bag, Margaux bags aren't that easy to come by, and if you do find yourself face-to-face with one that's up for sale, you'll have to pay top dollar for it.

There is one way around the price and availability factors. If it's the shape and style of the Margaux that you love and not necessarily the status that owning one brings you, I found the perfect solution. This week, H&M dropped a top-handle shopper in black that has the same look as the Margaux but costs just $55. Somehow, it hasn't sold out yet.

The tote, which measures at 15 inches by 11 inches by 7.5 inches, features the same dual side buckles, metal studs at its base, and long top handles as the Margaux. These three qualities are what make The Row's best-selling bag so practical and smart. It also has subtle gold hardware and a smooth leather-like exterior. Essentially, it's the best affordable The Row alt on the market right now. Trust me—I've looked at a lot of them.

Scroll down to shop the $55 shopper before it sells out, which it probably will very soon.

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As much as I've tried to hold on to that summer feeling, as October rolls in, I'm finally succumbing to autumn. The new season is here, and my linen pieces just won't cut it anymore, so it's time to face the fact that the cooler days have settled in for the foreseeable future. I've always held summer close as my favourite season, embracing the ease of dressing and warm sunshine until the very last moment, but I have to admit that the stellar offerings of the autumn/winter 2024 collections have me seriously reconsidering.

Whether high-end or high street, brands have gone all out for the new season. Coats are some of the best they've ever been, knitwear feels even more cosy and stylish and the footwear on offer is destined to feature in our wardrobes for many years. Colder temperatures, punctuated by quick blasts of sunshine and sudden rain, will soon be keeping us on our toes, but one thing is for sure: no matter the weather, there's a chance to look incredibly stylish this season. As part of this, our Great Try-On series, my fellow editors have explored expensive-looking classics at Arket, honed in on COS' contemporary buys, celebrated & Other Stories chic finds and compiled a list of Zara's most compliment-inducing items, I headed to the store I turn to the most, H&M.

If affordable buys with a high-end feel are your thing, you'll want to keep scrolling. For autumn 2024, H&M is once again offering an array of highly chic, easy-to-covet styles ready to jump straight into your wardrobe rotations. The brand has tapped into some of the coolest rising trends for the new season, but looking ahead, I'm firmly focused on timeless buys, and H&M has definitely come through.

A classic coat that will see me through the cooler months, a cosy knit for layering up as the chill settles in, a standout dress that needs minimal styling and a "nice top" to pair with not only my jeans but tailoring and skirts too—the key finds from my shopping trip cover every eventuality. Be it a day in the office, dinner with friends, a cocktail date or a stroll in the park, H&M's new collection has cold-weather dressing covered.

Scroll on to see my favourite pieces from my H&M autumn 2024 try-on, shop the full looks and find more H&M buys that have made it onto my wish list.

See My Favourite Pieces From My H&M Autumn 2024 Try-On

Style Notes: When searching for new additions to my autumn wardrobe, I knew I had to start with a trench coat. Lightweight, ready to take on the swift changes in weather and easy to layer up when cooler moments set in, there's a reason why this coat is a classic. Whilst camel shades are most synonymous with the style, the trench is such a day-to-night hero that I was looking for a versatile black iteration, and H&M came through.

Made from a soft twill fabric, H&M taps into the classic nature of the style with a double-breasted silhouette, easy tie belt and longline silhouette. A great trench coat is one of those few pieces able to support just about any look, be it a sleek work outfit or layered over an elegant dress for the evening. When styling for my try-on, I went simple to tie in with my style, putting it over a simple top, straight-leg jeans and some striking buckle boots to ground the look.

I took my normal size small in the trench, which still had room for a cosy knit underneath. The best-selling Slim Straight High Ankle Jeans fit perfectly in a size 10 and, I took the boots in my usual size.

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Style Notes: If anything had me excited for autumn this year, it was the predicted return of boho styles thanks to Chloé's revival of the aesthetic on in its A/W 24 collection. As hoped, flowing blouses and dresses in light, sheer fabrics have returned in a big way for the new season, and H&M has been serving up stunning boho dresses since August.

