The autumn/winter essentials team IMAGE are shopping for
Soft knits and woollen coats, new-season scents and statement-making accessories — the shopping baskets of the IMAGE staffers are overflowing with items that will bring us from early autumn right through to the depths of winter. Here’s what we’re shopping for…
Amber O’Shea, Social Media Manager
This season, I’m all about finding fun and versatile layering pieces that can easily elevate my favourite dresses, skirts, and trousers from last winter. One standout on my wishlist is a gorgeous hand-crafted piece by the incredibly talented Ríon Hannora. Her designs are truly one-of-a-kind, and I love how every item feels so unique. There’s something really special about curating a wardrobe filled with carefully selected, artisan pieces that not only stand out but also reflect your personal style. Wearing something handmade just gives a sense of individuality and connection that fast fashion simply can’t offer.
The books on my nightstand: I always feel like winter is the perfect time to get lost in a thrilling story while snuggled up with a cup of tea. Right now, I’m diving into Kill For Me Kill For You, which promises to be a gripping, edge-of-your-seat thriller. Let’s be honest, is it even winter if you’re not reading a good mystery on those colder evenings?
I’m also planning to cosy up with We Were Young by Niamh Campbell. It’s a nostalgic and heartwarming read, ideal for those moments when I want to embrace a sense of comfort and nostalgia during the colder months.
When it comes to fragrance, autumn/winter is when I switch things up. I’m currently trying out UNIFROM’s Discovery Pack to find the perfect scent for the season. I love how UNIFROM fragrances skip the synthetic chemicals and focus on creating long-lasting perfume oils. For me, longevity is key in a fragrance, and I love finding something that sticks with me all day while making a subtle, memorable impression. Plus, their unique blends have this amazing ability to make you stand out. Just what I’m looking for in a signature scent.
Lizzie Gore-Grimes, Editor-in-Chief
The piece I am most looking forward to snuggling up in this autumn is this gorgeous soft touch Merino wool ‘Whimbrel’ skirt in bone from the Haven collection by Irish brand Ireland’s Eye. Paired with this Isabel Marant top – I love the dropped sleeve and the cinched waist. And I’m still hankering after a Landskein coat, so this year might just be the one!
Megan Burns, Editor, IMAGE Interiors; Deputy Editor, IMAGE
Being a true autumn/winter girl at heart, I’ve been eyeing up coats and jackets since mid-summer. I’d love to invest in a leather jacket – I love this one from Soeur, but this coat is also calling to me…
I bought this cardigan from the Uniqlo : C collection last autumn in grey, and I can safely say it was the most-worn item in my wardrobe. It’s incredibly soft and a perfect shape. I’m seriously considering getting it in another colour, I just can’t decide which one! And as always, I’m thinking about beautiful Aran knits: I dream of Stable of Ireland’s lush green one.
And as someone who is in the awkward stage of growing out a fringe, I was delighted to nab a Ralph Lauren baseball cap in TK Maxx over the weekend – ideal for keeping annoying pieces out of my face when I’m out and about.
Shayna (Sappington) Healy, Branded Content Editor and Wedding Writer
I’ve been trying to find pieces that brighten up my mostly black wardrobe, but can also peacefully co-exist with my current Wednesday Addams aesthetic. This cardigan is that chic piece with that added touch of feminity I’ve been looking for.
I’ve been on the hunt for a leather blazer that fits my bigger bust, which is much harder than I thought it’d be. Enter this rare beauty – a leather blazer you can wear open or fasten with a single button that hangs lower on your waist, so you don’t have to worry about that awkward pulling or gapping.
Emily O’Neill, Branded Partnerships – Marketing Account Executive
Burgundy is the colour of the season and I am here for it! Top of my wish list for A/W is the Adidas Originals Handball Spezial Trainers in Burgundy Cord. They are such a versatile trainer which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I also spotted a gorgeous slogan knit in New Look which I think I might treat myself to on pay day! It is perfect for a cosy autumn day paired with dark denim and a chunky scarf.
Meghan Killalea, Branded Partnerships – Marketing Account Executive
I am an out and out lover of all things Autumn/Winter fashion, and every year I can’t wait to add to my ever growing collection. Although I love a cream moment, I want to add more colour to my wardrobe – especially some deep red or chocolate brown.
I’m in love with the Oblong Shoulder Bag in dark red from NA-KD Fashion. The ballet flats trend has definitely caught my eye, and these silver pumps (also from NA-KD) are currently in my shopping basket waiting to be purchased.
Finally, I think this is the year I’m going to cave and get some UGG Tasmans. I keep seeing such comfy outfits on Pinterest that I think I’m going to give into the trend – although the Dunnes dupes are a very tempting alternative!
Sarah Gill, Staff Writer
When I think of autumn dressing, patterned tights are where it’s at for me. I love the simplicity of throwing on an A-line skirt and jumper, and styling it up with some fun tights and jewellery. I always stock up on the Andrea Bucci polka dot style in Dunnes, but I love the slightly-more-statement version from Calzedonia. And their diamond print knee-highs are utterly adorable, if the weather allows.
Years ago, my aunt bought me a beautiful cream Aran jumper from the Woollen Mills in Galway, and a handful of wears in, a big glob of foundation smeared itself down the front of my gorgeous knit. No, it was never the same again, and yes, the heartache still feels raw. So, this autumn feels like the right time to invest in a replacement, and this Soft Donegal Aran from Moss + Cable is lightweight, feels gentle on the skin, and will pair perfectly with pretty much anything.
Sarah Finnan, Deputy Digital Editor
I’m doing my best to shop less but better this season. Like most people, I’ve fallen victim to trends but every time I clear my wardrobe out, it’s those impulsive purchases that are first to go. There are a few pieces I have my eye on though.
Top of the list? A button up blouse with a deliciously oversized collar. I love this cotton candy one from Damson Madder and know it would look as good popping out from under a chunky knit as it would with black pants.
I’ve also been after a pair of indigo jeans for the longest time. I love the darker wash for autumn and this style from Citizens of Humanity ticks all the boxes for me. They’re definitely an investment piece but I think denim is worth splurging on.
The other items on my shopping list—a silky lace mini skirt and a red crossbody bag (currently out of stock, sigh)—are inspired by Franki Dammone. I came across her page on Instagram this summer and she’s quickly become one of my favourite follows. She’s got impeccable taste!
Sophie Power, Chief Operations Officer
Top of my wishlist for this autumn are some fun and vibrant mid-length skirts to dress up a simple chunky knit such as Stella Nova’s Silver Bomb Skirt and their Purple Sequins Skirt.
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