My Super-Affordable, Still Chic Fall 2020 Shopping Guide

Oh, autumn. For many, the cosiest time of the year—a decadent plethora of Pumpkin Spice Lattes, heart-warming fall foliage day trips, and bonfires. As for me? This is the largely anticipated seasonal shopping extravaganza. Keep reading for my the crème de la crème fall 2020 shopping guide.

As the weather becomes cooler and I start spending more time indoors, there are two immediate consequences in my household:

The budget for hot beverages, hardcover books, and cute but slightly unnecessary throws skyrockets.
I get feverish about the seasonal news arriving at shops.

To be honest, autumn is the only time of the year when I go a bit too excited about shopping. This is the period when brands bring to the fore my favourite colour shades, fabrics, and textures, and I feel like a kid in a candy store. (To be more specific, like August Gloop in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I live in genuine fear the Oompa Loompas will come for me, someday.)

Many years ago, once a carefree English student who would spend her money not very wisely, I would go on a manic shopping spree every autumn—which meant I was left with a tight budget for seasonal outings, books, or any other expression of a comfortable existence. But as I matured and went through an exhaustive shopping detox, I adopted the healthy habit of writing down a shopping list between September-October and stick to it. As a result, my saving accounts improved and so did my perception of shopping needs.

I am not going to lie, though: as all those gorgeous knitwear, jewel tones, and dresses arrive, I make an extra effort to rationalize my shopping list and adhere to it. (Sebastian could tell you a thing or two about my yearly transformation into Gollum, and how I will whisper ‘my precious‘ to every piece of clothing I see…)

But going back to the topic, the whole point is, I find shopping guides super useful and also, fun. Over the years, I have developed a fancy for them so I thought I’d share with you my favourite picks this year. And remember children: don’t blame me if you go over-the-top with your shopping this year.

This is my autumn 2020 shopping guide

1. The Giambattista Valli-inspired Zara blouse

Look at this beauty. What could you possibly not love about it? The neckline bow, volume-contrasting sleeve details, and plumeti texture are just to die for. The greatest bonus? This shirt does look much more expensive than it is, and it will give you all those couture vibes on a budget. Definitely, I am adding this to my seasonal picks, since I find it timeless and perfect both when on duty or out and about.

2. Next preppy style 2 in 1 sweater

Personally, I am all about sweater-plus-fake-shirt pieces: they provide you with the rare window of opportunity for looking formal, without the nuisance of wearing too many layers. They are one of my staple autumn classics. No surprise I jumped of joy when I found this gorgeous mustard one at Next recently. What can I say? I love a good old white collar over all that pumpkin/mustard knit. Don’t pretend you don’t! We all know you’re adding it to your shopping cart too…

3. The romantic ruffle trims Zara jumper

Guys, I swear God Zara is not sponsoring this post in any form, but every year around September, they start stuffing their shops with an exquisite selection of knitwear. Just to illustrate my allegation, check out this cute sweater. It’s chic, it’s classic, and pretty much the perfect off-white shade. Still in hesitation? According to their website, the material is made of recycled PET plastic (such as the one used in water bottles) to reduce the consumption of natural resources. I rest my case, your Honor.

4. The killer Elderflower halterneck Ted Baker dress

I don’t know about you, but the irredeemable curse of my fashion existence is never finding the right black pencil dress. Most of the time they can be too much, with an exaggerated cut/bold construction which will let very little to the imagination. I remember a dress I tried at home a couple of years ago and that made me feel… well, rather exposed, to say the least. And isn’t it stupid spending about a hundred pounds just to look naked? Yeah, I think so too. This dress, on the other hand? It’s CLASSY. It looks fitted but still not too revealing, with a gorgeous halter neckline and tie-bow to underline the smart look. As for the floral skirt pattern? Simply delicious. I am adding this dress to my closet as the perfect choice for an office day (with a nice cardigan), or a dinner date with the husband—style versatility is dirty talk to me…

5. The amazeballs H&M pink trench

I think we all agree trench coats are such a seasonal must-have. However, I find that we tend to buy the same colours over and over—mostly, for the sake of versatility. Don’t get me wrong: I believe in buying pieces that will work with your existing wardrobe is a style key, but we can be a bit more creative without sacrificing convenience. Case in point, this gorgeous pale pink trench from H&M. I am all about colourful trench coats but this particular shade of dusty pink works as a neutral as well, which will make styling far easier. Extra points for a recycled material lining.

And this is my Fall 2020 shopping list! Everything on it is stylish and will be adding to your wardrobe for the seasons to come.

I would love to hear everything about the news in your closet! Tell me everything about it. What are your latest purchases? Any seasonal recommendations?