Featuring a very autumnal deep burgundy shade, long ties to add to the fluidity of the piece and subtle stud detailing for an extra touch of intricacy, this romantic H&M dress ticks all the boxes. The top section is slightly sheer whilst the double-lined skirt offers more opacity. I tried my regular size small. The dress is certainly striking, so I stuck to understated accessories to complete the look. First, I turned to a pair of reliable ankle boots with a thick heel, which fit true to size. With a smooth leather look and pointed-toe finish, I know these sleek boots will complete all kinds of outfits, including jeans, tailoring and skirts. Finally, I reached for this super-expensive-looking bag which is practical in size yet impossibly chic in design.

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Style Notes: When it comes to autumn dressing, knitwear is of course a key category, and H&M is offering up some seriously elegant (and warm) options. I was drawn in by a bold green jumper and a contemporary wrap cardigan, but as a minimalist, I settled on a soft cream style with thin black stripes and a cosy turtleneck.

Stripes are one of the only patterns that brings an element of design detail without completely stealing the show, making them truly timeless in appeal. What I love most about this jumper is the thin dimensions that feel even more considered and interesting than thicker stripes. One of the easiest ways to feel put-together, even when you have little time to get dressed, is to rely on classic colour combinations; and cream and black is a duo that always feels considered, especially in a refined knit and sharply tailored trousers. The pairing feels highly premium, no matter the price point.

As a year-round favourite, I'm happy to invest a little more in a really good pair of tailored trousers, and with sharp pleats and perfectly placed darts, this pair is definitely worth the price. For the knit, I tried a size medium just to add a slight modern edge with an oversized silhouette, and the tailored trousers fit perfectly in my usual size. Taking the slouchy knitwear and crisp tailoring, I completed the look with a pair of loafers—yet another timeless autumn favourite.

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Style Notes: We all know the reliability of a jeans-and-a-nice-top combination, but finding the "nice top" can be harder than you'd think. Lucky for us, H&M has an array of nicer-than-nice styles, tapping into that boho aesthetic that now revived, is destined to stick around for a long time. Whilst the silhouette of the top is such a standout, the black shade offers ease of styling alongside the romantic sheer detailing. The high neckline brings elegance with ruffled front details, flowing sleeves and a tie back that can be draped behind or to the front as you wish. Think drinks or a fancy dinner—this is the kind of easy yet striking top you'll want to reach for.

To dress it up for evening, I turned to the Wide Jeans, a best-selling pair for H&M. The style comes in a range of washes, but the true blue shade feels most wearable in my wardrobe, whether styled for evening or night. To elevate the look further, I chose the boots I wore above, with a pointed toe that can peek out in a very chic way from the wide hems. For the jeans, I took my usual size 10, and once again the boots fit true to size.

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Shop More H&M Pieces We're Loving:

If you've visited our site in the past week, you may have noticed that we are in the midst of our annual Great Try-On. For autumn 2024, our editors are hitting the high street to scope out the most expensive-looking buys for the new season, all delivered with guidance on fit, fabric and wearability. Already we've showcased wardrobe classics from Arket, turned to COS for autumn heroes, explored Zara's expensive-looking gems and cosied up in & Other Stories' new-in finds. Tomorrow, we'll be exploring the best of H&M's autumn collections, so make sure you check back for that, as it really is an excellent edit. And Megan was scouring the shop floor of H&M when she stumbled across a very chic tote bag—one that boasts a designer look and a practical shape.

One of the most coveted totes right now is The Row's Margaux, and whilst I will always advocate for investing in the original if it's within your means, H&M's option allows those of us who can't afford the original (it's not cheap) to tap into The Row's high-luxury aesthetic. As somewhat of an expert in all things high street, I knew this would move quickly, so I came straight here to share it with you.

Over the past few years, designers have turned their focus from the fantastical to the wearable, highlighting the most useful pieces in our wardrobes, and this has extended to accessories. Think of the return of the ballet flat—not only undeniably chic but also a comfortable alternative to heels. In handbags, the same celebration of practicality has arisen, where once impractical micro-mini bags were the go-to companion, then came the return of the tote. And H&M's is seriously chic and seriously affordable.

