British-Inspired Autumn Fashion Essentials for Redheads

By: Kara Dunford Bader

Moist maritime air, Headington stone and streets steeped with history, from royals to writers. How could one not find inspiration in this enchanting land, where autumn lingers and fashion is fearless? I was fortunate enough to spend the majority of my summer honeymooning across Europe and the UK with my equally enchanting husband. Of all the sights we so eagerly absorbed, I found the girly, yet edgy street fashion of Oxford and London unparalleled.

Mixing prints and textures, the likes of floral and leather, the ladies of Britain effortlessly pull off a girly/edgy vibe. Governed by the weather, opaque tights are layered under shorts, skirts and dresses. A quality trench coat and vintage-inspired cape keeps one warm, without sacrificing style. Plimsolls and menswear-inspired heels elevate you above puddles.

I’ve curated an assortment of ‘Redhead Friendly’ essentials I feel represent the best of British autumn fashion, from mainly British labels. Feel free to remark on your favorite British fashion staples and brands in the comment section.

1. From the ground up:

Plimsolls  – The Chucks of British footwear, these sporty slip-ons are incredibly versatile. A chunky white sole keeps feet warm and dry, while the black leather trim and gray felt modernize this schoolyard classic.

Menswear-inspired Heels – Pair these butterscotch beauties with a printed frock, suede skirt, or denim shorts for a truly timeless ensemble.

2. Guard those gams against the chill: 

 

Opaque Tights – A necessity for combating the maritime air, while wearing shorts, skirts and dresses – opaque tights. They are easy to wear and fun to experiment with. Express your personality with color and pattern – don’t fret if you incur a run in your tights, this adds to the edgy appeal.

Seamless Leggings – Pretty much an essential in all western wardrobes, seamless leggings transition from autumn to winter flawlessly. Classic, with the option to dress up or down, what’s not to love!

3. Dressed for success:

Shirtdress – Buttons, pockets and waist tie detail make this paisley print shirtdress fun and functional. Layer with opaque tights, plimsolls and a leather jacket for a street chic look. Redheads will look great with this look!

Bell Sleeve Dress – Channel mid-’60s fashion icon Twiggy with a floral bell sleeve dress.

Pencil Skirt – From the office to the weekend, this knotted viscose and wool draped skirt is one hardworking piece. Lightweight and ready-to-wear pair this pencil skirt with plimsolls, heels or moto boots.

4. Top it off: 

Playful Sweater – Add a bit of whimsy to your wardrobe with this double-decker bus motif cashmere sweater.

Striped Top – A good striped top can be dressed up with a skirt and heels or worn with jeans and shorts for a more casual look. Edgier than a solid top, the striped top easily straddles the line between simplistic and thrilling.

5. Button up: 

Double-breasted Trench Coat – Water-resistant, lined, hooded, belted, timeless and neutral – what more could a girl ask for. My trench coat in the above photo certainly earned its keep while in the UK. I recommend a model with a removable liner and detachable hood – these attributes ensure a hardworking coat that will transition with the changing seasons.

Leather Jacket – Nothing screams edgy quite like a zippered leather jacket. Wear over floral print dresses for contrast.

Cape – Polished and proper, this check cape adds vintage flare to your autumn wardrobe.

6. Aptly accessorized:

Mini Backpack – Your inner ’90s girl is gleeful. Perfectly sized for your goods, this black mini backpack is chic whether carried on the runway or the railway- mind the gap. You can also opt for a tan bag for a timeless look.

Structured Satchel – This school girl-inspired faux-suede satchel can be carried by the top handle, worn as a crossbody handbag, or converted into a backpack.

Round Eyewear – Nothing says British intellectual quite like round eyewear. Take a peep at this geek chic style.

From the Radcliffe Camera to Rockefeller Music Hall, Rock it Like a Redhead!