(Now, if you excuse me, I will roll back to my Gollum state while online shopping…)

October 7, 2020

Allegra Caro16 Comments

Reasons to love Autumn (even in the Instagram age)

Last Sunday, I convinced Sebastian to go for yet another autumnal walk at Regent’s Park.

Given the fact that it’s November now, you might think it’s not earth-shattering precisely (and that I must be a bit bored to make a weekly highlight from this), but the keyword here is YET. At least, that’s what he underlined when I asked him to spend the day outdoors on Sunday morning. “Are we going out for YET another autumn walk?”, he muttered rolling his eyes. No need to say that I did the only sensible thing—I ignored his comment and cheerfully proceeded to unpack my new tweed Zara coat, wrapping myself for that ignominious walk. (And totally feeling like a winner by getting all those #blairwaldorfvibes. Thanks Zara. We have had our differences but you really amended things with this beauty.) But back to the topic…

I don’t blame him, though. As a matter of fact, I totally see his point.

In case you have been a social media user for some time now, you might have experienced a certain Déjà vu just before the summer death: you are still wearing sandals while enjoying the last few days of your vacation but suddenly, your Instagram feed is full of girls enjoying their first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season. Temperatures are still over 30°C and scarves look like medieval torture instruments, but the Fall obsession is real. Every TV ad, internet pop-up, and tweet is solely focused on this.

By the time October arrives, you are bored of Autumn style—all the dull knitwear, tedious ochre and brownish tones, and Hypster hats. To sum up: you are sick and tired, praying for December to come so it’s over. Rest assured, you are not alone.

Disclaimer: The next confession might make you leave this blog and never come back, screaming in horror. Even so, I’m going to roll the dice and tell you my darkest secret. Ready? (Hitchcock music coming in three, two, one…)

Against all odds, I love autumn.

Horrific, right? I live in fear my family will find out, proceeding to disinherit me at once. Probably, after posting this, a raging mob will raid my apartment at midnight, armed with pitchforks and torchlights.

I know what you are thinking: “Allegra, dear. You started the post quite reasonably. And now you come up with this?” Well, I could apologize and blame all those films glorifying the autumnal season in New England. But instead, I prefer to tell you why despite all I wrote before, Autumn is still my favourite season (and yes, that’s a total cliché).

Reasons to love Fall

(even in the Instagram age)

01. Autumn Picnics

Everyone enjoys going for a picnic in July, right? Well, here goes my second confession today: I HATE it. Not only do I get sunburns easily and hate mosquitoes with a passion (I consider them to be my personal nemesis), but also my thermoregulation is close to non-existent. In Autumn, on the other hand, you can sit on a blanket under a tree with your thermos flask full of tea and a book, enjoying the landscape.

02. Outdoors Cinemas

I am rather peculiar about this too. I promise I am good person, though.

For most people, Summer is the outdoors season but very recently, I’ve enrolled an outdoors cinema where movies are shown from March to November. As a result, I’ve watched some of my favourite films in a garden, with a cozy blanket over my knees and a cup of tea in my hands. And let me tell you—there is something undeniably poetic in listening the words “Last night I dreamt I went to Manderly again” by an autumnal bonfire.

03. Fashion

And I am not referring to earthy colours and knitwear only. September is the date time for New York, London, Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. Pinterest blooms with thousands of seasonal pins, and the new season collections are finally out. Besides, you can use black monochrome outfits and darker lipstick again with zero judgement from other people (welcome home Rouge Noir! We missed you so much).

04. Netflix pre-Halloween marathons

Many people might have their say about admitting this on a style blog, and it won’t make me look like the most sophisticated person ever but to be fair, I don’t consider myself very chic. So who cares, really? I LOVE horror movies and to me, October is the perfect time to plan endless home evenings, catching up with AHS or any of your favourite horror classics in Netflix. Yes, I just broke the fashion bloggers rule by saying that. Don’t worry, I will return my badge to the fashion police…

05. Landscapes

I left my favourite part for the end, as I usually do. Please, if you can, take the chance to have a walk after work, or maybe just go in the weekend. Enjoy every single seasonal colour. There’s something about all those red, gold and rust tones that deserves to be contemplated once a year.

In the Instagram age, seasonal clichés have certainly doubled and at some point, we have all gone a bit extra with the number of seasonal pictures we over-share with our friends and family. However, our personal preferences and tastes (whether we’re speaking about autumn walks, that very-much-hyped beauty brand, or photos of cute kitties) should be respected at all times. At the end of the day, they are a part of our identity too.