Featuring smooth lines, an understated black colourway and plenty of room for your daily essentials and a little more, this £43 bag is going to move quickly. Whether carried as a tote, slung over your shoulder or very fashionably tucked under the arm like Megan did (pictured above), this is a bag you'll reach for on repeat. The metal studs underneath protect the base from wear, whilst the adjustable straps on either side allow you to customise the opening depending on how full you've packed your shopper.

Ready to see the bag in question and shop more expensive-looking high-street bags? Scroll on!

SHOP THE DESIGNER-PASSING H&M SHOPPER:

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Autumn has arrived, and with it, a new style moment. As the sharpest shift from one season to another, the break between summer and autumn can feel like a quick rush to pack up the linens that kept us cool over the warmer months, and steadfastly return our trusted knits, denim and outerwear to pride of place. Like many, I found myself rejigging my wardrobe for October, and in doing so, soon found there were clear gaps where mild-weather heroes should be. As the colder days have set in and will stick around until spring breaks into sunshine, now is prime time to make clever additions to my hard-working autumn wardrobe.

When it comes to making space for new buys in my wardrobe, I often look to investment pieces, but with so many strong collections on the high street, this is always my first port of call. As ever, when I part with my hard-earned cash, every piece has to meet my high standards of being easy to style, timeless in design and expensive-looking no matter the price point. So naturally, I headed to Zara.

Shopping at Zara, whether online or in-store, is always something I look forward to. For many, it can feel overwhelming because of the sheer amount of new styles, but I find this means there are plenty of real gems to be found that will earn their keep in my wardrobe for years to come. I usually shop online for ease, but as you may know, I do a lot of in-store try-ons to give extra guidance to our readers. I've tested out new high-street coats, the very best jeans and trending footwear; and now I'm sharing my autumn Zara finds.

After a quick scan of the shop floor, I'd already honed in on four key pieces. The perfect forever coat, the easy co-ord, the layering piece with a twist and the standout shade. With my sights set on these items, four outfits quickly came to fruition as I moved around the store, piling pieces onto my sister's outstretched arms ready for the changing room. Even editors like to get a second opinion, and few are as honest as a sibling's.

Whilst a feathered piece or sky-high heel can instantly turn my head, in the spirit of adding only truly worthwhile pieces to my basket, wearability and versatility of styling were forefront of my mind. I put them with pieces that can be mixed and matched with the much-loved staples already in our wardrobes, like a great white button-down or trusty pair of knee-high boots—the items that consistently prove their worth in timeless appeal. But if you're yet to add these basics into your arsenal, I've linked them below, too.

For guidance, I'm 5'2" and tend to wear a size 8 or small in coats and jackets and a 10 or medium in bottoms. I've also included the sizes I've tried on, with advice on whether to size up or down depending on each style, just to make things even easier.

Keep scrolling to see the Zara autumn 2024 pieces I tried on, and read my honest thoughts.

See My Favourite Pieces From My Zara Autumn 2024 Try-On

Style Notes: Today, I finally turned my heating on, so it's time to declare that coats are back in business. Immediately, I was drawn to this understated coat with a minimalist appeal that I won't tire of. The shade is a soft camel, known for easily blending with most other colours and adding a premium edge with its refined nature. With a simple single-breasted design, flap-front pockets and crisp lapels, I instantly knew this was a piece I'd wear on repeat.

When considering how to style it, I went classic, relying on a white button-down, wide-leg jeans and easy boots to complete the look. The look is fuss-free, refined and elegant, ready to take on a variety of occasions from drinks with friends to a day in the office. The coat's wearability means it can finish a variety of looks, be it a tailored ensemble or a dressier evening look.

