With the nights drawing in and a distinct chill in the air, it’s time to think about our autumn-winter wardrobes. With the new season collections hitting the shops, it’s an exciting and fruitful time to buy. Before investing in anything new though, it makes sense to take stock of what you already have in your wardrobe. That way, you can focus on filling any gaps, rather than being seduced into random, impulse purchases.
There are various key trends this season and it can be fun to try something new. Be selective about which trends you buy into though because, unless they fit with both your style personality and lifestyle, they are destined to remain unworn in your wardrobe.
Here are some of the season’s key trends, with tips on how to wear them:
Sheer

Unless you’re fearless and body confident, you will probably not want to embrace a totally sheer look but including a sheer element to your outfit can be be subtly sexy. This could be sheer sleeves, a sheer veil of fabric covering your decolletage or even a sheer panel at the bottom of a dress which allows you to show off your legs without having to go to a mini length. You may also like to consider a sheer blouse with a cami underneath to preserve your modesty. Pay attention to your undergarments if you’re embracing this trend; a nude tone is generally the best option, unless you’re looking to make a statement with your underwear.
Animal Print

Animal print has become something of a classic over recent years so it’s never out of style, but this season it’s bang on trend. Classic patterns like leopard, zebra, and snake prints are reimagined in luxurious fabrics and rich, wintery hues such as deep browns, dark greens, and golds.
You may well already have some animal print in our wardrobes; if so, now is a good time to dig it out. If you’re new to this print though, why not dip a toe in the water by trying a leopard print accessory such as a bag, scarf, or belt? It’s an easy way to update an outfit and add a bit of interest.
Roll Necks
The humble roll neck is wardrobe staple so you may well already have one or two. Fine roll necks can be layered over jumpers and under dresses to provide an extra warm layer. Roll necks look particularly good on those with longish necks and smallish busts. If you don’t fit this description but still have a hankering to wear one, break up the bust area and elongate your neck by either wearing a loosely tied scarf or a longer length necklace.
We’re also seeing lots of wool roll necks teamed with matching skirts. These co-ords can be a good investment as you can wear them together or split the top and bottom to wear with other pieces and create different looks.
Furs, Fluff & Fringes

The fluffy and furry trend brings a sense of cosy luxury and playful texture to the season. From oversized faux fur coats and plush shearling jackets to fluffy sweaters and accessories, this trend is all about warmth and tactile appeal. Available in a range of soft neutrals, rich jewel tones, and bold animal prints, these pieces add a touch of glamour and comfort to any outfit. Perfect for making a statement while staying snug, the fluffy and furry trend combines style and practicality, making it a go-to choice for the cold winter months.
Fringes add movement and texture, creating a dynamic and eye-catching look. This season, they’re appearing on everything from coats and skirts to accessories and knitwear. Long, cascading fringes in rich materials like suede, leather, and wool add a touch of bohemian flair, while shorter, metallic fringes offer a hint of glamour.
Burgundy

The standout colour of the season is BURGUNDY. Fortunately, it comes in lots of different shades and is very versatile, so it can work for just about anyone. If you have warm colouring, the reddish-brown version of burgundy will look good paired with greens, creams and browns. If you have cooler colouring though, go for a pinker tone, such as deep cassis or damson and pair it with blues, pinks and greys and black. If you have dark hair and eyes , team your burgundy with other dark colours but if have light, delicate colouring, lighten things up by combining it with light neutrals or pastels.
A burgundy belt, boots and/or bag could provide a stylish update to your wardrobe and serve you well for years to come.
Not keen on burgundy? Don’t worry, there are plenty of other colours to choose from this season: reds, greens, blues and pinks also feature heavily in the latest collections.
For examples of the key trends and where to find them, do take a look at my online catalogue.
Don’t feel you have to rush out and buy lots of new pieces though. You will likely already have some of this season’s “must-haves” in your wardrobe. Also, bear in mind that you can pick up some real bargains at charity shops and online buying/ selling platforms.
Most important of all, don’t buy anything unless you LOVE it!