In this strangest of years, you would undoubtedly be pardoned for forgetting we have just entered a new fashion season. Back in March when fashion teams and buyers packed onto the benches of Paris Fashion Week for the closure of 2020’s autumn/winter presentations, coronavirus was but a conversation. Very few could have predicted the scale of events that were to follow – nor predicted the ways in which 2020 has left the weaknesses of the fashion industry exposed.
In addition to this, since the A/W collections were presented, the way we all get dressed has changed significantly. As we’re all spending considerably more time at home, many of us are prioritising comfort and ease when getting dressed each morning. We have witnessed the rise of all-day-long pyjamas, cosy knitwear and clashing colours – no one’s looking, right? However, this is balanced with an increasing desire to return to our normal wardrobe routines and start getting dressed properly. After all, the regularly uttered motto of 2020’s fashion goings-on is ‘getting dressed with nowhere to go’.
If we are to focus purely on the few positives that an extended period of isolation can bring, we can’t not mention the collective reminder of fashion’s transformative power. Your productivity can increase with the rediscovery of your favourite denim, your day can be given structure with the poise of balloon sleeves, and above all else, happiness can spring from the injection of something bright and colourful. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the biggest trends we will be seeing this season.
XXL Outerwear.
Many buyers and consumers alike have suitably opted to invest most heavily in classic outerwear for the upcoming season – the most important element of autumn dressing, particularly during a time where comfort and warmth are on top of many people’s priority lists. On the runways we saw XXL coats, trench coats, shearling coats and floor-length leather coats, all oozing with wearability. The readiness of us all to waste no time in investing in our new season coats reiterates that in times of uncertainty, many of us lean towards basics and seasonal staples.
This beautiful Bottega Veneta floor-length nut-brown Leather Trench Coat jumped out to us. But if your budget doesn’t stretch this far, try this & Other Stories Belted Voluminous Wool Coat, or this Topshop Bright Blue PU Trench.
Daytime Red.
The aforementioned ‘injection of something bright’ comes in the form of something – anything – red. Afterall, at its best, fashion can decorate your day. Unapologetic and bold, the fiery hue will certainly get you noticed this season. After all, we have spent enough time hidden!
Take a look at this Valentino Techno Felt Coat.
The Cardigan Rebirth.
I think it would be fair to proclaim that no influencer, trendsetter or fashion-enthusiast has escaped the magnetic pull of the old-fashioned cardigan these past colder weeks. In every colour, length and style of knit, the librarian favourite is back and ready to demand space in all of our wardrobes.
This COS Colour-Block Wool Cardigan is a must-have.
Ballooning About.
When we started to see puffed-up sleeves appearing in 2018, we couldn’t have predicated the staying power it would have. More than just a fleeting trend, the larger-than-life balloon sleeve is back this season to add ever-more drama to an already drama-filled year. This autumn we are seeing Victorian-inspired shirts, jumpers, dresses and coats, all with enough wingspan to insure we are adhering to social distancing.
This Balmain Pussy-Bow Gathered Silk Blouse is perfect, and for something more casual try this & Other Stories Smock Puff Sleeve Top.
Get-Working Gingham.
The spotlight once again falls on ginghams, tartans, houndstooths and checks as many of us start thinking about our return to the office. Shameless and bold, these patterns demand to be clashed – the more clashing, the better! The runway was filled with these elegant displays of check, but the Highstreet has a wealth of options available too.
It would be a sin to mention check without the mention of Burberry – try this Check Wool Oversized Tailored Jacket.
Evening Tassels.
Feminine and extravagant, the tasselled trim has been re-introduced this season, offering up the style to more than just the boho crowd. Now we are seeing chic office skirts, ebullient evening coats, outlandish gowns and everything in-between, all primed to add some much-needed glamour into these fast-approaching Christmas months.
Take a look at this Prada Dress with fringe and trim.