I took my usual size small and was impressed that it fitted perfectly without feeling restricted, as some structured coats can. At 5'2", it hit me just below the knee, which is the ideal length, in my opinion. The button-down is slightly oversized, so I opted for the size XS for a neater fit, which still felt roomy. Wide-leg jeans are one of my most worn items, and this pair has a chic dark wash. They come up slightly big though—I tried the 10 but would actually go for the size down. As you can see, the length is suited for much taller people, but any petite person knows that a dry cleaner can easily take care of that.

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Style Notes: Layering season is in full swing, and whilst there's an array of brilliant cardigans and jumpers around, I was looking for something special. I found it in this lightweight cardigan in a soft green shade with an intriguing scarf detail. I've long been a fan of adding a scarf to a simple T-shirt to bring a pop of colour, print or texture—something my mum has always embraced as a key part of her daily uniform. As we move into the cooler months, tie-neck details can be found on scarf coats or created by slinging a jumper over your shoulders, and now this detail can be embraced in knit form, integrated into cardigans and sweaters for a fun twist.

As this cardigan is a standout piece, the rest of my look takes a more understated approach. Naturally, tailored trousers were what I searched for, and as someone who wears trousers more than anything else, I hope you'll take it seriously when I say these are some of the best I've tried. The wide-leg silhouette is perfectly draped for that modern edge, whilst the sharp pleats boast tailoring expertise that would easily make you think they were designer, not to mention the false pocket with a button detail that further adds to the considered design.

Whilst the look could be dressed down with trainers or flats, I wanted to bring a touch of elegance to the wide silhouette of the trousers with a pointed-toe shoe peeking out underneath. I tried a size small in both the cardigan and the trousers, and it was just right.

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Style Notes: If there's one piece that deserves unlimited praise it has to be the co-ord; on days when you only have five minutes to get ready, a sleek two-piece will always be your saving grace. For autumn, I look to cosy knitted fabrics to take on the new-season chill in style, and this high-neck top and fluid skirt combination is one I'll turn to over and over again.

The brilliance of a co-ord is its versatility. Not only do the pieces have a perfectly matched companion, but they can be separated for various outfit options. The high-neck top can be styled with classic jeans, sleek tailoring, denim skirts and plenty more, whilst the skirt can rise to any occasion with a nice top or classic button-down. The soft fabric brings just enough warmth to shield you in the colder moments, and as I tend to run hot I like the idea of a sleeveless silhouette. However, if you prefer to cover your arms, a simple shirt can be layered in to complete the look. Both styles come in three colours: grey, cream and camel, all of which are incredibly expensive-looking.

Better still, the sizing is just right. Here I've taken the size small in both the top and skirt and elevated the look with a pair of refined kitten-heel boots. A true staple, a great pair of knee-high boots will see you through every autumn, winter and spring.

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Style Notes: For a long time I've been a dedicated minimalist, mostly turning to neutral shades as my daily uniform. But after the bright summer days, I'm hoping to hold onto the rejuvenating effects of bolder shades, especially through the greyer months. As we're well and truly into the days where outerwear is a must, I'm starting here when adding a new hue into the mix.

This bright red is a break away from my norm, so I'm turning to a timeless silhouette to keep it wearable and relevant in my wardrobe. Here, it's by way of a sweet structured jacket with a tweed-look fabric, with white and black thread running through the red. The sharp shape with padded shoulders, front pockets and vintage-style buttons brings a polished finish, even when paired with a simple T-shirt and jeans.

Straight-leg jeans are a must-have in any wardrobe, and the mid-wash of this pair brings a casual edge to balance the put-together feel of the jacket. Whilst the jeans appeared cuffed when on the hanger, it turns out they're simply turned up, not sewn, and as they came up short even me, I unrolled them for a puddle effect.

The sizes for the jacket were limited in-store, so I tried a medium, which by chance, fitted. The sleeves felt slightly restricting though, so I would have gone for a large if it had been available. For the jeans, I took my usual size 10 and liked that they weren't too fitted around the thigh. Finally, to sandwich the elegant top and relaxed jeans, I added a pair of cute bow-motif mules with a sharp pointed toe in my usual size 5.

