15 English-inspired Cozy Clothing Must-haves

As a travel writer, I’m fortunate that my job finds me across the pond typically at least once a year. Often, it’s London (like when I had the opportunity to fly out for King Charles III’s coronation), but I get outside of the city, too. On a recent trip, I got to explore the Cotswolds, the posh, historic English countryside dotted with centuries-old estates. (And I may have taken a quick Supermarket Sweep-style side trip by car for a shopping spree at Bicester Village, a beloved destination outlet mall filled with designer shops.) 

No matter where I go in England, I find the default street style is way chicer than it is at home in the states. (That might have something to do with the fact that I live in Los Angeles: the yoga pant capital of the world.) And in a place where it often rains and rarely gets superhot, English style trends toward layered and cozy most of the year — especially so in the magical autumn season. Based on what I’ve seen on my travels across England, this is my unscientific, vibes-driven assessment of what everyone there is wearing for fall 2024.

Madewell The ’90s Straight Mid-rise Leather Pants

I always see a lot of leather when I visit England, and it makes sense even in spring and fall when it’s not yet wintry-cold outside but there’s that permanent chill in the air. This 100-percent leather version from Madewell draws inspiration from the 1990s with a slouchy straight leg. Front pockets are very figure flattering and functional, too. Overall, the vibe is polished but relaxed.

Everlane The Phoebe Trouser

The Brits definitely don’t subscribe to my hometown’s athleisure-for-all-occasions philosophy. In fact, they don’t even call “pants” by that pedestrian name; “trousers” sounds so much more elegant, don’t you think? These have a chic wide leg and high waist with angular front pockets, perfect for wearing with sweaters and Chelsea boots or loafers in the fall.

Adidas Samba Sneakers

Across the pond, sneakers are called “trainers,” and this cool and timeless Adidas pair translates on both sides of the Atlantic. Sambas have a minimalist cut and an all-gender appeal. Ideal for multipurpose wear, they’re a powerhouse packing staple. Grab them in white with black stripes, or the reverse — either way, they’re cool and functional.

Dr. Martens Shriver Boots

From Pete Townshend to Sid Vicious, a range of British rock stars and trendsetters have worn boots from this iconic British brand. The black leather boot is a classic, and its supportive comfort is known to hold up for years, whether you’re strutting the streets of London or sprinting to your gate in the airport.

Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote

British people seem to haul around as much gear as I do on a daily basis — but they make it fashion. For instance, why carry your 15-inch laptop in a utilitarian backpack when you could make it look so polished and British in this roomy leather tote bag? It has two sturdy shoulder straps and an interior slip pocket, and comes in always-versatile black or cognac colors.

Kirundu Turtleneck Sweater

The last time I was in London for work, I didn’t love what I packed (it didn’t help that my favorite jacket got stolen on that trip, too). So I ducked into a shop to buy another layer, and came out with a sweater similar to this one. I absolutely love it and it seems to go with everything. (Kate Middleton wore a similar striped look in the video announcing her cancer diagnosis.)

The Drop Noa Trench Coat

Many of the luxury retailers at the Bicester Village shops and other high-end shopping districts are known for making classic trench coats — cue the legacy British brand Burberry. This one achieves a similar look to those designer garments but for a lot less money. A trench gives any outfit an instant Euro-chic upgrade.

Artisure Classic Leather Loafers

With a dose of everyday polish that feels properly British, a classic loafer is always in style — plus, they’re still laid-back and slip on and off with ease. These are made of 100-percent leather, so they’re durable and comfy, molding to your feet over time. And the cushioned insole and breathable leather lining make them a smart pick for extended walking. They’re lightweight, perfectly packable, and come in 23 colors.

Moss Rose Women’s Shawl Wrap

A wrap shawl is such a chic way of dressing for the blustery weather typically experienced in England in the fall. I love how this one fastens in such an elegant, even regal, way with a tab on the front. Made of a polyester and viscose blend that feels cashmere-like, this shawl has a soft, plush feel but a budget-friendly price. 

Cole Haan Ramona Ankle Bootie

Chelsea boots originated in England in the 1800s, and they’re still a staple of daily wear. This sleek boot has a leather upper but also waterproof, sealed seams, so they’ll keep your feet dry during rainy British weather. Plus, they’re versatile, streamlined, and go with everything.

Merokeety Sweater Dress

When I visit England, I notice that many of the women choose structured dresses instead of amorphous flowy ones. This affordable option is comfy to wear with a built-in stretch, but it looks so polished with the decorative buttons and (nonfunctional) front pockets. This one goes effortlessly from day to evening, and works great in a professional setting, too.

Maeve The Colette Faux-leather Skirt

I saw so much leather last time I visited England and I thought it looked so cool. But as a longtime vegetarian, an all-leather ensemble isn’t for me. That’s why this faux-leather skirt appeals to me. It’s formfitting, high rise, and has patch pockets. Plus, because it’s vegan, it’s both more affordable and machine washable — win-win. 

Anrabess Open-front Knit Long Cardigan

Compared to a sweatshirt, a cardigan is a much more grown-up way to layer and stay warm when the air is crisp in the fall. This approach also aligns with the British sensibility. I love how deep the front pockets are, great for warming up your hands or stashing the day’s essentials, and I love the versatility — it wears equally well over jeans or a dress.

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Stretch Blouse

When I last traveled to England, I was part of a professional group led by a woman with the most impeccable button-down shirt style. I studied her intentional half-in-half-out front tucks carefully and made a note to emulate the look as soon as I got home. This is the perfect shirt for that effortlessly chic style since the button-down is silky with a ton of movement and a bit of stretch. Made with 90 percent mulberry silk and 10 percent spandex, it’s machine washable.  

Amazon Essentials Packable Puffer Jacket

Functionality is key in England when it gets cool and wet, but British people just don’t do sloppy looks. This puffer jacket provides warmth and water resistance with quilting and insulation, but it looks tailored, too, with a cut close to the body and a stand collar. Zip pockets keep essentials secure and the whole thing packs into its own bag for ultimate portability. 

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