It’s that time of year again, when it’s out with the old and in with the new – and with a full wardrobe refresh on the cards for the season ahead, it’s one of our favourite months to hit the shops. With some of autumn and winter’s key trends already beginning to flood your favourite boutiques and department stores, it can be tempting to splurge and think later, but if you’re keen to invest in some quality key pieces that will last the distance, then it pays to know the trends to look for before you go.
There are certain trends you can always expect to see at this time of year, and 2018/19 is no different, with the return of some old favourites a dead cert. But, as ever, there are some unique new twists on some typical A/W prints, incorporating new cuts styles for an utterly modern feel.
Ready to get shopping? We’ve rounded up the five key trends to look for this season, as well as the specific garments you’ll want to get your hands on – and the designers and high street stores that have done them the best. From splashing the cash at Fendi to using discount codes with Debenhams, it’s elbows at the ready – the race to get hold of the season’s top fashion pieces is officially on.
Leopard print
Leopard print has long since left behind its trashy image of times gone by, and this autumn and winter, it’s back in a big way. Seen on the catwalks of Balenciaga, Tom Ford, Givenchy and Calvin Klein earlier this year, it’s no longer limited to boots, scarves and accessories – and many designer stores are awash with printed skirts, dresses and denim jackets for a stand-out statement look.
That said, less is still more when it comes to bold prints such as this, so be careful not to go overboard – opt for simple black accents to pull your look together and smarten it up, or pair with denim for a casual daytime get up.
Tweed
A timeless classic that never goes out of fashion, it was hardly surprising to see tweed making a return to the catwalk for autumn and winter. Adding an air of heritage and countryside chic to your wardrobe, a chunky oversized coat is set to be the wardrobe staple of the season – and Miu Miu’s bold, 80s inspired version is top of our wishlist.
Try clashing textures for maximum impact; think tweed on leather, velvet or silk for luxe countryside cool, and add some sharp lines and shapes for a slicker city look.
Checks
Another print that is rarely off the catwalks for autumn and winter, check makes yet another reappearance. From tartan to gingham, plaid to Prince of Wales heritage, this year there are endless variations to choose from – but our favourite has to be Versace’s 90s-inspired Clueless style, as worn by Cher Horowitz. The high street has managed some great takes on the trend this year, too – check out Topshop for tartan co-ords in a range of vibrant colours incuding pink, yellow and red.
Leather
Leather is set to lead the way this season, dominating catwalks in the form of trousers, trench coats, skirts and of course boots. You can never go wrong with classic black – invest in a quality staple piece, and it’ll see you through until spring. But for the more adventurous type, Givenchy’s offerings might turn your head, with coats in a range of dark and muted colours. Our favourite was the olive green.
If you buy one piece this year, make it – well, two. A simple trench and a black leather midi – as seen at Hermes – are all you need for this autumn and winter, and will go seamlessly with any of your other key buys.
Cowboy
Isabel Marant led the way for the cowboy trend, opening her show earlier this year with some distinctive country music and sending models down the catwalk in prairie dresses and cowboy boots. Most of us have had a pair of such boots at one point in our lives, and if you’re investing this year then you can be sure that the trend will come full circle once it’s had it’s time in the limelight – so be sure to put them away in the springtime ready for their inevitable return to favour in future.
Fendi is the place to go for some of the most show-stopping boots, but those looking to give more of a subtle nod to the trend might like to head for their neckerchiefs instead. Opt for one or the other, but not both – overkill is never a good look!
Gloss
It’s all about the high-shine this season, with wet-look latex and vinyl adding a sexy edge to any outfit. Simone Rocha’s patent red dresses are not for the faint hearted, giving a nod to dominatrix appeal, but head to Fendi for a glossy, rain-proof trench and you’ll have maximum style points in the bag.
If head to toe isn’t your thing, then head to Debenhams for a great selection of patent leather boots – then keep the rest of your look simple in pared down monochrome.
From shimmering, glossy metallics to body-con fabrics that leave little to the imagination, this is a look that requires some real dedication to looking the part. These might not be the most comfortable pieces to wear, but the results are worth the effort.