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If there's one thing I can confidently say being a professional shopper has prepared me for, it's being able to dig up incredibly chic gems from the endless selection on Amazon. This is exactly why my friends and family always turn to me when they are looking for stylish, affordable picks from the popular site. With Amazon Prime Big Deal Days coming up on October 8 and 9, I took a fresh look and came up with an array of chic finds worth keeping an eye on that span across fashion, beauty, and home.

When it comes to the fashion department, I found a variety of standout pieces including elegant tops, elevated closet staples, and sleek shoes. As for beauty, I narrowed down some of my everyday essentials like effective sunscreens, glowy moisturizers, and a compliment-worthy fragrance. In terms of the home, I came up with a lovely selection of décor including coffee table books to designer-looking chairs, and other pretty details. Keep scrolling to shop 30 chic fashion, beauty, and décor picks ahead of Amazon Prime Big Deal Days.

Fashion

Beauty

Home Décor

When it comes to getting dressed this fall, simple elegance is my motto, and budget-friendly is my mindset. I'm leaning into outfits with minimalist, easy, and sleek silhouettes that look polished and ooze an air of wealth and sophistication, but won't break the bank. Think elevated basics, sleek silhouettes, and elegant-looking fabrics.
Since, I'm scouring retailers and brands daily as part of my job, I have found a whole host of separates, dresses, shoes, and more that embody simple elegance to a T. The best part is all these pieces come in at under $100. From sleek sling backs to trending chocolate brown knits, keep scrolling for the effortlessly elegant pieces to add to your wardrobe this season.

H&M's A/W 24 Studio Collection is a refined edit covering wardrobe heroes with an elevated twist. Whilst the brand's regular pieces make for brilliant staples and tick off our classic buys, this new edit brings contemporary detailing and playful elements, pushing each piece firmly into the new season. The classic trench coat has been revitalised with an asymmetric closure and bold collar, puffer coats and dresses have been splashed with animal prints and dotted patterns to bring a maximalist feel and tailoring features bold shoulders and sharp lapels. Waistlines are nipped in, fabrics refined and silhouettes oversized for a truly modern take on autumn's most-worn pieces. Alongside, there are evening offerings ready to set you up as best dressed at any upcoming event.

If previous drops are anything to go by, stock is set to move swiftly, so I've pulled together the standout pieces that are sure to sell out first. So if you're ready to inject a contemporary edge into your classics, keep scrolling to explore H&M's latest Studio collection.

SHOP THE H&M STUDIO AUTUMN/WINTER 2024 COLLECTION:

Of course, there's an array of brilliant outfits to play with over the coming season, but whether you're opting into revived denim, sleek tailoring or cosy knit dresses, a jacket or coat will always be the finishing touch. As the outermost layer, I want my jackets and coats to be as polished, chic and expensive-looking as my outfits underneath, and so it seemed only natural to start my hunt at Mango.

Editors and fashion people are well aware of Mango's brilliance when it comes to outerwear. Many will be acquainted with that faux shearling jacket or the recent cow print jacket that the brand couldn't keep in stock. As autumn arrived, the high street hero once again showed its design prowess with an influx of highly chic, easy to style and seriously premium-looking outerwear, and I've tried on the 7 best styles just for you.

The avid Who What Wear UK reader will be well aware of the fact that I do a lot of try-ons. Part of my job that I take very seriously is making sure that your purchases are as informed as possible any time that you part with your money. Each new addition to our wardrobe should be as informed as possible, in how to style, how wearable the piece is and if I can add in sizing guidance, fit and real-life texture into that, I will. So here it is, a guide to the brilliant outerwear on offer from Mango. Trust me, you're about to fill up your wish list.

For guidance, I tend to wear a size small in jackets and coats, and am 5'2". As I like to be as transparent and useful as possible, I also want to note that the Mango changing rooms have great lighting, but this can slightly wash out the shades in the imagery. The colours in the product images are more reflective of the true shades.

Keep scrolling to see the best 7 Mango coats and jackets for the autumn season, and shop them now.

