Joanne Hegarty: I won't be naked dressing like the A-list this autumn

Joanne Hegarty, the Chic List columnist for YOU Magazine, says she won’t participate in the A-list naked-dressing trend this autumn. In a column published Sept. 27, 2025, Hegarty argues that sheer, body-baring red-carpet looks are not empowering and that fashion should prioritize warmth and practicality as temperatures fall.

She outlines a fall wardrobe built on warmth, texture and tailored silhouettes: a belted, full-length coat; a lace dress by Zimmermann; sunglasses and a bag by Saint Laurent; and shoes by Jil Sander. She also champions maxi coats, 40-denier opaque tights, cuffed denim, blazers with big shoulders, and a faux-fur option for transitional days. Ornate details such as brooches and vintage scarves are making a statement, while blues—both light and dark shades—are a key color family for autumn.

Her commentary leans into practical styling cues well-suited to everyday wear, rather than red-carpet spectacle. The suggested combination of denim with a sleek blazer and a belted, full-length coat echoes a broader move toward structured, versatile outfits that can transition from daytime to evening without rely­ing on sheer fabrics alone.

In addition to wardrobe guidelines, the column nods to accessory-led updates and the season’s detailing. Ornate brooches and vintage scarves are described as having a moment, while blue hues receive particular emphasis as autumn’s standout palette. The piece also touches on footwear and outerwear as anchors for a polished, season-ready look.

A separate note within the coverage spotlights a moment from New York Fashion Week, where actress Katie Holmes was seen in autumnal tones and carrying a notable luxury bag. Holmes was photographed with a $3,600 duffle from the Atelier collection by Alo, marking the brand’s expansion from yoga wear into high-end accessories.

Overall, Hegarty frames autumn dressing as a deliberate shift away from provocative, skin-baring trends toward enduring, thoughtfully curated pieces that blend warmth, silhouette and texture. The column concludes that the season’s most stylish looks will be those that keep wearers comfortable while still feeling polished and put together.