The end of August can only mean one thing: payday picks. The month that finally brought multiple heatwaves and various summer styling opportunities has definitely inspired us to get creative with our picks. From upcoming holiday additions to wedding season looks, and even the beginning of some autumnal outfit planning for September, the MC team has thought of everything.
As we continue to navigate dressing for the changeable weather in both comfort and style, we are happy to confirm our team is excited to secure one or two end-of-month pick-me-ups for this season. From Lily's trendy fisherman sandals to Sunil's ultra-chic workbag and Natalie's must-have kitten heels, there is bound to be more than one stylish pick for any style.
So, if you, like us, are on the lookout for an occasionwear dress, a trendy accessory, and even a super unique handbag (or two), we have collated each fashion team member's payday picks to invest in now, regardless of the occasion. From summer holidays to office power dressing in the sun, we've got you covered.
Andrea Thompson, Editor In Chief
Max Mara is my go-to for reliably stylish workwear that will last. I’ve currently got my eye on this elegant plisse textured cardigan cardigan which is versatile enough to wear with a crisp white shirt and my favourite leather skirt to the office or with jeans at weekends.
I’m in the market right now for a chic lightweight everyday bag for the office, which I can rely on to carry my basic essentials -phone, lipstick and wallet. I love this one from Demellier featuring the brand’s signature gold arrow clasp.
I’ve been eyeing up this Totem midi dress for a while which is effortlessly elegant and ideal for those days when I’m straight out to events after the office.
Who isn’t on a constant quest for the perfect black boot? I think I may have found it this season. These glossy patent leather pointy boots are part wedge, part kitten heel and will work with practically everything in my wardrobe. They’re also a stylish statement for fashion week.
Lily Russo-Bah, Fashion Director
I always find a new pair of sunglasses breathe new life into existing outfits. For autumn these Lexxola aviators are at the top of my wishlist.
Leopard print is my go-to when I’m short for time in the morning and I love the simple cut of this midi dress. Its easy to style whilst the days are still warm and will look great with a wool blazer or distressed leather jacket in winter.
Canvas jackets showing staying power thanks to designers such as Prada and MiuMiu which is why this COS version won’t be around for long. Click it before it goes.
Come autumn I’m always on the look out for smart yet comfy heels I can run around in. This white pair from Toteme are the perfect antidote to autumnal colour palettes and with London Fashion Week just around the corner they tick all the boxes.
Natalie Hughes, Fashion Editor
Goodwood Revival is my happy place – with so many incredible vintage traders and a dress code that spans 1940s-1960s, it's a vintage lover's dream. This year, the new Revive & Thrive stage includes DJ sets, fashion shows, workshops and speakers including Paula Sutton, Dita Von Teese and Patrick Grant. Now I just need to decide what I'm going to wear...
I am mildly – OK, extremely – obsessed with Miu Miu's new Aventure bag, inspired by a Y2K style from the house's archives. The shape, the belt closure, the gold hardware – it's all I want to be toting alongside everything from double denim to girlish mini dresses.
These beautiful earrings, from Pandora's recently launched Essence collection, are something you'll wear for decades to com. They look classic worn traditionally, as a pair, but I like the idea of wearing just one – or two on one lobe – for an edgier option.
& Other Stories' new collection has just arrived – complete with a campaign lensed by and featuring Nadia Lee Cohen – and it is exceptionally good. I will be investing in this golden bustier to wear all party season. I'm also eyeing up the matching trousers, a leopard-print bag and some perfect oxblood slingbacks.
Sunil Makan, Editor
I’ve long championed Bleue Burnham’s creations: they’re great investment pieces, contemporary in design and most importantly, are a bit of fun! I love the coloured Sapphires on this one.
Thoughts have turned to Fashion Month and the dreaded what to wear conundrum. It usually starts with a frantic meltdown but generally the week before I realise that no one is actually looking at (or cares) what I wear, so just opt for clothes that make me feel good. Part of said armoury includes a great coat and even though it’s sunny outside, I have my eyes on this long wool coat from Nanushka.
With it being one of my favourite AW24 shows, it was essential that I own something from the latest collection. I need a pair of shoes that that won’t look out of place with wool trousers or blue denim, are just the right side of chunky and super comfy (there’s a lot of walking!)—these lace up’s will do all that.
If money was no object, this tote bag would find its way into my basket in a heartbeat. It’s roomy enough to contain everything you need and is, in my opinion, the perfect example of what a stylish tote should be.
Penny Goldstone, Contributing Fashion Editor
I always like to treat myself to a new bag for the Autumn/Winter season and this year it has to be Manu Atelier's super chic new Cambon bag. It's also the perfect size to fit my small laptop in.
We don't technically have a work dress code, but Massimo Dutti's new 'Back To Work' collection is just too chic to avoid. I'll be purchasing these pinstripe trousers, and wearing them with an oversized knit and mesh ballerina pumps.
There's a gap in my closet for the perfect leopard print dress and I've fallen in love with Realisation's Gabriella dress in the new Leo print. I'll be wearing it with black slingbacks and a leather jacket for an evening out.
I've found said slingbacks.
Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer
Blink, and you might miss it. This phone cord from Ateljé made its recurring appearance on Emily in Paris season 4 last week and firmly cemented that I, too, shall have it.
Aviator sunglasses have been my top go-to accessory this season, and these translucent pair in a slight orange hue are the perfect high-street investment.
Studio Conchita is one of my favourite Mexican jewellery brands. Their pieces are vital scrolling material for anyone looking to invest in unique jewellery pieces that are made to make an impact. Made with fused glass, this handmade flower necklace pairs beautifully with occasionwear and casual pieces alike.
A white dress has been a massive staple this season, and I'm really looking forward to ramping up the effect come autumn by pairing them with sweaters and wax jackets.
Dami Abajingin, Affiliate Account Director
As much as I love summer, my favourite season is autumn. I have been dreaming about cashmere for weeks now, this stunning chunky knit from COS is so versatile - I can’t wait to pair it with satin skirts, jeans and more.
I adore these sculptural earrings, the bold design will instantly elevate any look.
I’m finding myself more and more drawn to barrel silhouettes at the moment, these vegan leather trousers from Free People will look amazing with a white t-shirt and trench coat.
These ankle boots will be the most hard-working item in my wardrobe this upcoming season.
