Summer might still be in full swing, but seasoned fashionistas know that getting to grips with next season’s trends now is the key to getting ahead of the curve. If you’re the kind of person who prefers to be a leader over a follower, then it’s time to start planning your autumn / winter wardrobe now, and with some of the hottest new season trends set to hit the shops imminently, there’s no better time to get acquainted with them.
The latest catwalk shows in London, Paris, New York and Milan were once again awash with bold and exciting new styles we can’t wait to get our hands on. From faux fur to corseted ball gowns, and the coolest women’s winter boots to be seen in this year, here, we dive head first into the looks to fill your wardrobe with now, to enjoy wearing later.
Y2K Chic
The 90s revival we’ve seen over the spring and summer months of the year has been a thrilling one, with mini skirts, babydolls, platform trainers and bucket hats all making a long-awaited comeback – but as we head into autumn, we’re jumping forward a decade and preparing to embrace all things Y2K.
The low waistlines, double denim and pointed flats of the 2000s are about to come back with a decidedly loud bang, with some of the world’s leading fashion houses showcasing the cargo trousers, corseted tops and bandage dresses we once loved and giving them a modern update to make them thoroughly wearable once more. So, it’s time to dig out those designer baguette bags and low-slung belts you’ve been safely storing away in the meantime, because now is their chance to shine again.
Corseted ball gowns
On that note, one of the biggest new trends for the winter party season is set to be corseted ball gowns, which combine a fitted torso with a voluminous skirt to create a look that oozes contemporary femininity. Expect tactile fabrics like silk, velvet and tulle, and wear yours with a simple pair of pointed flat pumps for a day-to-night look for the daring fashionista who isn’t afraid to make a statement.
Statement jewellery
Nothing has the power to add a touch of glamour and excitement to an outfit quite like a statement piece of jewellery, and a chunky pendant or a thick chain link necklace is enough to instantly elevate even the most minimalistic of ensembles. If earrings are more your thing, then go for a pair of chunky gold hoops for classic glamour or some feather earrings for a more unique choice with added personality. Choose one piece of jewellery to make the statement and keep the rest simple for maximum impact.
Faux fur
It’s rare for faux fur not to feature in any autumn / winter fashion edit, and this year will be no different. With a growing number of fashion houses eschewing the real thing in a bid to evolve their values and keep customers engaged, the catwalks for the season ahead were filled with beautiful, over-sized faux fur coats, with enveloping volumes and natural colour palettes taking centre stage. Once again, clashing elements of femininity and masculinity are set to be a key trend that these garments lend themselves to nicely – simply team with a pair of chunky, lace-up winter boots and you’ll have it nailed with effortless ease.
Sheer dresses
The long-sleeved mesh tops of the 2000s were once again seen making their way onto the catwalks for autumn and winter, worn underneath short-sleeved t-shirts for a casual daytime look – but the transparent trend will be making a bigger and bolder impact this year in the form of dramatic see-through evening dresses.
Not one for the faint hearted, the latest and greatest garments coming out of our favourite fashion houses manage to combine elegance and allure without appearing trashy – depending, of course, on how you wear them. Avoid skimpy underwear or going braless, and opt for some sassy and sophisticated lace underwear that sufficiently preserves your modesty, and layer an oversized fur coat over the top to keep out the cold and tick off an additional trend in the process.
Barbiecore
Every new season has its colour, and hot pink is set to be the order of the day as we head into autumn and beyond. Yet another nod to the ongoing ‘Barbiecore’ trend that has had us captivated this year already, expect bold dresses, jumpers and micro-minis in this stand-out hue, with plenty of added sparkle.
According to a recent report by Klarna, search results for hot pink items have seen a dramatic increase over the past six months, with pink mini dresses surging by 970 per cent -and as the trend continues to gather momentum in a bid to brighten up the darker days of autumn and winter, we can expect to see this continue right up until the end of the year and beyond.
