September marks the beginning of one of the most exciting transitions in the menswear calendar. As summer slowly gives way to autumn, everything begins to change. The rosé is swapped for claret, light summer salads make way for comforting Sunday roasts, and wardrobes shift from airy linens, lightweight cottons and tropical wool tailoring to rich tweeds, brushed flannels and luxuriously soft knitwear.
For those who appreciate classic menswear, autumn is much more than a change in temperature—it's the start of the best-dressed season of the year.
Above: A rural English scene in autumnal morning light.
There is something undeniably magical about autumn. The landscape transforms as lush green trees turn shades of burnt orange, deep rust and golden brown, creating a palette that has inspired generations of country clothing and traditional British tailoring. Crisp mornings, shorter days and the unmistakable scent of log fire smoke all signal that it's finally time to reach for heavier, more substantial fabrics.
As the temperature drops, our wardrobes naturally evolve. It’s time to reach for your lambswool and cashmere jumpers, your lightweight jackets are replaced by beautifully tailored tweed sports jackets. Your trousers turn from frescos, light worsteds or cotton chinos, to corduroy and wool flannel. It's a season that rewards thoughtful dressing, where quality fabrics and classic silhouettes truly come into their own.
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Above left to right: Alan Bennett Savile Row bespoke brown POW flannel suit made in 1987 with early 2010's Gucci webbed 1953 loafers, Drakes brown tussah tie, Albert Thurston box cloth braces; Cordings Piccadilly mid-weight tweed 3 piece suit with early 00's Russel & Bromley Made in England suede brogues, Drakes burgundy postage stamp tie.
At The Heritage Hanger, we welcome autumn with open arms. Classic menswear was made for this time of year. The cooler weather allows each piece to be worn as it was intended, whether that's a tweed jacket layered over shirt and heavy silk tie, or a heavyweight overcoat paired with a cashmere knit for a walk through the countryside.
Autumn also offers far greater opportunities to express personal style. Layering adds both depth and character to an outfit, whilst keeping the core principle at the front of the equation: warmth. Layering allows different textures, colours and patterns to work together in harmony. A brushed cotton shirt beneath a tweed jacket, a heavy silk tie against a crisp cotton shirt, or woollen knitwear under a tailored coat all create visual interest while remaining practical and comfortable.
Colour also takes centre stage during the autumn months. Rich earthy tones such as olive green, chocolate brown, burgundy, mustard and rust perfectly complement traditional heritage fabrics. These colours not only reflect the changing landscape but also pair effortlessly with classic British tailoring, creating outfits that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.
The arrival of cooler weather also means accessories become an essential part of dressing well. Silk ties, silk pocket squares, leather gloves, tweed caps and cashmere scarves are no longer optional extras but practical additions that complete an outfit. Each accessory adds another layer of personality while remaining functional, proving that classic menswear has always balanced style with purpose.
Above: Edward VIII wearing a Savile Row bespoke 3 piece glen check flannel suit, with a mismatched glen check tweed cap. Although his leadership was frowned upon, his personal style was regarded as one of the finest amongst royals.
That's why autumn remains our favourite season. It's a time when craftsmanship, quality fabrics and timeless style can truly shine. Every layer remains a necessary tool needed to leave the house, just like how it used to be many years ago.
If you’re looking for a unique vintage piece to wear this autumn, now is the perfect time to invest and enjoy. Every piece tells a story, and comes as an open book to be re-written again.
Browse our latest collection of vintage menswear; tweed jackets, knitwear, outerwear and accessories.