Autumn trends
Whether or not you’d say you’re interested in fashion, it’s hard to ignore. It surrounds us. Whether we’re shopping for ourselves, going to the supermarket, watching TV or scrolling social media, people are wearing clothes and we take that in. Clothes are a language. What we wear connects us to others. It builds our identity and our confidence, and conveys who we are. In the smallest ways, it also signals to others that we have something in common.
“I want to look put together and feel like my younger self,” I hear from clients. Whatever your age, you don’t want to look out of touch, even if you never buy into a single trend.
I’ve done my own edit of the key UK trends for women this Autumn, with tips to help you decide whether each one is for you. By “you”, I mean your style personality, so each trend comes with the style words it suits. Some tips on shape and colour included too.
Ladylike, made everyday
Elegant, with more everyday dressing.
Think a smart blazer or a Chanel-style cropped jacket with wide-leg jeans. A statement coat, or an oversized blazer with more feminine pieces, works too.
Why it might be you
If you use words like “classic” or “elegant” to describe your style, this could be one for you. It’s a more intentional, feminine look with one bold item in the mix. This year’s take is more eclectic, so feel free to experiment, even a little. And really, you could likely put it together from your own wardrobe: a blazer you love, a good pair of jeans, a coat with presence. (Outfit shown from Hobbs)
What to watch out for
Double-breasted jackets add size to your top half. Larger coats add volume overall, so think about where you want it added.
Get in touch if you’d like help finding the best styles for your body shape.
1920s detail
Art Deco-inspired detail, large and small.
Think dropped waists, heavy beading and fake fur collars.
From sheer beaded blouses to oversized hats and embellishments, retailers have each put their own spin on this one. Everyone from Topshop to M&S to ME+EM has a take, so there’s something at every budget.
Why it might be you
If you’d describe your style as “glamorous” or “elegant”, this could be one for you. If you want to go small, there are plenty of options: a cluster of brooches, or a new blouse with some beading. Any vintage jewellery tucked away in a drawer will do the job nicely.
If you want to go big you can, but this is likely to go out of fashion quickly, so consider your purse and the environment before buying new.
What to watch out for
A dropped waist hides your waist completely and can make this area look larger. If your waist is something you like to define, try a nod to the trend elsewhere, such as beading at the neckline or a fur collar.
Get in touch if you’d like help finding the best styles for your body shape. (Outfit shown from Zara)
Playful proportions
A statement piece to draw attention.
Think very long pullovers, oversized jackets and volume skirts.
Why it might be you
This is one for you if you’d describe your style as “bold” or “dramatic”, and you enjoy being noticed. If that’s not you, a single oversized jacket over your usual pieces may be enough. You may already have a long knit or a fuller skirt to start with.
What to watch out for
Wide trousers and full skirts add volume to your lower half. That’s good if you’re looking to bring some balance, but consider your shoes and what you’ll wear on top.
Get in touch if you’d like help finding the best styles for your body shape. (Outfit shown from ME&EM)
Cobalt blue: a bright alternative to autumn darks
A vibrant colour with its roots in the 1980s.
From full outfits to a key jumper, this colour can brighten up a wet-weather day (don’t save it for sunshine).
Why it might be you
If you’d describe your style as “vibrant”, or this is a colour that brings you energy and you like to stand out even a little, consider it a change from the predictable darker autumn tones. A cobalt scarf or bag you already own is an easy way in.
What to watch out for
It’s a cool tone and works best on those with a cool skin undertone. Hold it next to your face in daylight to check how it works with your skin. If it does, it sits well on its own or with black. If it drains you, wear it away from your face, in trousers, a bag or shoes.
Find out how a colour analysis finds the shades that help you radiate. (Outfit shown from French Connection)
Earth themes
Think nature-inspired looks, from flowers to sheep.
A wide range of options to choose from if you love nature built into the design of your clothes.
Why it might be you
If you’d choose words like “natural” or “romantic” to describe your style, this could be one for you. There are plenty of options, so you can go big or small. You’ve likely already got key pieces in your wardrobe you can use, but a new floral blouse or a sheep-embellished jumper would be on trend.
What to watch out for
Supermarkets and fast fashion houses will churn out low-quality items to feed this trend, and you’ll tire of them quickly. Look at what you already have first, and if you do buy, consider an investment that will work for you long term. Vintage pieces will serve you well and won’t look fashion-led, giving you a style that lasts. (Jumper from Wolf and Badger)
Choosing what works for you
You don’t need any of these trends, and you certainly don’t need all of them. Pick the one that matches your style, start with what’s already in your wardrobe, and add one considered piece only if it earns its place.
Get in touch if you’d like help editing your wardrobe to find your unique style.