Coat: Zara / Blouse: Zara (last season, similar here) / Headband: Zara

Bag: Metamorphose (vintage piece, similar style at Dune)

Skirt: H&M (sold out, alternative at & Other Stories)

Boots: Deichmann (alternative at Aldo)

November 14, 2019September 29, 2020

Allegra Caro25 Comments

The Knitwear Edit: Why we all need statement jumpers this season

Certainly, not me! I’ve always thought it’s funny how people find fall fashion a bit depressing, really. They see it as the beginning of a long soulless season when style must be sacrificed in favour of the weather demands. Goodbye sundresses, hello old coats. As for me? Nothing could be further from the truth.

As a matter of fact, I find dressing in summer challenging: yes, you have all those beautiful light dresses but depending on the hot temperatures (and remember that I am Spanish, so I know a thing or two about that) any outfit easily ends up on a sweaty mess. Chic, right? I have lost track of the times my perfectly planned summertime outfit had to be replaced by some random natural cotton dress which would allow me to breathe and not to bake in my clothes…

Cooler weather, on the other hand, leaves some room for creativity. There is that awesome trench coat you love so much and the occasional playful pattern; there is the softness of velvet and the statement coat you can’t live without.

But knitwear is what really makes me squeal of delight.

The second October hits and the weather chills a bit, I devote myself to the sacred mission of unpacking the jumpers: all that gorgeous cashmere, angora and chunky wool sadly packed away during the warmest months. Also, it’s time for my yearly wishlist!

Two days ago, Sebastian frowned at the sight of my (always expanding) knitwear pile but said nothing. Then, he found me sitting in front of the laptop, happily adding about 40 sweaters to my shopping cart. “Just to be clear”, he stated with a concerned tone, “you’re not shopping ALL of that, are you?” I simply looked at him, Regan McNeal style bloodshot eyes, and gave him a quick yet unconvincing “Just researching for the blog” reply, which seems to be my personal motto these days. Actually, I repeat “Just researching for the blog” (or J.R.F.T.B. from now on, if you please) so much, I am afraid they will use that as my epitaph… But I digress here.

The whole point is, knitwear can be not only a sartorial need but also FUN.

Everyone from couture designers to high-street brands seem to agree since this season is full of statement pieces. Forget about your neutral colour old-school jumper: Autumn and Winter will be dominated by jewel tones, rhinestones, lace, textures and more!

But do we really require statement sweaters this season? In my humble opinion? We do. Maybe, one of the reasons why most people loathe autumn fashion is its apparent monotony—its hardly arguable tedium. Maybe, all we need is introducing a stroke of colour, an unexpected twist.

Since I truly believe fashion—above all the things—should be fun, I am sharing some of my favourite seasonal knitwear today. All the statement styles and all the budgets. No matter if you are a Chloé fan or a New Look lady: I have you covered.

The Knitwear Edit

Jewel tones opulence

Zara Christopher Kane Gabriela Hearst

I tried to convince myself that I was looking at these three beauties as a part of the J.R.F.T.B. process but let’s be honest: we all know they will end up in my closet sooner or later. I mean, rich colours, rhinestones, and velvet? Who could resist that? Surely, not this girl! I guess I will have to figure out a way of smuggling these into my house while dodging the attentive surveillance of Sebastian (a.k.a. Hercule Poirot). I should start watching Peaky Blinders to get some fresh ideas…

Feminine neutrals

New Look Zara McQueen

This Fall, neutrals are not boring anymore. Just look at these astonishing specimens. Sometimes, the use of simple elements such as an interesting neckline, some cute ribbons or a frilly cuff can make all the difference between plain and stunning. Personally, I rarely go for neutrals when it comes to knitwear but this year may be the exception. Both the New Look and McQueen pieces can be easily added to your professional wardrobe with zero effort: try pairing them with some nice tailored trousers or a nice statement skirt. Plus, they are classics so they will add value to your collection in the long-term too.

Embellished beauty

Dolce & Gabbana Self-Portrait Red Valentino

I have left my favourite sweaters at the end of this post. What can I say? They are nothing but pure perfection. I love every single detail in them: from the amazing silk flowers to the bell-shaped sleeves. And although I know their price tag may look a bit intimidating, I firmly believe the number of times you will wear something made with high-quality materials will balance the cost-per-wear. Sometimes, it’s not only about the design but also about the piece’s lifespan.

This is all for today’s post. As for now, I will add a few more striking pieces to my shopping chart (feel free to send me any links you consider relevant).

After all, I am just researching for the blog, right?

Jumper: Stradivarius (last season, similar here) / Shorts: Old Zara (New version)

Bag: Michael Kors / Tights: Calzedonia

Boots: Deichmann / Scarf: Natura (similar at Burberry)

November 6, 2019November 6, 2019

Allegra Caro20 Comments

Five Beauty Essentials for the Perfect Autumn look

If you are a frequent blogs reader or an active Instagram user, you have probably noticed the Fall season content tidal wave out there.

