If you’re looking for effortless, comfy and chic outfits that you can throw on this autumn, then JD Williams’ new-in range is a must-shop – and I put them to the test for the office
The cold weather can often put us in a bit of a tail spin when it comes to getting dressed, especially when we need to look somewhat put together. Although I work from home the majority of the time, I still like to make at least a little bit of an effort, so outfits that are comfy, warm and still look smart are staples in my wardrobe.
So when I clocked JD Williams’ new-in autumn selections, there were immediately some pieces I knew I needed to add to my work outfit rotation. From flowy co-ords to structured denim and a cosy coat of dreams, these were my favourite bits that I can wear just about anywhere this autumn.
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Structured denim
Pieces worn:
Mid Blue Barrel Leg Jeans – £45, was £48
Pure Cotton Mid Blue Volume Sleeve Denim Top – £38
Denim is a staple in my wardrobe regardless of whether I’m heading into the office, working from home, or going on date night, so naturally I had to nab some of JD Williams’ new denim pieces. They might be polarising, but I absolutely love a barrel leg jean – I find them so flattering on my curvy figure, they’re easy to style with anything and I think they make even a basic outfit look at least a few degrees cooler.
I picked up the Mid Blue Barrel Leg Jeans (£45, down from £48) which have just the right amount of rise on the waistband to keep you in proportion, with an above-ankle cropped length. The jeans are super comfy and soft, with just the smallest hint of stretch so they retain their shape well. I sized down from my usual size and found them the perfect fit.
On a slightly warmer day I paired the jeans with my H&M Collared Cardigan (£27.99) and a pair of adidas Originals Taekwondo Mei Ballet trainers (£85), which is a perfect combo if you’ve got a lengthy commute and want to avoid overheating on the train or in the office but don’t want to freeze outside. However on those colder days, I swapped the cardigan for a double denim look (a favourite of mine), with JD Williams’ Pure Cotton Mid Blue Volume Sleeve Denim Top (£38).
This top is perfect if you love a denim shirt but feel like they usually look a little too casual for anything other than brunch or the pub. It has a beautifully tailored, fitted silhouette that’s super flattering, and the voluminous sleeves make it look more grown up and sophisticated than a plain old denim button down. I suggest sticking to your regular size in this, although you could probably get away with sizing down if you prefer it ultra fitted.
Comfy co-ords
Pieces worn:
Stripe Oversized Long Sleeve Shirt – £34
Pinstripe Drawstring Wide Leg Trouser – £25.60, was £32
Wine Maxi Teddy Faux Fur Coat – £63, was £90
Although you could definitely get away with this co-ord in the office, this is also the perfect work from home outfit. It basically feels like glorified pyjamas whilst still being put together enough for video meetings, and you could easily mix and match each piece with jeans, knitwear, and even a bikini on holiday.
The Stripe Oversized Long Sleeve Shirt (£34) has a flowing, oversized fit so size down if you want a little less volume in it, but I took my usual size and it was just the right amount of relaxed. The Pinstripe Drawstring Wide Leg Trouser (£25.60 – was £32) are so loose and comfortable fitting, with a flattering flow to them that looks intentional, rather than sloppy.
The drawstring waist lets you adjust them to get the right fit, and the length is great for those on the taller side, although at 5 foot 4” they were just grazing the floor on me so are a little on the long side if you’re petite. The burgundy colour is also a big hit for autumn, and these will be on steady rotation for me throughout the season.
The final piece from this collection I got was the Wine Maxi Teddy Faux Fur Coat (£63 – was £90) which is a statement piece if I ever saw one. This coat makes an instant impact, and despite its boxy, straight cut silhouette, it’s actually very flattering on.
It has a roomy fit that’s great for layering over chunky knitwear, and the teddy material on the outside is ultra-soft. My only gripe is that the inside is fully lined with faux leather, which makes it a little stiff to move around in, but I’m hoping that it’ll soften up after prolonged wear. The faux leather piping details on the outside give it such a luxe look, however, and it’s a great classic piece that you can wear with jeans, midi dresses, or even as your outerwear for a winter wedding.
