Disclosure: AD, this is a sponsored post, however all opinions are 100% my own.

Autumn is that magical season when you can let your wardrobe reflect the cooler temperatures but enjoy the sunny days and blue skies overhead. Developing a personal style which works for this season doesn't have to be hard. If you're over 40 like me, and want to enjoy dressing well with a great fashion sense that works for your body type here are some ideas and inspiration. It doesn't have to be jeans and a jumper each day! You can look sharp, feel confident, and enjoy dressing for the every day or for a special occasion.

This September I'm working with Cotton Traders as they have launched a new collection to change up your style during these cooler temperatures. This year it has been quite hot at times but full of surprises as we've also needed to wrap up more in the evenings. Use this as an opportunity to try items you wouldn't normally wear. They might just become your favourite pieces for Autumn/ Winter!

Know your body type & use it to your advantage

One of the best things you can do for your dressing room routine is really understanding your body shape or body type, whether you’re pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle or something in between. This doesn’t mean following restrictive fashion rules, but using them as a wardrobe essential checklist to see which cuts flatter or elongate, where to add structure, etc.

If you tend to carry weight around your midsection, high waist wide leg trousers or a modern suit with structured shoulders can balance proportions.
If you’re tall & slim use volume: midi skirts, shift dresses, slouchy trousers, even a short skirt for a youthful twirl.
If you're more curvy, try wrap styles, tailored waist jackets or belted coats can highlight the waist without squeezing anything.

This Single Breasted Cord Blazer is a great example of a modern, tailored jacket which would look fabulous with jeans or dressed up with a skirt or trousers. Available in Acorn, Teal Blue or Dark Sky, these jewel colours give a nod to Autumn and keep you on trend.

Update your capsule wardrobe: which staples should we own?

A capsule wardrobe frees you from daily indecision, I need this as mornings are frantic and I don't want to have to think about these choices too much. For autumn, consider equal parts comfort and polish by investing in wardrobe staples you’ll wear on repeat.

Essential pieces might include, skinny jeans - I'm not giving mine up! They can still look current if the denim has stretch and the ankle is neat. Pair them with boots or loafers.

Shift dresses: simple, elegant, perfect for layering, or going out. Dress up with accessories or under a blazer for special occasions.

A modern suit: tailored blazer and trousers, or skirt if you prefer, for meetings, family gatherings, evenings out.

Wide leg trousers: comfy but stylish; a great counterpoint to skinny legs or structured tops. Paired with blouses or knitwear in the colours flatter your skin tone. I’m going with neutrals plus one or two seasonal shades like dark reds, jewel blues and forest greens.

Don't give up your dresses as the weather changes, this Cowl Neck Printed Midi Dress is stunning in Dark Taupe. Just the right length to pair with knee high boots and all the perfect shades to take us through the season. Dress up with a belt and gold jewellery or down with trainers and a cropped jacket. I can see this being a Christmas Day dress!

Mix different styles & trends

I know we all see in fashion magazines plenty of trends: oversized coats, animal prints, platform boots, etc. But rather than chasing every new thing, pick classic items and styles that you know align with your body type and personal taste.

It could be a a shift dress in an autumn print, layering wide leg trousers with a semi-fitted top to balance volume. Use capsule wardrobe thinking I've mentioned above, one steady, well made pair of boots or one statement bag which can take you from day to night. A pair of smart but easy to wear trousers in a tone that works with many of your tops.

Don't be influenced by people who do not have your lifestyle or age as what they care about will be different.

For example if you are looking for style and comfort in equal measure these Jersey Pull On Wide Leg Trousers are needed in several colours! No one will know these have a fully elasticated waist with their smart check and popular wide leg. Available in Black, Navy and Dark Chocolate.

Fashion sense & style beyond clothes

Style isn’t just about clothes as we all know it’s about posture, grooming and the confidence you carry through the door.

However if you need a boost, having an easy to use selection of clothes which fit well and with key pieces pulling it all together you can feel confident even on rainy days.

Investing in a good coat and rain jacket (for school runs!) add a little polish when you need to leave the laptop quickly and head out of the door.

Accessories often carry your look so remember to use belts and at this time of year scarves! Even jewellery can lift simple outfits.

Here's an example of confidence outerwear! This Wool Look Check Coat is not only incredibly snug and on-trend, but its eye-catching check and great cut mean you will reach for this every year.

Pulling it all together

I'm realising more and more that the ladies I see as having great style know their bodies well and dress for comfort. This doesn't mean you can't be fashion aware, it just means they try new things but are honest about what makes them look and feel great.

As you start to notice what suits you, look for these styles each season and you will waste no time in creating a little capsule wardobe for different times of the year.

So this autumn, whether you're leaf‑crunching on walks, watching lots of kiddies rudby or having friends for dinner, remember to be yourself.