Think class, think glamour, think opulence, heritage and drama. Fashion for autumn/winter is a heady mix of these elements – and most of it is surprisingly wearable and flattering. Stephanie Smith selects six key looks that translate from catwalk to High Street.
TOMATO REDPulsating, glossy tomato red rocked the international catwalks in juicy statement pieces from full-on ruffled gowns to natty skirt suits. Invest in a red ruffled blouse for daywear but for night-time, look out for sparkling mini dresses in scarlet metallics, beading and decadent paillettes (giant glossy sequins). Try teaming tomato red with nudes shades, although the chicest pairing for autumn is tomato red and glossy jet black. Tomato red accessories make for an instant season update.
TUNICSTeal fluted sleeved satin tunic, £45, from Principles
Super-stylish, flattering and wearable for all ages, the tunic-and-trousers look was championed on the catwalks by Burberry and Just Cavalli. Think structured, body-skimming mini-dresses over tailored trousers (cropped, flared, skinny – choose to suit the tunic and your shape), in gorgeous luxe materials. Keep the colour palette simple in rich toning colours, keep the tunic above mid-thigh and belt if a more defined shape is needed. Layer on top with furs and plaids.
BLACK LOOKSBlack lace dress, £60, Wallis.
Gothic glamour sets the darkest mood with layered lace separates and dresses and soft goth looks with high necks, to-the-floor hemlines, ruffles and chiffon layering. The little black dress is back – body-con, one-shoulder and strapless versions. Patent black is huge for accessories and there's lots of black leather – look out for knee-high boots, ankle boots and stilettos.
STATEMENT COATSThree-quarter length shawl coat, £499, Hobbs.
Sculptural silhouettes and rich, luxe fabrics combine with concealed fastenings (sometimes collarless, too) for a sleek but dramatic look that oozes high glamour for autumn. White and cream coats in cashmere provide a key statement look, while satins and furs bring elegance and an air of decadence. Look out for artistic folds and furls at the neckline and across the body and lots of decorative detail. Volume is still key, with belts often serving to rein in the silhouette.
TATRANS AND CHECKSBrown check tweed coat, £90, Next.
Plaids, checks and tartans are given new life with inspired, vivid colours – look out for violet, turquoise, emerald and orange. The mid-thigh mini-kilt is a key piece for autumn, so team with coloured tights, flat and ankle boots, extravagant knits, leather and tweedy jackets for an eclectic and eccentric very British look. Don't be afraid to mix and match tartans and check of different colours and sizes. There are plenty of tartan accessories too, to add a flash of the old plaid appeal.
HERITAGE FOLKBlack shaggy cardigan, £50, Evans
Borrowing heavily from the traditional British country style as always worn by the Queen, this look teams military detailing and tailoring with looser, softer styles, heavier wools and tweeds with silks and chiffons and, of course, knitwear. Mix in too with folksy-style smocking and embroidery – try a knitted or embroidered tunic with tweed coat thrown over and leggings or long leather boots. Or go all prim and proper with gloves, headscarf and handbag.
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