Lately, it's hard to know which style trends to follow. Not because some are better than others, but because of the sheer number of them, from silhouettes (think bomber and blouson jackets) to colours - autumn seems to boast a never ending conveyor belt of new shades. Luckily, there's such a thing as a 2-in-1 piece, which does a brilliant job of marrying two timeless trends together in a way that feels chic rather than overwhelming.
Among the many brands embracing the look, it's Next that has a serious knack for creating clever 2-in-1 pieces. Earlier this year, we saw its denim bomber jacket skyrocket in popularity, blending the workwear appeal of denim with the polished, cool girl charm of a bomber.
Then came a genius dress that combined the comfort of jersey fabric with the structured look of denim - the perfect piece to wear between seasons when a chill begins to linger in the air. Now, as we're welcoming autumn with open arms, another dual purpose design from Next has caught my eye. Naturally, it's perfect for the season, combining a knitted jumper with a dress.
Perfect for autumn, this double duty staple is the solution to all your seasonal wardrobe woes. The tartan skirt in burgundy and white plaid looks especially considered with the sewn on burgundy jumper, with both elements nailing the polished styles you've no doubt been seeing everywhere, both in store and online.
But it's not just the obvious detailing that makes this jumper dress so brilliant. If you look closely, you'll notice neat finishing touches that add an even more polished feel, proving that 2-in-1 dresses are less gimmick and more wardrobe hero. Think sharp pleats through the skirt and a neatly ribbed hem that makes the knitted top look instantly chicer.
Just as with any other dress, all that's left to do is choose which shoes - and, when the temperature really drops, which jacket - to pair with it. Suede or sleek leather knee high boots are a great choice, keeping you warm while perfectly complementing the autumnal feel of the outfit.
