Despite the balmy temperatures, the fashion world has turned its attention to winter. Catwalks are filled with overcoats, boots and scarves and preparation has begun in earnest for the season ahead. For normal people, it’s a great way to whet your appetite for what’s to come, and to figure out what to look out for on the high street – or what to start saving for now.
The past few seasons have seen a rise in normcore and athleisure. This has meant colour and pattern have been a little restrained. Next season, more is more. Embellishment, embroidery, clashing patterns and layering textures will bring outfits to life. This is an opportunity to let your hair down and your creativity run a bit wild.
This outfit from the Arnotts autumn winter show (main picture) is chic Victorian space bunny – and that's why we love it. It hits three key trends. Bright faux fur was everywhere on the catwalks from Gucci's pepto pink to Dries Van Noten's leopard print. This faux fur stole from Helen Moore is more affordable, however, at €110.
The floral blouse from Rodebjer for €320 brings lady-like Victorian glamour and the metallic pleated skirt from Tara Jarmon for €435 keeps the outfit modern. Metallic and pleats have already arrived in shops and are going nowhere. Simply update with tights, colour optional.
Another trend is puffa jackets. River Island and Topshop had great versions in lots of colours but this navy velvet one (top right) wins out. Velvet appeared again and again on high-end winter catwalks but you can get this piece in Topshop from August 29th for €90.
These Dolce and Gabbana embellished slim fit jeans (bottom right), €1,950 at Brown Thomas) are what denim dreams are made of. There will be lots of high street versions but it's hard to imagine any will beat these. They combine a variety of impressive embroidery techniques and have little sequined pink birds on palm leaves. Roll on winter.
