After a long, hot summer, the move into a new, cooler season feels all the more welcome. Knits, coats, boots and jackets, now’s the time to layer up and enjoy autumn’s sartorial offerings. We’re excited to refresh our existing wardrobes with pops of print, texture and colour – especially hot pink, the stand-out shade as decreed by Valentino. Chiming with our core ethos of forever style, we’re also focussing on the classics that have been updated for the months ahead, such as the white shirt, leather skirt and cable knits. Here’s the ICONS guide to A/W22.
The colour of the season is without doubt fuchsia. The bold mood was started by Maison Valentino, which showcased a parade of hot-pink day and evening looks, complete with coordinating accessories, on its A/W22 catwalk. Reminiscent of Schiaparelli’s ‘shocking pink’, this colour complements cold-weather neutrals, so pick a saturated piece and mix with navy, black, grey or cream. Winter wedding on the cards? Go big in a fuchsia gown.
The cable knit is a classic for good reason – the style has endured since the early 20th century. This season it gets a new lease of life, with designers reimagining it in various silhouettes and finishes, from statement trims to deconstructed weaves and slinky maxi dresses. Use a remixed style to bring tailored trousers and weekend jeans up to date. Or go traditional-with-a-twist and belt a classic cream knit with a wide leather belt and team with chunky boots.
Heritage fabrics are synonymous with the cooler seasons, and this year is no exception. Houndstooth, herringbone and checks in every form (from Prince of Wales to plaid) were given plenty of airtime on the catwalk, fashioned into modern silhouettes. This look lends itself to workwear, so consider refreshing your 9-5 wardrobe with a trophy checked blazer or coordinating suit. Keep the styling contemporary with sleek roll-necks, chunky loafers and a colour-pop bag.
Basics are anything but boring – case in point: the white shirt. On the A/W22 catwalks, designers offered a new twist by styling it with colourful tailoring, trophy trousers and high-octane evening wear. This autumn, think of the white shirt as a sartorial palette cleanser and switch your statement blouses for a clean, crisp button-down instead. Or use it to simplify your statement pieces, extending their wearability.
While jeans are a year-round staple, this autumn they take on a more elevated look. Designers have championed tailored silhouettes with refined detailing (pleats, pockets, creases) in dark washes. Treat them as you would smart trousers and style with a shirt and smart flats for relaxed office dress codes. Or team a wide leg with an evening blouse and big earrings for dinner. They can take your weekend look up a level, too. Just add a cashmere knit and classic trench.
No ICONS trend round-up would be complete without mention of the trench. It really is one of the best investments you can make, being ageless, seasonless, universally flattering and versatile enough to work over everything – and we mean everything – in your wardrobe. Keep it classic in beige, although don’t be afraid to add flair with chic design details (an oversized cut, a contemporary trim). This is one investment you’ll never regret making.
Have the classic black and tan bag covered off? Then think about going red this season. Statement shoulder, top handle and oversized clutch bags in shades of crimson through to tomato are among the most covetable accessories for autumn, as seen at Loewe and Bottega Veneta. While it might not seem like an instant classic, a pop of red is actually a clever way to breathe new life into your wardrobe. Use it to lift a beige trench, dark denim, leopard print, neutral suiting, camel coat, etc.
Fashion’s recent preoccupation with dresses and trousers has left skirts out in the cold, but this autumn it’s time to fall back in love. The classic leather skirt is leading the revival, with sleek midis and maxis top of the pack. Like all fashion Icons, it’s worth investing in a luxe style that will improve with age, and stick to black, tan and brown for maximum versatility. Wear them with textured knitwear and long boots, or go sharp with a blazer.
Party heels might be making a comeback, but for everyday practicality, flats fit the bill. As the temperature drops, thick-soled, knee-high boots are the style to reach for, as seen at Ulla Johnson, Dior and Tod’s. Chunky boots have been around for a few seasons, so the chances are you already have a pair in your wardrobe. The way to wear them this year? With classic trench coats and maxi lengths.
Along with stripes and checks, leopard spot is guaranteed to retain its appeal. Evocative of both Hollywood glamour and rebellious punk spirit, it’s a shortcut to classic statement dressing. This season the remit also includes jaguar and cheetah spot, all of which complement autumnal neutrals. A printed coat or boots will instantly transform everyday staples, from knitted dresses to a T-shirt and jeans. For the evening, style a spotted dress with black and gold accessories.
In a shift away from the athleisure look that has dominated the past few seasons, tailored lines are central to the A/W22 mood. However, a relaxed aesthetic still prevails, with oversized being the key silhouette. Rediscover your boyfriend blazer and wear it with a midi dress and long boots, or pair those wide-leg trousers with a crisp shirt and loafers. You could even do the double and reach for a loose trouser suit worn with a luxe T-shirt.
The rich tones of an autumnal palette are always desirable, but there’s something enjoyably subversive about a statement bright being thrown into the mix. And designers have championed highlighter tones as the sartorial refresh to consider. Take a cue from the catwalks and try updating your workwear look with some zesty tailoring, or liven-up long boots with a lemon dress. For just a hint of colour, a tangerine shoe can transform winter trousers and dresses.
The 90s has proven to be a style decade that sticks around and this season its influence manifests in the bomber jacket. Think signature sporty silhouettes elevated by luxe fabrics, chic colourways and embellishments. Consider this your trans-seasonal outerwear update and layer over jumpsuits, midi dresses and wide trousers before the winter chill sets in. Balance out puffed styles with a cropped length, or opt for a slouchy version that hits mid-thigh.