As autumn kicks in, the Fall Winter 2024 fashion trends are serving up style inspiration that's both classic and fresh. We’re talking leopard prints as neutrals, scarf jackets for easy layering, and a boho chic back with a modern twist. Burgundy accessories are the must-have for a pop of seasonal colour, while textured coats and metallic details add that extra edge. Ready to transition your wardrobe for the colder months? Let’s break down the key trends straight from the runways!
Leopard Print
L-R Michael Kors & Dior
This autumn, there's no need to book a safari to experience wildlife – leopard print is back and making a serious statement this season. Previously a staple, it’s been reimagined to add sophistication to wardrobes everywhere. Marni, Versace, and Alexander McQueen’s debut under Seán McGirr gave us leopards in the form of swing dresses, tailored suits, and sleek coats. This season, leopard acts as a bold yet surprisingly versatile neutral you can wear in numerous ways: think a leopard coat paired with tan trousers or a skirt and a leather jacket for a hint of edge. For the daring, a full animal-print look adds a modern touch to any ensemble.
New Suiting
If you’re a fan of vintage, this season’s suiting trend is a dream come true. Designers like Altuzarra and The Row channelled classic styles from the past, with the Olsen twins famously enforcing a no-social-media policy to focus purely on the clothes. The spotlight of this trend is the skirt suit – particularly, a fitted pencil skirt paired with an oversized, single-button blazer. This look is remarkably versatile; you can dress it up with pumps or go casual with Mary Janes and a colourful scarf. It’s all about balancing the tailored elegance of vintage with contemporary flair, making it perfect for both office hours and off-duty outings.
Scarf Jackets
Layering has never looked so effortless. One of this season’s star outerwear pieces is the coat with a built-in scarf – a chic answer to unpredictable autumn weather. Toteme was among the first to popularise this trend, and their longer versions this year are making waves. Designers have embraced warm, latte-toned hues, creating these stylish coats that go with everything from jeans to leather trousers. With the scarf element included, these coats make layering foolproof, giving a polished look without needing extra accessories. This season, scarf jackets are your shortcut to sophisticated, cosy outerwear.
Boho Chic
Boho is back, but with a refresh that brings it firmly into 2024. Designer Chemena Kamali’s debut collection for Chloé encapsulated this trend, highlighting crochet, fringe, and ruffles, all with a modern twist. This updated bohemian style is elegant, featuring softer colours and refined textures that steer clear of the 2014 boho craze. Instead, expect luxurious materials, subtle statement jewellery, and artisan-inspired details. Pair flowing dresses with leather belts and clogs or throw on a fringed jacket over jeans. It’s a look that feels both nostalgic and entirely fresh.
Burgundy
The rich hue of burgundy has taken accessories by storm this season. Transitioning from summer’s lighter reds to deeper shades of berry, coffee, and chestnut, the tone is a perfect match for autumn’s mood. Loewe, Ferragamo, and Erdem showed burgundy bags, shoes, and belts, offering plenty of ways to incorporate this timeless shade. Whether it’s a cherry-coloured handbag or claret-toned boots, burgundy accessories bring a touch of luxury to any outfit, making them the ideal investment for the season.
The Return of Khaki
There's always a colour or grouping of colour trends that prevail over the season: red, butter yellow, Barbie pink. This season, green—a symbol of renewal—is staking its claim. A retro 1970s Brat green enveloped suiting and jackets at Gucci. This year, khaki and its green counterparts are staking a claim on the season. From olive to a ‘70s-inspired sage green, this earthy tone popped up in collections from Gucci to Saint Laurent embraced the hue as a backdrop, while other designers paired it with rich textures like corduroy and wool. Perfect for layering, khaki shades are effortlessly versatile, blending well with both neutrals and bolder colours. A khaki blazer or coat is a no-fuss way to incorporate this trend, delivering an understated, timeless elegance.
Textured coats
On the AW24 runways, a real showstopper was textured oversized coats – and we're excited to embrace them as the season arrives. Prepare to embrace texture in a big way. From faux fur to oversized knits, autumn’s coats are all about being tactile. Designers like Stella McCartney and Simone Rocha are championing sustainable choices, with faux fur and plush knits dominating their collections. Imagine a shaggy coat that’s as cosy as it is stylish, or a longline faux-fur jacket that’s perfect for chilly days. The beauty of textured coats is that they add instant dimension to your look, so you can style them with simple jeans or over a festive dress.
Leather in Colour
When the temperature dips, leather is our go-to, but for Fall/Winter 2024, designers are pushing beyond black. Emilia Wickstead showed shredded leather in shades like merlot and navy, while Gucci brought mustard and olive hues into the mix. Gabriela Hearst’s gold leather dress stole the spotlight with its shimmer. Leather is now a statement piece in vibrant colours, bringing a fresh pop to autumn outfits. Pair leather trousers with a soft knit, or go bold with a full-coloured leather dress – either way, this season’s leather is anything but predictable.
Country House
Plaids, knits, and layers – the Country House trend is a comforting nod to the English countryside. Helmut Lang and Chloé leaned into oversized chequered blazers, while Burberry revived knotted headscarves, and Fendi played with earthy tones. This look is all about layering; think plaid skirts with oversized sweaters or tweed jackets with long skirts and knee-high boots. It's heritage style done in a modern, slightly relaxed way, perfect for misty autumn mornings or cosy days indoors.
Shimmer
This season’s shimmer trend is made for those who like a little drama. From bedazzled denim at Stella McCartney to crystal-covered dresses at Dior, embellishment is having a major moment. Gucci’s shimmering sets prove that sparkle isn’t just for evenings; it can add a fun, unexpected twist to your daytime wardrobe as well. Try sequinned tops with jeans or crystal-studded accessories for a bit of glam. Whether subtle or full-on sparkle, shimmer is here to brighten up the grey months.
This autumn and winter, fashion is as much about practicality as it is about bold self-expression, with each trend bringing a fresh take on our cold-weather wardrobes.