It’s usually considered blasphemous to wish the UK summer away; however, after what’s felt like a never-ending heatwave, with temperatures rising far above 30°C, I think we’re all ready to welcome the transitional season. So, with the weather set to get colder and rain expected to fall again, this mid-weather season offers me an opportunity to experiment slightly more with my outfits, as a number of new trends are on the rise. And when it comes to the high street, H&M is known amongst editors, influencers and stylish dressers alike as the go-to destination for finding the most expensive-looking takes on high-end trends.
Already, the affordable brand has leaned into the defining trends of autumn 2026 far faster than its high-street counterparts, all of which can be worn from now and well into the upcoming season. Not to mention that, in true H&M fashion, every trend perfectly balances modern appeal with a timeless aesthetic. And luckily for you, after hours of scrolling, I’ve rounded up the five chicest trends below.
From elegant scarf-detailing that will dress up your jeans and Bermuda shorts to rich-looking Merlot hues that will bring some depth to any transitional outfit, keep scrolling to discover the five pre-autumn trends H&M is backing as we move from summer into autumn.
5 Pre-Autumn Trends H&M is Backing This Transitional Season
1. Pop Your Collar
Style notes: Minimal enough to pair with any dress, pair of jeans or tailored trousers, whilst also feeling fresh enough to serve as a point of difference from your classic jacket or shirts, the scarf-collar is the elegant detail H&M is backing from now and well into the autumn season. An instant outfit elevator, no one will guess that any of the polished finds below are from the high street.
Shop the Trend:
No notes.
This chocolate brown hue will be so easy to style in autumn.
How chic is this striped waist-detail iteration?
I’d pair this with black tailored trousers and leather loafers.
If you already own a myriad of black jackets, why not opt for this elegant navy hue?
2. Sole Mate
Style notes: I’ve already had many a heated discussion with my fellow editors about the controversial backless trainers I’ve been spotting on my commutes to and from the office, but H&M has taken a much sleeker and more elegant approach to this slip-on style in the form of loafers; something that I’m more than willing to get behind. It’s the very definition of easy elegance.
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The comfort of a slip-on meets the polish of a loafer.
Simple, sleek and easy to style.
Animal print has become a neutral in my wardrobe.
The gold buckle makes these feel very elegant.
Imagine this with an all-cream outfit.
3. Merlot Moment
Style notes: Eye-catching enough to earn you compliments, but also so classic that it will pair well with both neutrals and bold colours and prints alike, it should come as no surprise that expensive-looking merlot hues are dominating H&M’s new-in page right now. And the best part? This beautifully deep burgundy hue will never go out of style, meaning you’ll reach for it year after year.
Shop the Trend:
Yes, to this entire outfit.
An elegant silhouette you don’t usually find on the high street.
This went straight into my basket.
Just the right amount of slouch.
This has such a vintage feel to it.
4. Bubble Trouble
Style notes: A lightweight jacket will serve you well in the period between summer and autumn, but if you’re looking for something thats slightly more elevated than your classic bomber, H&M has a number of bubble-hem iterations that will offer a voluminous but flattering edge to any outfit this season. An easy way to add interest to your jeans, skirts or tailored trousers, this playful but wearable jacket is one that you’ll reach for time and time again.
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No one will believe this is from the high street.
I want the entire outfit.
Checks are synonymous with autumn.
I love the funnel neckline.
An easy layering piece.
5. Lace Value
Style notes: I’ve always loved the look of sheer lace separates; however, as someone who sticks to the modest side of dressing, I found them slightly too out-there for my wardrobe. Luckily for me, H&M has brought fully opaque lace-trim iterations to the forefront that feel wearable and well within my comfort zone, but with the vintage appeal of classic lace that I adore.
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Wear with jeans, skirts and Bermuda shorts alike.
I want the matching top as well.
I’d style this with flip-flops now, and knee-high boots when the temperature drops.
An elevated take on a classic autumn staple.
The perfect formal event dress.
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