Greetings!
I am no slave to fashion and I believe that we should wear what suits our shape, colouring and style personality whether it’s ‘on trend’ or not. However, a little nod to what’s cool right now never goes amiss if it enhances what you already have and makes you feel great. Since starting work as a personal stylist and in a 100% ethically sourced boutique, I've acquired a greater understanding and respect for buying sustainably and investing in quality. I also firmly believe you should buy pieces to compliment your existing wardrobe to get value for money, especially during these challenging times. These are just a few of the season's trends and I've linked some pieces I like from a variety of sources so- here’s what’s vibing for A/W 2022 and will lead you nicely into 2023 too...enjoy!
90’s minimalism
This is great news! Back to what we know, It's all plain skirts, even plainer vests, simple low-slung trousers and jeans and allegedly not a scrap of makeup is very 'now', well ok, maybe a smidge of mascara! The plain white vest is all you need…I know, how simple is that! Pair with baggy low slung jeans (also trending atm) with kicks, mini skirt with stomper boots and a chunky cardigan or biker and you are done! Also great with something more soft and swishy like a plain silky slip skirt or a sequin mini if you want to dress it up.
The Biker
We all need (ok, want!) a beautiful, butter soft biker jacket in our ‘robe and now’s the time to invest if you haven’t already, or get it out and chuck it over everything if you have. This could be a summer leftover pretty prairie dress that needs toughening up, or a pair of wide leg tailored trousers and a white/coloured vest and trainers or simply your favourite jeans with a striped Breton under. Done.
Bomber/moto jacket
Oversized is the key here. Whether it’s varsity (think Mean Girls) or leather sheepskin lined, go big or go home! Wear over pretty midi length skirts or dresses or with low faded denims or a festive sequin mini dress. The trick here is to wear with something relatively structured, pencil knit maxi skirt, tailored trousers or good old black leggings and chunky boots - well sexy!
Brights
AW 22/ spring 23 are looking bright. There’s lots of colour out there, especially pink so get your hands on something that makes you feel happy. Seen everywhere on the runways, pink is now a wardrobe staple, the brighter the better. And there’s always a shade for everyone so don’t worry about it suiting you, it will! And if you can't do that much saccharine, head for the myriad of other gorgeous rainbow hues flooding the shops atm. And you don't need a whole new outfit to nail this trend, just add a fabulous scarf to whatever coat you've already got and that's all you'll need to lift your mood and your look in a jiffy!
Bohemian scene
Dreams of exotic places, homespun craft and wearing your nana's hand-me-downs are all very now. Earthy colours, soft textures and organic haphazard patterns all make this a timeless look that outlives trends because it will usually mean well made, quality and off beat at the same time. Think oversized aran sweaters, aztec print cardigans over jeans or maxi skirts and you’re there!
Cosy knits
It’s as if designers knew we would be facing rising energy costs this winter because the AW runways were awash with swathes of wool! From chunky Aran and Fair Isle knits to retakes on the timeless Chanel twin sets, whatever your preference, cardigans, sweater dresses, blankets, two-pieces and statement sweaters in touch-me textures are everywhere.
The Maxi is back-hurrah!
From one extreme to the other…after miniskirts dominated the spring catwalks, lengths fell to the floor for autumn. Body-swamping maxi coats, many in dressing-gown styles and faux-fur fabrics, are everywhere but it’s floor-sweeping maxi skirts and dresses that are so welcome right now. Layer with different lengths over or under for a stylish understated look that suits a Sunday pub lunch as much as it does Saturday night out out.
Every day Leather
Whether you simply don your biker with jeans, pleated skirt or mini, leather is back and it brings a swagger to your look that feigns confidence whenever you need it most. From sexy pencils to pleated beige skirts or a really well fitting pair of trousers, go bold with leather this winter and you will rock! I always choose a contrasting texture with leather to soften the look and it can also look pretty edgy. Have fun!
Sparkles aren’t just for Christmas
And finally, its glitter a go-go from hereon in babes! Sequins and metallics are everywhere for both day and evening wear for this season. After the horrendous year(s) we have all had, there's never been a better time to get the sparkles out and go for it! It’s time to dress down the diamanté’s, rather than saving them for best as sequins become day-wear. Get your twinkle on and have some fun this A/W; and mark my words they’ll never go out of style so invest in a sequin shirt in cream, black or silver and wear for years to come with jeans, tailored trews or a sexy leather skirt, always classic, always classy!
I hope you found some inspiration for your autumn/winter 'robe that'll also point you in the right direction for Spring '23. If you've lost your style mojo and need a helping hand to get you in the mood for Christmas and beyond, or a general wardrobe overhaul, don't hesitate to get in touch below for more information; I'd be delighted to help you find your own unique personal look for all occasions.