SHOP THE BEST MANGO COATS AND JACKETS:

1. The Oversized Wool Coat

Style Notes: Brown shades are perennially chic, so you can understand why I was immediately drawn to this coat. The double-breasted buttons and sharp notched collar nod to classic designs, whilst the oversized silhouette brings it straight into 2024. Here I've tried the size XS as the fit is large but still has that nice relaxed silhouette which will also have room for your autumn knitwear. The wool-blend material is cosy and soft to the touch, ready to support your cold-weather looks for many years to come.

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2. The Leather Trench Coat

Style Notes: When it comes to reinvigorating the trench coat, Mango has it down to a fine art. This leather style is ready to induce compliments, bringing together one of the biggest fabrics of the season alongside a reliable design. The leather itself is incredibly smooth and lightweight, and the fit is just right—here I've tried the size S. The matte finish of the leather also adds to the premium feel. It is more of an investment piece at almost £400, but with the high-quality fabric, timeless design and easy-to-style shade, this is a piece that will earn its keep for years to come.

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3. The Pockets Cotton Parka

Style Notes: The autumn/winter runway shows were awash with this rich-looking jacket, and primed for the season Mango brings an affordable option to the fore. Featuring a reliable camel shade, contrasting corduroy collar and bold front pockets, this jacket ticks off all the hallmarks of a brilliant country jacket. To close, you'll find a series of poppers as well as the smart hook fastenings to ensure when the cold breeze glides through, you'll be fully insulated. Here I've tried the size S which has an oversized shape, adding to the easy feel of the style.

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4. The Leopard-Print Coat

Style Notes: As far as my personal style goes, I tend to stick to minimalist neutrals, but this bold print style is about to change that. Animal prints are trending this season, yet one pattern that consistently brings a fashion-forward feel is leopard print. What's more, the a-line shape is classic and elegant, making it even more appealing for my elevated wardrobe. The longer length, hitting me around mid-thigh, brings an extra polished feel with neat button closures that are concealed to maintain the refined design. Here I've tried the size S.

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5. The Cotton Trench Coat

Style Notes: We are all well aware of the brilliance of a trench coat in looking chic whilst taking on the drizzly autumn days. But Mango has reconfigured the style for an even more elevated feel. A fabric panel conceals the buttons, ensuring they don't take away from the neat silhouette. Alongside button closures, the waist belt can be tied to cinch the coat, whilst the drop shoulders bring another contemporary element to the fore. What I love is that the sleeves are slightly oversized, meaning that you can layer up your knits underneath without constriction. Again the fit is perfect, as I tried my usual size S.

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6. The Wool-Blend Jacket

Style Notes: As soon as I saw this online it went straight on my wish list, so I'm especially pleased that I was able to give it a real-life test. Whilst having a more relaxed feel through the textured fabric and easy design, the soft khaki shade adds a premium feel that readies this jacket to support my tailoring as well as simple jeans. Understated and anti-trend, this is a jacket that will work hard no matter the season. Here I've tried the size S.

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7. The Detachable Vest Wool Coat

Style Notes: Modernising the classic wool coat is something few are able to do successfully, but Mango has risen to the task. Taking the classic large collar, sleek oversized silhouette and soft wool fabrication, Mango adds a vest insert that proposes the option to wear with a double collar look. I'm so glad I tried this on as it is so soft and warm, primed for those chillier days. On the coldest days the extra vest layer will swiftly insulate, but can be removed on cooler moments or if you want a simpler look. Again, I took the size S here.

Shop The Detachable Vest Wool Coat:

What I love about the brand is that it taps into just a few key trends each season, so instead of an overwhelming shopping experience where you're scrolling for hours, shopping the site or in the store as I did couldn't be easier or more straight-forward. GU's philosophy? Focus on a few things, and do them really well. Right now, that means getting behind the viral barrel-leg-jeans trend with several denim washes and a corduroy iteration. Elegant cardigans, pretty ballet and Mary Jane flats, and a really good canvas barn jacket I found in the men's section are all the highlights of my shopping excursion and what you can expect to see in the slides ahead.

Did I mention everything is affordable? As in, under-$100 affordable. Yeah, it's that good. Shop my edit of must-have pieces and see for yourself.

