Navigating a workwear wardrobe after months Zooming in a blouse and tracksuit bottoms requires a refresher course and, in some cases, a complete rethink. As more of us return to the office this month, fashion is playing its part to boost confidence. What to wear? For inspiration, see Finishing Touches (page 18). Whatever you wear, a small bag is the must-have accessory. One of autumn’s key trends, these mini and micro marvels channel the fact that most of us downsized mentally, if not physically, and want simpler lives with less baggage.

Many will be thinking of an autumn overhaul in more ways than one – devotees of intermittent fasting describe the ups and downs on page 60, In The Fast Lane. On the other hand, a less austere approach, with a little indulgence and a few treats, might be just what we need to ease re-entry anxiety. Trish Deseine believes all menu planning should start with pudding (page 52) for instance. Julie Dupouy finds wines to suit the rich tastes of autumn (page 54).

Elsewhere in the issue, Dior’s Cordelia de Castellane gives us a tour of her cosy, comfortable and decidedly non-minimalist home (page 68). And as the days shorten, small additions to our lives, from uplifting new scents (page 44) to engrossing books (page 66) as well as the prospect of an interesting Irish travel break or two (page 58) will help boost serotonin levels and as a result, our “collective effervescence” (see page 38). After a year spent doing less, we are all ready for more.

Don’t miss THE GLOSS Magazine October issue out tomorrow with The Irish Times.

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