The 9 big fashion trends for autumn
From investment pieces to colour-pop tailoring
Autumn/winter 2022 is here bringing with it a season of colour and upbeat takes on the classics.
Leading the way are autumn’s go-to looks: classic trenches and oversize blazers are leading a smart new tailored finish, colour is huge and accessories are show-stopping and fun – discover the nine essential trends for this season with Royal Victoria Place’s eclectic mix of stores from Fenwick (with brands including Eileen Fisher, Ted Baker and Kate Spade), Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Superdry, Monsoon, Next and Oliver Bonas to Office,Accessorize, Claire’s, Pandora, Ernest Jones, Burrells, Claybrooks and Toulson Jones.
1. The autumn coat
Image provided by Ted Baker
The coat is always an autumn staple but this year they’re a little more slouchy, a little more detailed (embroidery is a huge trend for the season) and a lot more tactile. For the transition between late summer and early autumn, a tweed-style oversize blazer or classic trench won’t let you down and its iconic design – defined lapels and belted – has also been translated into woollen styles for a beautiful tailored look. For an investment piece, book a personal shopping experience at Fenwick Tunbridge Wells.
Head to:
Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Monsoon, Next and Oliver Bonas.
2. Chunky boots, loafers and ballet flats
Image provided by Oliver Bonas
Go practical this season: while chunky boots are everywhere if heavy lace-ups aren’t your thing then the new style of loafers inspired by them are the perfect crossover look to wear with crop trousers and suits. Dainty ballet flats and Mary-Jane straps have also made a welcome return for the new season while sneakers are retro, big on the soles and statement-making.
Head to:
Office, Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection and Next.
3. Cargo trousers
Image provided by M&S
This season sees the return of cargo trousers. From practical cotton and denim in khaki and black and denim to elegant jewel-coloured silk, cargos are going to be everywhere this season and the perfect mix of fresh and practical. Pair with an understated pristine white top and statement jewellery.
Head to:
Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Next, Gas Station and Renaissance.
4. Statement tops and dresses
Image provided by Oliver Bonas
Accentuated shoulders, bold colours, lace, stripe, midriff-baring and asymmetrical, up-top statement dressing is a major look for autumn while the maxi dress that has dominated over the past few seasons has a slightly more sophisticated update in beautiful materials and more defined silhouettes.
Head to:
Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Monsoon, Next, Oliver Bonas and Renaissance.
5. Colour pops
Image provided by French Connection
From fuchsia pink to leaf green, dramatic colour is cutting through all of the biggest looks. There’s also cobalt blue, lilac, neons of all hues and burgundy all pepping up this season’s monochrome short suits, maxi dresses and woollen coats. The best thing is you just need to add one statement colour to your existing wardrobe and you’re good to go.
Head to:
Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Monsoon, Next, Oliver Bonas, Gas Station and Renaissance.
6. The puffer jacket
Image provided by Hobbs
Whether you’re going full on colour (think lilac, sage green or primary) or for a slightly subtler take, the puffer jacket will not let you down. A huge street style favourite at the Copenhagen and New York fashion weeks (where they know it’s going to be freezing), the secret of a good puffer is finding the perfect length for you then pairing it with smart athleisure and trainers or tailored trousers and shirts. Fortunately, they’re everywhere this season so you’ll easily find your ideal match.
Head to: Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Monsoon, Next, Oliver Bonas, Gas Station and Renaissance.
7. Autumn knits
Image provided by M&S
While the chunky autumn knit (brilliant paired with silk skirts) remains a perennial fashion investment, this season’s knitwear is coming in many forms: midi dresses, crop tops, bold and colourful embroidered cardigans, textured lightweight jumpers with the rollneck being a real favourite worn with crop jeans and this season’s pjacket.
Head to: Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Monsoon, Next and Oliver Bonas.
8. Autumn accessories and bags
Image provided by Accessorize
Get ready to layer up your arms as bold stacks of bangles take centre stage this autumn – the bigger and more dramatic the better. Standouts watches also look incredible with this look. When it comes to bags – it’s all about embellishment with chunky chains, beads, pearls and metallic finishes livening up the looks. Hats are also getting an upgrade with oversized, textured looks complemented with statement gloves that offset your autumn coat. Put simply: subtle isn’t going to cut it this season.
Head to:
Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Superdry, Monsoon, Next, Oliver Bonas, Accessorize, Claire’s, Pandora, Ernest Jones, Burrells, Claybrooks and Toulson Jones.
9. Go-to jeans
Image provided by French Connection
Straight-crop, puddle, flare, barrel-shaped and side-sliced. There’s a whole move away from the skinny cut of yesteryear with more voluptuous cuts of denim taking over. If you want something that’s a bit neater, the midrise crop paired with high sneakers is your friend especially in white, khaki and burgundy.
Head to:
Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, French Connection, Monsoon, Next, Gas Station and Renaissance.
Get all the autumn feels while you shop
Image provided by Costa
Make it seasonal with Maple Hazel lattes at Caffe Nero and Hotel Chocolat or give your interiors an autumnal spin with incredible candles, centrepieces and cosy throws and cushions from Paperchase, L’Occitane, Collingwood Batchellor, The Body Shop, Boots, Lush, Fenwick, Marks & Spencer and Next.
Discover the best places to eat, drink and shop at Royal Victoria Place here and follow us @Royal_Shopper
