We’re just stepping into spring, but fashion designers are already showing us what to expect for autumn/winter 2025 – and the best part is, many of these styles can be worn now. Though “quiet luxury” fell by the wayside, statement styles such as faux fur and leopard print abounded on the runway alongside sheer materials that exposed a little more flesh. Yet classics also returned in a big way, such as sophisticated lace, time-honoured pencil skirts, warm wool overcoats, and the ever-enduring colour brown.
Faux fur was also a giant trend, with Gucci and Simone Rocha featuring full coats, fuzzy hats, and more. Go more eco-friendly by opting for secondhand or vintage pieces in beige or brown shades. Lace, too, took center stage – in bright colors and fine motifs on Saint Laurent, Fendi, and Dior dresses, tops, and skirts. It’s a romantic and evergreen style that can be dressed up in numerous ways.
Brown continued to be the main colour of the season, seen in everything from sequined dresses to sportswear and leather jackets. Designers such as Stella McCartney and Michael Kors showed that brown is officially the new favourite neutral. Pencil skirts also made a big comeback – dressed up for work and nights out, in bold colours and streamlined fits. Givenchy, Gucci, and Dior were the pioneers of re-making the pencil skirt fashionable again.
Another dominant trend was sheer clothes and provocative clothing, with flouncy see-through tops and bare-backed items taking center stage. Although red carpets featured bold pieces, street styles were more suitable for everyday use – imagine sheer tops paired with jeans or airy dresses over dramatic undergarments.
Handbags this season were squishier and softer, wrapped under the arm or carelessly slung across the shoulder. Fendi, The Row, and Stella McCartney’s soft leather clutches and totes are ideal for looking stylishly effortless. Leopard print also broke bold back through in coats but not only that – dresses, suits, shoes, and bags saw the resurgent print return in a major way. Do it head-to-toe, or simply pick a printed add-on – whatever, it’s worth making an announcement.
Outerwear saw a dramatic shift in the form of cape-like jackets and scarf coats worn over the shoulders. Elegance came from designers such as Calvin Klein, Louis Vuitton, and Max Mara, with wonderful versions that serve well during the transitional weather. Belts as accessories also emerged, ranging from oversized to thin, sometimes worn in layers for a fashion-statement-making purpose.
Lastly, as far as footwear was concerned, style and comfort came together in a school-like twist. Loafers, thick flats, and lace-up brogues were seen from Miu Miu to Prada. To wear them with dresses or jeans, they’re an excellent replacement for your everyday trainers – and yes, suitable for day or night.
In short, the AW25 trends are a fun mix of bold and traditional, and many of them can be styled into your wardrobe straight away – there’s no need to wait until colder times!
