This season’s trends are truly town and country. From punky, urban wear to royalty-inspired country clothes, this season we will all be channeling our inner princess with a touch of gothic glamour…
Country Princess
Designers take outdoor style to a new level of sophistication with tweed, tartan and argyle. Full, wool skirts in bright tartan prints, fitted tweed blazers with nipped-in waists, and printed chiffon shirts give this look a very feminine edge. Channel your inner royal and team with the ultimate country accessory – a printed head scarf!
Masculine
Mannish shapes have never been sexier as skinny tuxedo jackets, structured boyfriend blazers and tailored trousers form the basis of the modern power suit. Team with this season’s “must have” – a pretty chiffon blouse.
Military
Military remains a key trend for winter but not just in outerwear. This season’s military is inspired by Russian Hussars and folkloric prints. Think heavy braiding on coats and jackets, gold embossed buttons on knitwear, and heavy woollen skirts.
Mix and Match
Mis-matched colours and geometric patterns, oversized checks mixed with winter florals – the key to this look is to mix it up, because if it clashes, it goes!
Punk Rock
This music-influenced trend takes all the best elements of punk, rock ‘n’ roll and the swinging ‘60’s. Black leather biker jackets are mixed with tartan shirt dresses, black or grey skinny jeans are teamed with vintage rock tee’s or checked pencil skirts. This is a sexy, feminine take on the punk trend – think Amy Winehouse at her best!
Luxury
Shimmering fabrics, patent leathers, bejewelled dresses and shiny sequins make this opulent trend a luxurious way to slip into Autumn. The key to this look is to keep it simple – choose one statement piece and keep the rest of your outfit plain to really showcase your luxury item.
Russian Doll
Fabulous folkloric patterns, dirndl skirts and bohemian accessories make this a cute and cosy trend. Think oversized cardigans with peasant prints, fringing and tassels on coats and cardigans, and chiffon dresses in boho paisley prints.
‘70’s
The seventies trend continues right through the season. Flared jeans and trousers, high-wedged shoes, knitted tank tops over chiffon blouses, and bold florals are all key in this trend – a great one for curvy girls!
Print, Pattern and Colour
Black – The colour of the season as girls get gothic.Purple – Deep shades of bright purple are bang on trend and great for dark or olive skins.Red – Pillar box red is a big trend in the designer stores.Golden Yellow – Think sunny shades of gold and honey – great for pale skins!Peacock Blue – Bright shades of deep turquoise look great when paired back to back.Grey – Those who want something a little softer than black should opt for charcoal or a light heather grey.Tartans and Checks – These are the two most important prints and pattern of the season. If you want to be right on trend, invest in one statement piece in either of these prints and you’ll be a confirmed fashionista!Tweeds – Look for more modern takes on this traditional fabric such as tweeds with lurex threads or flecks of neon colours.Winter Florals – Small vintage-looking florals on dark or black backgrounds work well.Boho – Try this: paisleys and boho florals especially on chiffons.Bold Stripes – Bold two-tone stripes on basic tee’s and knitwear.Bold Geometrics – Blocks of colour, bold shapes and clashing prints are the key to this ultra modern print trend.Forestry – Woodland-inspired prints such as trees, leaves and birds herald this wonderful autumnal print trend.
Key Pieces!
Chiffon Blouse – If you only buy one item this season, make it a chiffon blouse as this forms a key element of all the major trends.Structured Blazer – A mannish-style blazer is great for any shape as long as it has structure built into it.Wide-legged Trousers – Great for slim ladies and curvy girls. However, those carrying a little weight on the thighs should go for styles that fit sleakly across the hips and thighs.Full Skirts – Pick one in a heavy wool or tartan print to look stylish. Curvy girls should avoid the dirndl skirt, and opt for a longer length, fuller skirt with a dropped waist.Leather Biker Jacket – Pretty up a tough looking jacket by wearing it over your floral dresses and chiffon shirts.Military Coats – look for heavy wool coats with military details.Shirt Dresses – Come in flannels and checks.Black Jeans – A wardrobe must have this season.Boyfriend Cardigans – Oversized cardigans and knitwear in folkloric patterns.Patent Accessories – Shoes, handbags and belts all get the shiny treatment and add a touch of luxury to a plain outfit.By Carla Leenders