Washed Cotton Work Jacket

There are hundreds of barn jackets on the market right now, but this one is really good. It's also a good reminder not to gloss over the men's section, which is where I found this hidden gem in three perfect colors: beige, olive, and charcoal. It's all about that boxy fit and the corduroy collar. I threw a beige one atop the outfit I was already wearing—a striped shirt and pleated miniskirt—and quickly realized it worked well with all kinds of style vibes, from that preppy look to jeans and a tee. I can already see myself throwing it on with leggings and sneakers too. Since the store had yet to open when I swung by, I've been itching to head back and buy it all week. It will be the very first thing I order.

Back Button Striped Shirt + Pleated Skort + Biker Boots

I found a trove of cool basics at the store, including a full rack of shirting. I pulled an armful of options, from shrunken to oversize, and quickly found a favorite in this blue striped style that features a panel of buttons down the back for creative styling options. I went up a size for an oversize look and styled it with the Pleated Skort (yes, built-in shorts for the win) and knee-high Biker Boots.

Double Pocket Knitted Jacket + Barrel-Leg Jeans

I've made it no secret that I'm a big fan of barrel-leg jeans, and I've tried about half a dozen styles from different brands at this point after covering the trend for the past year. When I say that GU's pair impressed me, I mean it. It's a slightly baggier fit, which makes the shape less dramatic and gives it an overall relaxed look and feel. IMO, this is the best way to wear the barrel silhouette. I was immediately drawn to this deep indigo wash that looked and felt so elevated. I paired it with the Double Pocket Knitted Jacket, a very chic jacket-style cardigan complete with pretty gold buttons and a thick, weighty texture.

Strap Ballet Shoes

I tried on a few different pairs of shoes in the store—moto boots, platform oxfords, and these ballet flats—and was blown away by how comfortable they all were. I have no choice but to assume that each pair involves some sort of built-in cushioned sole because the only was I could describe it was cloud-like. As for these flats, well, all I'll say is that they're as charming in person as they look online.

Denim Zip-Up Jacket + Barrel-Leg Jeans

Next up is the same pair of barrel jeans in a muddy blue-brown wash that's very of-the-moment. I styled it with the matching denim jacket, a zip-up style that feels so fresh and forward compared to a standard trucker jacket.

Dry Cropped T-Shirt + Skirt and Pants Set + Pocket Shoulder Bag

When I first walked in the store, there were a few pieces that I immediately grabbed off the rack to put in my dressing room, and these layered trousers were one of them. It's a convertible pair of pants that comes with a wrap skirt you can either wear together or separately, so it's like getting three pieces in one. I like that this piece pushed me a little farther out of my style comfort zone than I'm used to. I paired the pants with a cropped white tee and black shoulder bag to let them have their full moment.

Faux Leather Jacket + Corduroy Barrel Leg Pants

In case you haven't been able to tell by now, outerwear is one of GU's strongest categories, and this Faux Leather Bomber Jacket is just another bit of evidence to prove it. It comes in black and brown and is priced shockingly well for how premium it looked and felt IRL. Surprise! Here's yet another barrel-leg moment—this time in a wide corduroy iteration I couldn't help but try on.

Oxford Short Shirt + Pleated Midi Skirt + Narrow Tie

Preppy style is one aesthetic GU is currently leaning into. Many of the pieces I tried on tapped into the academic look, although none of the outfits I put together went quite as far as this one. I married the longer midi-skirt version of the pleated mini you saw earlier in a cool gray tone with a cropped button-down shirt and finished it off with a cheeky faux tie with a sneaky clip.

Lace Up Shoes

The shoe section didn't have a zillion styles—just the right ones. Between the moto boots, ballet flats, and these oxfords I tried on, it's almost like GU's merchandising is a lesson in building a capsule wardrobe. Invest in the right trends, and you'll realize they're actually more versatile than you think. That's exactly what happened when I styled these platforms that reminded me of a Prada pair from a few years back. I was pleasantly surprised to find that they went with more outfits than I would have originally thought.

More finds I want to try next: