Time flies when you’re having fun. With March now here, it’s time to get serious about dressing again. While summer is somewhat easy and forgiving in that it allows for a dress or singlet and shorts to be ‘thrown on’, as the weather turns autumnal it requires more thought to be put into how you leave the house.
With that in mind and, having the advantage of living in the future when it comes to fashion – the northern hemisphere is two seasons ahead and showing no signs of being shorts weather soon – here is a wrap-up of the top trends you can expect this year.
Colours
Navy is still having a major moment – no surprises there as what’s not to love about it. Red is the accent colour of choice contrasting well against more muted tones such as nude, grey and white. Pastels also have a definite place – think baby blue, pink and purple – these are a great way to ease into autumn before embracing the richer jewel toned palate of emerald greens, burgundy, and metallic gold and silver. Another, perhaps more unexpected, colour that is picked to be the next big thing is bright pink. Wear with, wait for it, red – yes, we are being serious – you’d be surprised how well they actually work together.
Texture
Fabric is anything but boring. Mesh is all the rage this year, seen everywhere from sheer tops and dresses to panelling in gym tights. If you don’t want to dare to bare it all, consider using mesh as a layer piece with a slip or singlet underneath. Lace adds a romantic twist to otherwise bold ensembles featuring an abundance of velvet, while pleats are back on the agenda – a midi pleated skirt will become a fast staple in your wardrobe this year. Winter will be all about quality over quantity; so take the time to invest in cashmere, merino wool and mohair which will go far further when it comes to keeping you warm.
Styles
Denim is showing no signs of losing its popularity, with dresses and skirts in the favoured fabric both making a resurgence. Jeans have gone back to the mum-style, high waisted and a looser fit, with straight and bootleg styles also popular. You can’t go wrong with tailored attire either, whether it’s shirts, pants or jackets, this classic style is going nowhere. Necklines are either turtleneck high or off the shoulder low, with skirts hitting mini or midi lengths and boots still wanting to stay firmly over the knee. In more good news, athleisure is here to stay, so carry on dressing up your gym tights for brunch and coffee outings.
Patterns
Ever-reliable stripes are here to stay (thank goodness). Florals remain ground-breaking for spring – and every other season. Expect autumn and winter to bring the usual influx of leopard and other animal print as well. And, if you’re a fan of Chanel-like tweed (who isn’t?) you’re in luck as high-street fashion goes high end, picking up on the look for tops, skirts and jackets. An abundance of embroidery highlights that this year is all about the detail when it comes to compiling an outfit – the wittier and more cleverly clashing, the better.
Shoes
One word: mules. Also, sneakers, platforms, loafers, block heels, mid heels, court shoes, embroidered boots, over-the-knee boots, metallic shoes, the list goes on. Two styles I still draw the line at include kitten heels – they look out of proportion and mid is low enough, as for heels or shoes with fur on them – did a small innocent animal die and get stuck to your foot?
So what should you buy for autumn/winter? Here’s a not-so-basic list:
Jackets/jumpers
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Navy coat
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Cashmere or mohair jumper
Tops
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Turtleneck
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Statement-sleeve top
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Lace top
Bottoms
- Midi-length pleated skirt
- Ankle-length culottes
- Tailored black pants
Dresses
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Slip dress
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Tweed, lace or velvet dress
Shoes
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Backless mules or loafers
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Embroidered boots
What trend are you most excited to embrace for 2017? Or are you scarred for life when it comes to some of them?
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