Suddenly, it seems everyone is obsessed to share their seasonal joy these days. And you know what? I am OK with that. Because in terms of Autumn, I am a total groupie: I love a good bonfire, a nice long walk in the crisp air and all those gorgeous outfits flooding my Instagram news section.

Most people associate Autumn with rich colours, soft velvet, and golden leaves, and although I am all about burgundy tones and that infamous pumpkin latte, to me Fall season is connected to deep scents, earthy eye shadows, and a bold lip. Seasonal beauty looks are my favourite part about the whole thing.

In general, I consider myself a very organised person, which means that by this time of the year I have sorted out most of my products and I am ready for the long-awaited Autumn game. This year, though? Not so much.

When we first moved to London two months ago, the removal firm lost one of our boxes. Unfortunately for me, most of my makeup collection was in that box. And let me tell you something: that hurt. Like, on a worst-nightmare-of-a-beauty-lover level. All my awesome Nars eye shadows and MAC lipsticks gone. FOREVER. (Yes, I am breathing inside a paper bag while writing this.) I am quite sure this is future therapy material—I know, I know: Drama Queen Alert. #firstworldproblems—but in the meantime I tried to keep calm, take a deep breath and then I made a list of the absolute five Autumn products I can’t live without. I am still crying over all the lost products (they did serve honorably and surely deserved better), but I had to prioritise my needs and go for a little shopping trip.

Since we all love a good shopping haul, today I am sharing with you the top five beauty products for a perfect Autumn look.

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The Chocolate Bar Palette

Oh, Too Faced! You really cracked the code with this one, didn’t you?

When this delicious palette was first launched back in Spring 2013, it was meant to become iconic. Its 16 chocolate scented eyeshadows are infused with 100% cocoa powder, nourishing the skin and releasing antioxidants. But what I truly love (and guys I am not exaggerating when I say I like it so much, this is my to-go choice a good 90% of the times) is the exquisite spectrum of velvety and shimmering Autumnal tones—from rich browns to decadent plums, every Fall colour is represented here. An absolute essential if you want to indulge yourself.

Christian Louboutin Beauty Velvet Matte Lipstick in Djalouzi

I have written in this site about the opulent Velvet Matte lipstick before so, you won’t be surprised to hear me say this is one of my Autumn must-haves. Djalouzi is a stunning oxblood tone intensely pigmented and with a non-drying matte finish. The luxurious vial-shaped packaging adds value to an already brilliant product. Obsessed with all things crimson during Fall? (Hi there. I feel you, soulmate!) Then this is your winning bet.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Liquid Concealer

Do you believe in miracles? Usually, I would say I don’t but this product made me a believer overnight (and I am being quite literal: it took about two days for it to become my ride-or-die concealer). At this point in my life and being a thirty-something lady with a permanent dark circles genetic situation over here, I am far from easily impressed when it comes to the concealing department.

Regular concealer? Checked. Caffeine serums? Checked. Bathing in the blood of a unicorn sacrificed under the moonlight? Checked too. No, my dark circles won’t go away. Notwithstanding, this product really honours its name—it’s magic! Not only does it vanish my stubborn dark circles and the occasional blemish, but it also plumps my skin slightly leaving a subtle velvety feeling to it that I simply adore.

Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils

Because to me, dramatic lashes are the key to any Fall look, I return to this mythical YSL mascara every year. Are you into pro-vitamin and Morocco oil products? Do you fancy a bit of colour to match your seasonal makeup? Are you looking for a product that prevents any smudging, clumping, and flaking? All of the above, maybe? Good! Yves Saint Laurent has you covered. I am not prone to be tempted by luxury or high-end products when it comes to my lashes but this one is an exception. All I can say is that it is worth every single penny.

Chanel Coco Eau de Parfum

As an extra, I want to include a fragrance in this list. I know most people will not consider perfume as a part of a beauty look and they are probably right. As for me, your scent is the final touch to any look, which is the reason why I am including it in this post.

Described as a luxuriant composition with contrasting notes of mandarin, jasmine, Ylang-Ylang and patchouli, Coco is one of those perfumes you will always go back to. I only started using it last Christmas but it quickly gained a permanent status on my signature perfumes list. It is classic without being too heavy and although the scent does stay with you, it won’t make you dizzy. It feels nice on the skin but I do enjoy spraying it directly on my clothes or the tips of my hair, where it stays nice and fresh all day long. Also, it is more mature and sophisticated than my other Chanel love, Coco Mademoiselle (which might be a better option for Spring).

And these were my top five beauty products for a perfect Autumn look.

I would love to hear about your favourite seasonal beauty products too: perfumes, lipstick, eye shadow… you name it! Let me know what are your absolute Fall essentials or the last additions to your beauty collection.

November 4, 2019November 4, 2019

Allegra Caro12 Comments