Six fashion trends to keep an eye out for this fall/winter
Sharon Chou peaks into the fashion trends hitting the streets in the Northern Hemisphere this winter.
Fashion is back in a big way this season. Trends such as nostalgia, expression of vibrancy and embracing the maximalist aesthetic are all in. Whilst students in Australia are enjoying the warmer weather, those of us studying from the Northern Hemisphere are looking to rug up. Usually, this colder weather means dark coloured fashion, but this season, we can see that more is more and that fashion should be fun - and I’m not mad about it. Whether you search through what you’ve already got, head out thrift shopping or borrow from friends, here’s a guide to the fall and winter fashion trends to get you started.
1-Tailored on tailor
Although we were all still wearing work clothes whilst working remotely, many of us have still been guilty of wearing sweatpants and slippers. Now that we’re heading back to the office, try some tailored pieces when getting back into your formal attire. Perfect for the return to work, especially with the increasing focus on women’s empowerment in fashion. We need only look to Saweetie for inspiration here.
Start with a mens-wear inspired coat or blazer in the same hue to stay on trend. Pairing suits of the same colour creates an elevated look. Also, you can play with layering by adding a blouse or a vest. In the picture, I am wearing leather, and it is a great choice if you want to look sophisticated and stylish.
2-Floral Prints
Floral prints are usually associated with spring and summer trends as the famous line in The Devil Wears Prada goes.
Whilst florals are never out of fashion, they rarely feature in the cooler months. But now is your time to dig up the floral pieces in the back of your wardrobe because they’re making a wintery comeback. The return of florals is a continuation of the #cottagecore movement from 2020 summer, with a massive focus on pastoral simplicity. Florals have been used in many ways in the past but if wearing vibrant coloured floral prints from head to toe is too much for you, try a buttoned-up shirt with larger floral prints in a darker colour and pair it with a single colour denim pants. Alternatively, just go all out like the icon Paris Hilton.
3-Knits
With the world reopening, winter activities are becoming popular again. And of course, this wouldn’t be a fashion fall/winter fashion guide without a category dedicated to knitwear. Knit items keep you warm and comfy during the winter both outdoors and indoors and they always assure an effortlessly cool look for the season.
Previously, whilst the fashion industry may have encouraged baggy and oversized looks, activists and body positive advocates are doing away with any expectation that they cover their bodies. Now is the time to embrace tighter clothes if that’s what you’re comfortable in! From dresses to matching sets, if you’re wearing knits, you’re doing something right. In the picture, I wore a tight green knit sweater with tight jeans. Green is also one of the major colours this season to symbolise sustainability.
4-Pop of colour
Neutrals have dominated fashion for the past few seasons, but this season, it’s different. We never really needed colour therapy in fashion, but with Covid and lockdowns, colour plays a big role in this year’s fashion with positive palettes being the prevailing theme.
This winter, energy and optimism in colour is much needed, and going forward, we will see uplifting juxtapositions between core colours and neon colours. Rather than a standout hue, we’ll be seeing lots of saturated shades. Wear one colour from head to toe for maximum impact or a mix match of colours to have some fun. In the picture, I am wearing a green knit with a magenta coat.
5-Faux Fur
With sweatpants and house shoes on heavy rotation, this year will still see an emphasis on comfy clothes. The technology behind vegan alternatives has come so far and faux fur feels just as amazing as the real thing. You’ll find faux fur jackets everywhere in almost any colour or pattern this season - as Gigi Hadid demonstrates. If a jacket is too much for you, try adding some accessories with faux fur to put a whole new spin in fashion. Comfort remains a key even post lockdown.
6-Cropped and cuts
Cropped and cuts were also big last season but with a bigger emphasis on sustainability in fashion, we’re starting to see repeat trends. This is great news for the world of environmental fashion.
Cut out tops and dresses have dominated fashion over the past few months. Whilst the trend is great for party wear as you head out into the post lockdown world, it’s equally as important in casual and home wear.
