I hate to break it to you while you’re still (hopefully) sipping rosé in the garden but, much like those folks in Game of Thrones say, winter is coming. The good news is, that means lots of lovely new items are hitting the shops right about now. And it would be a real shame if some of those didn’t make their way into your wardrobe, wouldn’t it?
This Autumn/Winter season there’s loads of great trends to embrace, from 70s-inspired styling to sleeves that would make Mr Darcy envious. Here I’ve rounded up some of the biggest looks you’ll be spotting and sporting over the coming months…
VIBRANT VIOLET
This season sees lots of colour come into play, from emerald greens to bright berry hues. This year purple is making a comeback, and you’ll see everything from knitwear and bags to tights and shoes in shades ranging from subtle lilac to pretty plum. The great thing about purple is it works with so many colours – blues, blacks, greys, greens, even reds and pinks
Pure Collection Gassato ribbed boat neck sweater, £120 www.purecollection.com
CHECKING IN
From houndstooth to tartan, checks are big news – forget animal print, this is what you’ll want to invest in. With lots of checks coming in neutral shades like black, white and grey, it’s a great print to add to existing looks – just team with jeans, plain tops or skirts and dresses. Accessories like scarves, belts and headbands are worth grabbing hold of to instantly jazz up an outfit. Or, you could go all out with a checked coat
Jigsaw Heritage maxi coat, £299 www.jigsaw-online.com
DRAMATIC SLEEVES
They wouldn’t look out of place in a period drama, but puff-sleeve blouses with pussy bows are all the rage this season, and the more voluminous the better when it comes to the sleeve size! 70s style is big this season so don’t be afraid to team with flares for maximum impact, or pair with skinny jeans. You could also make summer slip dresses work harder for you by layering a blouse underneath.
Hobbs Beatrice top, £159 www.hobbs.co.uk
70s FLARE
If there’s one trend that’s inescapable this season, it’s the 70s renaissance. That’s right, flare, sequinned platforms and corduroy are back and we can’t get enough of it (but not brown wallpaper thanks). The key is balance – unless you’re going to a themed party you may not want to dress head-to-toe in 70s attire, so wear flares with simple tops like plain t-shirts and jumpers, or pair retro-inspired knitwear with a satin midi skirt or skinny jeans to update the look.
Whistles Limited Edition corduroy jumpsuit, £199 www.whistles.com
CHUNKY BOOTS
Biker boots have been having their day for a while but now they’ve got friends to join them. The rule is: the bigger the better. Remember those Kickers boots you had at school? Yep, they (and many others like them) are back. Toughen up winter floral midi dresses, team with jeans or even rock them with a mini skirt and black tights. When the colder days arrive you’ll be glad you invested in a pair
Office Ansel boots, £89 www.office.co.uk
STUDIOUS SATCHELS
Evoke that back-to-school feeling with a stylish satchel. They’re everywhere this season due to their practicality and structure – but don’t be fooled by thinking back to your school days. Oh no, this season’s satchels are smaller, brighter and altogether cooler than the ones you used to keep your textbooks in.
Mulberry Keeley silky calf leather colour block satchel bag, £1,095 www.mulberry.com
Follow Charlie @Girlaboutkent