There are many people out there who feel that a new season means a completely new wardrobe. Indeed, this is one of the main criticisms of the fashion industry, in that it promotes mindless consumerism. However, I don’t believe that this is the case. It is for the designers to come up with brand new collections several times each year, and it is for us to look at what we can pick and choose to insert into our existing wardrobe.
With this in mind, here is a brief synopsis of this season’s key trends. Happy shopping!
A – Androgyny. Each season this trend takes on a new guise, and this time round it’s all about slick tailoring teamed with slick hair. Keep it feminine with a touch of red lipstick and colourful shoes.
B – Bomber jackets, the new must-have piece of outerwear. Boots are also an essential item for anyone’s autumn/winter wardrobe. This season sees the classic knee-high take centre stage once more.
C – Capes. Wear with skinny trousers and high heels for a longer silhouette.
D – Dresses. Whatever the weather, find one that makes you feel like you never want to take it off.
E – Evergreen. Pine-needle green works as a great alternative to black for work wear. Try it in the form of a blouse or court shoe.
F – Florals. Usually the reserve of spring and summer, floral prints have made an unseasonal appearance. Think less ditsy Liberty print, more big and bold statement.
G – Gold. Whether it’s your accessories or clothing, it’s time to get your shine on. Just be wary of turning into a bad 80s throwback.
H – Hats. Arguably the must-have accessory of the season, hats add that little bit of drama to an outfit. Fedoras, cloches, caps… the choice is yours.
I – Indigo. Nails, bags, shoes or suits: all suit this versatile colour
J – Jewellery. Autumn colours are naturally a bit more muted, so make your jewellery do the talking with bright splashes of jade, turquoise, silver and garnet. Layer chunky necklaces for a modern update over workwear.
K – Knitwear. Chunky knits, cable knits, slim silk knits… they’re all for the taking. An elegant piece of cashmere is the perfect way to dress down a silk maxi skirt for day wear.
L – Legs. Yes it’s getting a bit colder, and our summer tans have worn off, but that’s no excuse to hide behind trousers for the next six months. Get your legs out in an array of brightly-coloured hosiery to set off that brand new pair of boots.
M – Men’s shoes. If heels are a bit of a struggle, then why not try some brogues, Chelsea boots or loafers? Best worn with skirts to keep the look more ladylike and less ladylump.
N – Neoprene. The surprisingly successful fabric of the year. Don’t go all out and wear a wetsuit; keep it subtle with a clutch bag or shoes.
O – Origami. Structured shoulders, peplum waists and cocoon silhouettes are all key looks this season.
P – Pencil skirts. This is not just for those sitting behind a desk. When teamed with an embellished top and a pair of killer heels, a pencil skirt makes ideal evening wear.
Q – Quilted jackets. Available at every price range, there’s nothing cosier than snuggling down into a padded collar and soft sleeves.
R – Regal. You’d be hard-pushed to find a brand that hasn’t got something with a crested breast pocket or mini crown motif. Tongue in cheek required.
S – Scarf. So long summer silk, hello winter woolliness.
T – Trousers. Yet another season of different shapes is upon us. Palazzo pants make a great alternative to maxi skirts, and you can hardly move at the moment for the glut of seventies-style flares in ochre, plum and teal.
U – Umbrellas. A true British staple, not to be left at home.
V – Velvet. This fabric makes a comeback each year. My personal favourite would be a velvet body teamed with cigarette pants. Understated glamour at its best.
W – White. How to convey luxury and glamour in one item of clothing. Just watch out for buses and large puddles.
X – X-rated. The fetish trend was going strong on this season’s catwalks. While feather dusters and bondage boots might not be to everyone’s taste, there’s always room for a little lace or leather in your winter wardrobe.
Y – Yellow. Less sunshine, more mustard.
Z – Zoo time. Animal prints are still everywhere, albeit in a slightly more subtle way.
