Whether you’re a mum on the school run kitted out in gym gear or a jeans-and-top-combo kinda gal, here are some alternative wardrobe essentials for the new term. They are timeless, practical, stylish and, best of all, take little effort to sling on at the crack of dawn.

Coats of armour
As the mercury drops another layer is a must, but we’re still in the transition stage where a winter coat is too bulky yet a cardigan is too light. Build on your wardrobe with a faux fur gilet that gets instant style points or throw on a Burberry-inspired print cardicoat/cape that covers bums and tums while adding interest to a plain outfit. A trench is a must especially for the autumnal months. Look for details that add interest, such as lapels, buttons and attractive collars.

Bottoms up
Although we’re loving denim at the moment, there are alternatives to pulling on your jeans everyday. Choose coloured denim trousers instead — this gives the comfort factor as well as style. Or choose a midi or a maxi skirt that keeps legs covered and leaves you able to move too.

Top of the tops
Breton stripes are not just for the Hamptons — make sure you have at least one striped top for those what-to-wear days. These lightweight knits will take you through the year and are easily adaptable to skirts and trousers. Keep to simple round and V-necklines that won’t date.

Finishing touch
A must for every mum-on-the-run is a cross-body or rucksack style bag. The more hands you have free, the better. This season sees a wide selection of affordable bags in an array of colours and styles that give life to every outfit. Likewise a leopard flat jazzes up your look and never goes out of fashion. Don’t be afraid to pair with other hues rather than just black. Reds and hot pinks look eye-poppingly stylish with a leopard print.