Summer Might Nearly Be Over, But Self Portrait’s New Collection May Just Ease The Pain

It's difficult to shake off the feeling instilled in all of us from an early age that a new year actually begins in September, when school resumes. From new pencil cases and that inimitable smell of brand new books, the start of the academic year calls for a whole load of new things, purchased with a hopeful air and accompanied by a set of resolutions. Even all these years later, when I'm not longer beholden to the academic calendar, September feels like something of a milestone. It's the end of summer and the beginning of a new season – whether or not this actually manifests in the weather or not. It's also the time when brands launch their new collections, regardless of whether or not the trees have started to shed their leaves. Shiny new accessories, shoes and clothes are the adult equivalent of a new pencil case, after all.

One such brand is Self Portrait, the mid-market success story that now has an army of celebrity fans, including the Duchess of Sussex and Beyoncé. It has just revealed an array of pieces as part of its autumn collection and – let me tell you – it's good. It's really good. It's good enough to make me feel excited about the prospect of cooler temperatures and knitwear anyway, which really is no mean feet in August.

You may associate Self Portrait with a party frock, which is perfectly reasonable. If so, you won't be disappointed, because the new dresses are a complete delight. There's no escaping the 80s references, from sharp shoulders to tiered skirts, but there's also day-friendly midis and printed peplum blouses that will instantly jazz up your work uniform.

There's also some excellent knitwear, which will really act as a hero piece in your wardrobe. After all, each one is statement enough that if you wear with jeans and some patent loafers, you'll like you spent longer than usual considering your outfit. They are also, however, still jumpers, meaning they're easy to wear, comfy and practical. They'll also look great with a satin midi skirt, providing a texture clash of epic proportions.

Crepe dresses with puff sleeves, sequin check midi skirts, velvet jumpsuits... the collection is packed with – and I don't use this term lightly – real showstoppers that still adhere to Self Portrait's accessible price point. They're the sort of clothes that collect compliments, and that you'll want to wear for years to come.

Don't think of this as (nearly) the end of summer, then – consider it a new beginning. If not for your academic career, then certainly for your wardrobe...

SHOP: 9 Of The Best Pieces From Self Portrait's AW19 Collection