LAYERING LESSONS WITH ALICIA RODDY

The clocks have gone back, and there’s an undeniable crispness in the air. We’re well into autumn now, but getting dressed for the occasion can still feel like a challenge. Quilted jackets, oversized hoodies and artfully placed scarves. If you’re stuck for autumn style inspiration, fear not: these are fashion influencer Alicia Roddy’s layering hacks to stay cosy and chic in equal measure for an escape to the English countryside.

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to reshaping your wardrobe for colder weather, the puffer is a solid starting point. The new collections offer no shortage of sleek updates to this traditionally boxy silhouette, but for Alicia, it could only be Bottega Veneta: ‘A puffer is a necessity for me in the winter months, and this one from Bottega one is the perfect mix of comfort and style. It works well casually but could also layer over an evening look – it’s an everyday, every occasion piece. The Bottega bag ties in with the collar of the jacket which adds some coordination to the mix of prints in this outfit. Burberry says British countryside to me, so I added in another layer with the knitted cardigan underneath.’

A timeless design motif that speaks to British heritage, a quilted jacket can be leaned on to inject everyday autumn looks with a touch of rural charm. If you’re looking to add a modern twist, however, Alicia says pay attention to the details: ‘I styled this outfit around the quilted Prada jacket. It’s the perfect piece for a day out in the countryside, and the length of it means it’s super easy to style with any trousers or skirt. I paired it with jeans for this day (the fit on this Saint Laurent pair is amazing, by the way). To add more texture to the outfit I included cosy accessories like the Jacquemus hat and scarf combination.’

Whether you’re in the city or the countryside, you’re going to have those days where you’d rather go under the radar – but you still want to look good while you’re there. For Alicia, this is where the trusted hoodie and jacket combination becomes especially useful. Undeniably casual, Alicia elevates the look with a Coach bag, while her choice of a barn jacket ensures it still feels appropriate for the countryside. ‘I’m all for a barn jacket, in the city or countryside, it’s a staple in my wardrobe from autumn into spring. It’s the perfect throw on jacket and works with everything. To create a more casual feel I wore an Anine Bing hoodie underneath too with jeans and chunky boots.’