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No sooner had summer finally arrived, and we turned our attention to Autumn Winter. Between-season dressing has almost become a season in its own right and the ‘buy now wear now’ approach has never been more popular. We’ve analysed information from a variety of sources to bring you the key Autumn Winter 2013 trends to help with your own transition into the new season…..
Fall for new season print!
Pattern goes back to basics so ditch digitised, over-the-top prints in favour of leopard, plaid, pinstripe and houndstooth.
How to wear…animal prints
Animal print can be challenging and there’s a fine line between Kate Moss chic and Bet Lynch cheap. However, worn the right way animal print can have stunning results. Avoid wearing animal print in bright colours; say no to lime green or hot pink zebra stripes and stick to neutral colours. Wear one animal print piece at a time and use it sparingly. Keep the rest of the outfit simple; pairing animal print with plain black or white is often the most effective. If you’re tall and slim you can wear larger prints, and look for classic, well-structured pieces. But if wearing animal print on large items [such as a coat or dress] is overwhelming, embrace the trend through accessories – scarves, handbags and shoes with an animal print can be a great way to liven up a plain outfit.
50 shades of…
..green (from emerald to army), pink (from dusky to bubble-gum) and true red were seen all over the AW13 catwalks, and of course the simple but effective ‘winter white’ remains a firm fashion favourite.
How to wear…winter white
Let’s be honest, white is just not practical especially in the Winter months. But whereas white is worn in a more casual (one-layer only) way over Spring Summer, in the Winter it can have purpose and structure; you can layer beige and cream and ecru and stark white, to create a complimentary frothy palette, whilst also mixing patterns (white based tweed or cable knit) and/or texture (mohair and lace). And who can resist the most festive of sparkly finishes by throwing silver, metallic and shine into the mix.
Middles ages
A revamped (and infinitely more modern) medieval influence mixes Gothic edge with glamour and elegance – think tunic and capes, plenty of velvet, split sleeves and a healthy dose of embellishment and gold!
How to wear…tunics
If you’re under 5ft 4, make sure your tunic stops just below the hip. If you’re taller then your tunic can stop mid-thigh. Either way try and avoid larger sizes or it’ll add excess bulk and make you look like a pitched tent. The on-trend tunic for AW13 is a closer fitting modified version.
Punks to pinks
Refined yet rebellious, release your inner-Pretty Woman this season with over-the-knee boots, split skirts, leather and PVC.
How to wear… leather
For the last few seasons leather has held its own and AW13 is no exception. Loved for its versatility, you just can’t get better for a sophisticated day-to-night look, this season leather is luxurious, sleek yet edgy. Think outside the box and explore full skirts, coats, tops, gloves, big belts, suits and dresses. And this season it’s colour all the way this season, from intensive red to the understated elegance of nude and tan.
Autumn coating
From statement capes and volume, to bold colours and over-the-top style, anything goes with outerwear this season.
How to wear…capes
Capes are easy to wear, cosy and comfortable. They give an impressive chic silhouette when teamed with skinny jeans, dresses and boots, and they provide instant vamp when worn over an evening dress. This season the best kind of cape is sharp and tailored, especially when paired with a lady-like clutch. Capes have a flare for the dramatic so be bold with your choice of colour or lining, and do think about length; long equals warm and cosy, but a shorter version might be better if you tend to carry a lot in your hands (if shoulder bags are an issue then look for a cape with pockets). Don’t be afraid to cinch in your cape with a wide belt, it will define your waist giving you an hourglass silhouette while adding definition.
Images
Wool Angora Cocoon Funnel Neck Coat £375, Silk Cheetah Print Tunic Dress £250 – all Jaeger
Gwen Coat £329, Ella Top £69, Gwen Skirt £119, Florence Boots £249 – all Hobbs London
Laser Butterfly Dress £29, Arrow Necklace £25, Arrow Bangle £19 – all Hobbs NW3
