We’ve already noticed croissant bags, loose denim and statement-making shoes taking over in the past few months. And even though trends can be fickle fellows, there’s a way to tap into the zeitgeist without entirely overhauling your wardrobe – or personality.
Add a red sock to your top drawer, or invest in a three-piece suit. Opt for a pair of boots with subtle Western flair or try a bolo tie as part of your jewellery collection. Even subtle style choices can make a difference. And while you might be tempted to go into hibernation mode, slubbing around in hoodies and trackies as the temperature drops, cooler weather means layered outfits and ultimately more room to play.
Australian Fashion Week delivered plenty of inspo inside and outside the shows. These are the trends that we’re excited to try over the coming months.
Giddy up
This ain’t Texas but Beyoncé is bringing back Western chic. If you’ve been playing Cowboy Carter on repeat since it dropped, it’s time to add some country flair to your winter wardrobe. You don’t have to rock a Stetson but an obvious starting point is a pair of cowboy boots – there’s Ganni’s iconic embroidered style, of course, but RM Williams and Aere offer more subtle takes, too.
Fringing is another place to turn. Lucy Folk’s latest collection includes this vest and miniskirt, which are quite ranch-coded, whether they’re worn together or separately. The brand also offers its take on the bolo tie for a more subtle touch.
Your denim collection is another chance to buy into the vibe. Maggie Marilyn’s light blue Freddie jeans fit with wide legs finished with subtle frayed edges. Friends With Frank’s barrel-leg Emery pants offer a cleaner aesthetic.
Back in business
Blazers are basically a second skin for many of us at this point. But there’s an appetite for more buttoned-up dressing this winter, beyond your 9–5. Think of “business-core” as the more grown up version of 2010s corporate clubwear – but with less peplum hems and teetering pumps.
Try a three-piece power suit like Hyde & Stone’s chocolate wool blazer, vest and pants. Kiwi brand Harris Tapper also leans into brown hues with its Tilmens blazer and Irving trouser.
Skirt suits are also having a moment. Opt for a maxi hemline to make them feel fresh. We’re loving Friends With Frank’s Clemence blazer coat and midi skirt combo, as well as Maison Essentiele’s black Pin-Tuck maxi and matching blazer. Finish your look with a kitten heel – this pair from L’Eclisse Pour E Nolan is giving court shoe chic.
Barre essentials
Channel your inner ballerina this winter as balletcore takes centre stage. There’s no denying the return of ballet flats and we’re quite fond of the Phoebe from Nelson Made, as well as Bassike’s shimmering silver double-strap style. This wrap cardigan from Kowtow will put a little pas de bourrée in your step. Faithfull follows suit with its Baia and Alliste shirts. And there’s something about the bubble hem on the brand’s Anais maxi that immediately makes you want to pirouette – a great choice for Euro summer packing.
Anna Quan’s Juliana dress gives leotard vibes. This bodice from Paris Georgia would wear well with a tulle skirt. Meanwhile, Nagnata’s new leggings offer a more literal approach for your activewear.
Romance is reborn
The coquette aesthetic bought a flirty, girlish feel to wardrobes over the summer months. And while bows and rosettes continue to pop up in collections, there’s a more ladylike approach to romantic pieces this season. Sheer lace touches are a key part of the story – see here at Hyde & Stone, Faithfull and Anna Quan. Puffed sleeves are another telltale sign. Lovaan delivers in dress and top form.
Maggie Marilyn’s dress collection is another good spot for inspo. And Abby Potter of House of Campbell proved her place in Australia’s new fashion guard during fashion week with a flurry of feminine pieces.
Seeing red
It’s hard not to notice the surge of red at the moment. Try a crimson cardigan from Lovaan, Blanca and Francie. Opt for head-to-toe tailoring from Camilla and Marc, including a bodysuit and pumps. Or layer up in Maggie Marilyn’s pullover and shacket.
Accessories are a good place to play, too. Brie Leon has an entire red capsule on the way. Bassike’s ballet flats from above will also arrive in red soon. And Gorman’s wool socks are just the pop you need to match with loafers.
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