Autumn Dressing. When it Still Feels Like Summer In Dubai

The leaves may be falling and there may be a chill in the air in other parts of the world right now with as Autumn officially enters the chat and cosy layers take center stage – but not here in the Middle East and in the UAE.  We’re still basking (albeit ‘sweating’) in 40 Degrees Celsius+ temperatures with the humidity so high – no freshly straightened hair is safe from the dreaded frizz.

I must admit, I’m a big fan of all things Autumn, it is in fact my favourite season especially when it comes to fashion and the latest trends to hit the stores.  I seem to get very excited about all the things which are way too heavy and warm to wear here in Dubai such as jackets, coats, boots and knits.  I usually have to reign myself in when it comes to buying all the new cosy styles and have a little talk with myself about when and where I will actually wear said warm layers. 

But how do you do Autumn style…when you live in what feels like an endless summer?  How do you embrace the mood of cosy season without overheating?

 Here are my tips on how to do Autumn…in the hot desert.

·      Swap heavy fabrics for lightweight alternatives:

Think linen, breathable cotton, silk or lightweight blends in warm Autumnal colours like this season’s key colours – chocolate brown, burgundy, olive green, grey, navy, black and butter yellow.  You’ll still capture the seasons palette without the weight of wool or tweed.  A linen dress in deep burgundy or a rust-toned silk blouse can nod to the season without making you overheat.  Of course, as the UAE winter months approach – those heavier winter fabrics like faux leather, corduroy, suede, tweed and wool will be more comfortable to wear especially in the chillier evenings and early mornings plus – walk around in Dubai Hills Mall in their crispy a/c…and you’ll feel nice and cosy.

·      Play with Autumn colours:

Even if you’re in a sleeveless dress, swimsuit or shorts set, channel Autumn through a rich palette of darker shades.  Swap your summer pastels and whites for browns, shades of green like olive and khaki, beige and camel tones, black, navy and burgundy.  This will give a seasonal Autumn update – no matter the fabric weight.

·      Lightweight Layering Tricks:

If you crave that layered look (like me!), keep it airy.  Let’s face it, it’s still hot here well into November – comfort is always key.  Wear your blazer over your shoulders, easy to wear and remove and provides an airy outlet.  Instead of wearing that fab new knit cardigan or jumper you just bought – again wear it over your shoulders and tie the sleeves into a cute knot at the front to give a preppy Autumn look.  Scarves are a big trend for AW25, tie one in an Autumn shade around your waist to add an element of styling, to cinch in your waist and add a point of interest to your outfit.  Dresses and skirts over trousers have also been making waves in the fashion world for this season – wear a satin/silk knee-length or asymmetrical slip dress or skirt over your jean’s trousers for an easy take on this Autumn trend.

·      Seasonal Prints and Textures:

Animal prints (in particular cow print for AW25), checks/plaid, polka-dots, suede and faux leather are Autumn staples.  Incorporate them in breathable fabrics – think a check-print midi skirt in cotton or a suede mini-skirt.  Faux leather always looks great for Autumn/Winter, instead of trousers – perhaps look at flattering shorts to style up with a pair of heels and breezy top for a night out.  Lace is also big news this season – layer a lace top over trousers, jeans and skirts as a clever way to incorporate it into an outfit.

·      Beauty and Nails as Autumn style signals:

Even if your wardrobe is still summer weight, your nails, makeup and accessories can bring the seasonal shift.  A glossy dark brown or burgundy manicure, a deep berry lip or earthy-toned eyeshadow nods to Autumn instantly.

·      Bags, shoes and accessories are KEY:

If you’re someone who likes to maybe add a ‘nod’ of Autumn and not switch your looks up too much here – accessories, bags and shoes are a great way to dress for the season plus won’t have you breaking out in a sweat walking outside in the UAE temps (except if you’re wearing heavy suede knee-high boots or Uggs!).  As mentioned above, scarves are a fantastic way to add an element of Autumn to any look, suede bags are everywhere right now and instantly give pumpkin spice season vibes plus loafers exude classic elegance and look great in rich tones such as burgundy, brown, black and beige teamed with jeans or trousers.

In the UAE, Autumn fashion is less about layering up and more about styling smart.  It’s about capturing the mood of the season – through colour, texture and accessories – while dressing for the climate.  This way, you stay cool in the desert sun but still look like you’ve stepped straight out of an Autumn fashion editorial.