These are strange times we are living in, and when our world and how we live changes, so does fashion. The fashion industry has always reacted and reflected the times we live in. Now more than ever we have seen a shift to relaxed casual wear as a response to working from home. During lockdown I was truly caught out, with little casual wear in my arsenal but I have that box well and truly ticked now but there are only so many runners and leggings you can own! As fashion magazines hit the stands, influencer’s and bloggers flood social media with all the latest looks, “What is the new direction of fashion?”
The new mood for Autumn is comfort with style. We are moving the dial to smarter dressing but with a relaxed feel. Think baggy trousers, boxy jackets, long skirts all topped off with feminine blouses and knits to die for. It is so important to keep our spirits up and what better way to do that than with these key fashion trends to update our wardrobes.
Knitwear, everyone loves the ease and speed of wearing them and were featured at all the key “Fashion Week” Shows last Spring just before lockdown. This season’s super fine lightweight wools and cashmeres were styled with jeans, suits and skirts. Wearing knits over long skirts and boots started last year and is now a cool mainstream look, think Victoria Beckham, style and comfort all wrapped up in one great look. What is not to like? These ideal transitional knits, jumpers, cardigans and tank tops are making a huge comeback as part of the 70s vibe but more chic, than the 1st time round. These neat fitting knits long and short, add a pop of colour and sophistication to the simplest outfits in your wardrobe.
Checks are the season’s big statement from dresses to suiting and everything in between. Head to toe is the way to go so fit and proportion are key to pull off this fun and vibrant look. Counteract these strong bold checks with soft romantic pussy bow blouses which continue in popularity again this Autumn. Long boots are huge this year and a must have for an easy, contemporary confident look. If head to toe check isn’t for you, go for a traditional look by picking an element of the look, say a check jacket and pair with a plain tailored trousers or jeans. The combinations are endless you decide what fits your lifestyle.
Leather for me this season is the most exciting trend because we are not just talking leather jackets but leather pants, leather skirts, leather tops and leather dresses. The shapes are form fitting and belted. The colours range from toffee/caramel tones to red/wine and black. Head to toe leather is a difficult look to pull off so I would be suggesting picking your favourite piece and styling with attitude! Rich jewel coloured soft flowing blouses are the perfect compliment. As we know leather is expensive so the option might be pleather. When choosing a pant or skirt especially, it should be soft and fluid with a little weight to give good drape and for it to hang well. It’s all in the detail! What is the new direction of fashion?
Mini trends;
Gold Jewellery or no jewellery! Think chunky links.
Belts worn over suits, jackets and dresses. Your choice.
Large bold collars on blouses either round and scalloped or long and pointy worn out over jumpers and jackets.
Footwear, in keeping with the spirit of comfort with style think chunky block heels for both your shoes and boots and you won’t put a foot wrong!
Tip; If you’re not a follower of fashion but want to remain relevant you can reflect the latest looks through your accessory choices for a quick update.
As a stylist I always want to maximise what is already in my wardrobe, so my wish list is a fab knit to give life to my trouser suits, a new pair of ¾ length boots with a block heel for under my cropped jeans and a wow blouse. What is yours????
The catwalk imagery used, is to inspire, push the boundaries, provoke and excite … ENJOY

