There is no denying it anymore – the cold chill is setting in, the heating is on and pumpkin lattes are back at Starbucks! Autumn is here, and with is comes a dread from many women when thinking about how best to adopt the autumnal trends while reducing the risk of a hot flush while buried somewhere beneath all the extra layers. Here, Claire Causton, The Menopause Stylist shared her tips for the new season.
For many women, Autumn is their favourite fashion season; cosy layers, chic boots and the return of the statement coat. But if you’re going through menopause, the thought of heavy knit jumpers and wool coats can be less exciting and more overwhelming. A hot flush while wrapped up in knitwear is something none of us want to deal with.
This is a struggle I see every year with my clients. Women want to look stylish and current, but they also need to feel comfortable in a body that doesn’t always play ball. Hot flushes, night sweats, bloating, changing shapes can all make getting dressed a challenge. The good news is, with a few clever choices, you can have both style and comfort this autumn.
Following the trends
This season is all about rich, earthy tones such as chocolate browns, burgundy, jewel greens and warm autumnal shades. These colours are flattering, timeless, and easy to build into your wardrobe. Tailoring is making a big return too, with echoes of the 80s; wide-leg trousers, sharp shoulders, nipped-in waists. If that’s your style, embrace it with confidence.
But don’t feel pressured if tailoring isn’t for you. Autumn is also about texture clashes such as sequins with sweatshirts, preppy checks with knee-high boots, or romantic styles with frills, lace and tulle. Personally, I love leaning into feminine details like lace and flowing dresses, soft layers and accessories galore. The beauty of midlife is knowing yourself better. You don’t need to wear everything that’s in style this season, only the parts that make you feel like you.
Fabrics
As a midlife woman, the biggest game-changer for me while going through the menopause was fabric. Natural fibres like cotton, silk, linen blends, bamboo, cashmere and even mohair can help regulate your temperature. They allow your skin to breathe, which is so important if you’re prone to sudden heat. Even semi-synthetics like lyocell can be a good option. Try to avoid polyester-heavy knits as these will only make you feel sweaty and uncomfortable.
Think of your wardrobe in layers rather than single pieces. A lightweight cotton tee under a cashmere cardigan, a fine knit jumper with a gilet or a silk blend shirt under a wool blend blazer will give you warmth when you need it, but you can strip layers back if you start overheating. A silk blouse layered under a cardigan or gilet works in the same way. Breathable fabrics also tend to drape more beautifully, which can be flattering if you’re dealing with bloating or body changes.
The power of a statement coat
If there’s one piece I recommend investing in this season, it’s a great coat. Oversized coats are everywhere right now, and paired with bold shoes, they make dressing effortless. On days when brain fog hits and you don’t want to think about what to wear, you can throw on your simple base, whether that’s jeans and a lightweight knit, or leggings and a t-shirt, add your statement coat and shoes, and you’re ready to go. It’s the easiest way to look put-together with minimal effort.
Don’t forget the role of texture and colour in your outerwear. A chocolate brown wool coat, a burgundy trench or even a bright oversized puffer can bring a whole outfit to life. Think of your coat as part of your look, not just something you throw on top.
Add investment pieces
If you’re thinking carefully about where to spend, focus on jackets and boots. These are the items you’ll wear most in autumn, and they’ll lift any outfit. Boots in particular can transform your look. A chunky ankle boot with leggings and a jumper gives a modern, casual vibe, while a sleek knee-high boot instantly smartens up skirts or dresses.
Burgundy, which was big last year, is back again and for good reason. It’s classic, elegant, and works beautifully with chocolate browns and other autumnal tones. It’s a colour you’ll keep reaching for, pair it with navy, grey, camel and even soft pinks.
Keeping it simple
Most of us live in our basics day-to-day, be that jeans with a sweatshirt, leggings with a hoodie – whatever you feel most comfortable in. My clients are always asking for my go to style advice, how to feel more ‘put together’. I want to share with you the same thing I tell all my clients; I tell them not to overthink it. With the right outerwear, breathable layers and a couple of standout accessories, those simple outfits can look super stylish.
Accessories are a really easy way to update your wardrobe without buying lots of new clothes. A belt is great for cinching in dresses and shirts to give you the illusion of a waist, a silk scarf adds interest without bulk, and statement earrings or layered necklaces draw attention upwards, which is ideal for anyone feeling self-conscious about their midsection.
Dress for you
The most important thing I tell every client is this: not every trend is for every woman, and you don’t need to follow them all. The women who look the most stylish are those who know what works for them and wear it with confidence. Dressing well during menopause isn’t about hiding, it’s about finding the clothes that let you live comfortably while still feeling like yourself.
Menopause changes many things, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing style. This autumn, choose fabrics that support you, invest in pieces you’ll wear again and again, and most of all, dress in a way that makes you feel confident. Fashion should feel fun, not stressful and with the right approach, autumn can become one of the most enjoyable seasons to get dressed for.
