Redundant summer wardrobe on your hands? Fling those unworn flimsy tops and bikinis to the back of your closet, it’s time to embrace the one wardrobe season you’re guaranteed to get wear out of – autumn/winter.
It’s not often we celebrate the end of summer, but with dark nights setting in, fashionistas are kicking their over-knee boot heels together with glee.
Brighten those gloomy autumnal days ahead with some new additions to your wardrobe. Autumn/winter 08’s key catwalk looks provide all the fashion inspiration you need for a seasonal shopping spree.
Vintage folk
As seen at Gucci, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, DKNY
Boho? In winter? Welcome to the reinvented nu-Boho with all the folkish charm seen from previous summers but with a darker edge.
Paisley prints are the way forward and gilets are back from the fashion beyond, but brand new updates for the look include fringing and faux fur.
Pick out fiery autumnal colours like red, orange and yellow on a black background.
Catwalk style tip: If you’re not smiling about the hippy chic smock comeback, keep that waist cinched in with a bright skinny belt, as seen at Dolce & Gabbana.
Eccentric heritage
As seen at Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith
Who knew Queen Elizabeth would be our style inspiration for winter? Think headscarves, riding hats, clashing tartans and tweed.
The fashion world takes its inspiration from country pursuits with a bonkers twist.
Head for the traditional prim-and-proper heritage look with a muted colour palette or punk it up with vivid plaids like purple and green to give the trend a youthful injection.
Catwalk style tip: The thought of donning a silk headscarf might send some running for the country hills. Instead, tie around your neck for a more wearable look.
Gothic romance
As seen at Prada, Givenchy, Alexander McQueen
It’s dark, it’s moody, but distinctly feminine. Lashing of lace and sheer chiffon layers make up this soft goth look.
For added drama, designers used Victoriana-inspired high necks and maxi long lengths.
Top-to-toe black, black, black is key, without even a hint of an accent colour. Keep accessories to a minimum and let the decorative detailing do all the talking.
Catwalk style tip: Get the most from your dark romantic look. Black dresses can be worn for daytime too, pared-down with a contrast colour polo neck or shirt underneath, as seen at Prada.
Mean business
As seen at Paul Smith, Jens Laugesen, Todd Lynn, Alexander Wang
1980s power dressing has got nothing on this season’s tailoring. Look for lean, mean suiting with shoulder pads, crisp shirts and masculine edges like bow ties and tux lapels.
This season, your wardrobe just isn’t going to cut it without a structured jacket.
To continue your sharp silhouette, opt for a figure-hugging pencil skirt or razor sharp cut trousers in super-baggy or skinny cropped fit.
Catwalk style tip: If you’re working an unusual or angular shaped jacket, keep your lower half chic but simple.