A to Z of Fashion Trends for Autumn / Winter 2011

We do not see sweeping changes for the Autumn, but there is always something different around or a new way to wear something. Clothing continues to have a lovely feminine emphasis but for those who like something else there is also an androgynous look with a more “masculine” influence. The 3 piece trouser suit with a waistcoat is a great example and can be very sexy.

Below are the leading trends and hopefully I will inspire you to experiment at least a little, and to re jig a few ideas to keep you up to date.

A is for the Autumnal shades that lead the colour trends this season.

Chocolates, terracottas, cinnamons, olives and rusts abound. These strong, rich, spicy hues with a warm undertone look fabulous on the ladies who have them in their palette. But be careful as they can be overpowering and dull if they are not in yours! See below for reds, teals and purples.

B is for Boots and Blouses.

With ankle boots, knee highs, over the knee all available in leather or suede there is something for everyone’s personality and lifestyle. Many boots are heavily embellished this season, so if it appeals then go for it!
Blouses are a strong trend, especially “secretary” styles like pussybow necklines and Peter Pan collars. A lovely look for Romantics, but be careful not to choose a fabric that is too soft for your shape.

C is for Country tweeds.

Tailored in trendy jackets, skirts and crop trousers this is a wonderfully versatile quality fabric. No longer a look that only has appeal for classics, our English tweeds are very contemporary this season and receiving International acclaim . The country look is big news and even Barbour have brought out a range of modern all weather jackets for a practical cover up .

D is for Daring slits!

These are especially evident in midi and maxi lengths for skirts and dresses and are even seen in some jumpsuits.

E is for Edgy tailoring.

That super little jacket or simple shift dress.
So useful, so flattering and so up to date! Well fitting garments with a defined silhouette always look good, whether for the office or smart casual.

F is for Faux Fur.

Every label has something in faux fur. Some are dramatic, like Gucci, and others are more natural effects. If you don’t want the whole jacket a fur collar is a great buy as you can add it to lots of different outfits.

G is for Glitz and Glamour.

Just what our Dramatics and Romantics love. But we can all add some velvet, devore, lace or sequins. Take the opportunities to dress up!

H is for Hats.

I love hats but never felt great in them until last year when I discovered some super little cloche hats. This year there is an even greater choice and the wide brimmed felt hats are the new kids on the block for this season. Hats just finish off your look with flair AND they are warm. Some are even OK indoors, so do try some on as if I can wear them anyone can!

I is for Icy weather gear.

Snuggle into furs, shearlings, shaggy wools and puffa coats to keep warm and cosy this winter. There are also some stylish ski jackets and Barbours. A good investment will last for several winters, so choose carefully to suit your lifestyle.

J is for Jumpsuits.

This is the 3rd year for jumpsuits and now they have really caught on meaning that more wearable versions are available. Some are solid block colours and many are patterned. An statement outfit on its own and easy to dress up or down, the jumpsuit is favoured by Dramatics and Eurochics. This item could be a very flattering and versatile for a multitude of occasions, but do go for a good fit and check the back view. Shorter Culotte versions are now hitting the shops and look great with boots.

K is for Knits...

.... especially cardigans, dresses and tunics. There are less chunky styles around and more fine knits like cashmere.

L is for Lace....

... in anything from blouses to hosiery and leggings. Mix with another texture like leather or tweed for maximum effect.

M is for Midi/Maxi skirts and dresses worn with boots.

The longer lengths are worn in both fuller fluid styles and slimmer pencil cuts with slits. These styles are so easy to wear and are very versatile.

N is for Napa leathers and suedes.

Beautifully soft tops, dresses, jackets, skirts and trousers are on offer this season. Leather is a perennial favourite and looks good teamed with just about any other fabric. It just feels good to wear.

O is for Overcoats.

Considered one of the must have items this season and an investment to last a few winters. Women always look good in a quality winter coat, and this season there is an extensive choice of beautiful tailored shapes in both single and double breasted cuts. 3 lengths are popular, short, on the knee and midi, so choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.

P is for Purples and Patterns.

Purple comes in many hues, so select the one that compliments you most. With patterns anything goes, with lots of bold prints. Spots are particularly popular and easy to wear.

Q is for Quilted jackets.

The shorter version is shaped and belted and looks equally good with jeans or a pencil skirt. The longer version is a little puffier and more casual.

R is for Red, which is everywhere this season.

The dominant shade is a deep, tomato red but other shades are visible. Red is fabulous when you get it right but a killer if you choose the wrong shade, so be careful! An incredibly versatile colour which can be used to express confidence, power and sexiness, red is also the colour of danger so consider the message you want to send.

S is for Seventies, the leading influence in fashion for the Autumn and Winter.

We see lots of orange, brown and lime in bold patterns. Tunic tops, pinafores, jumpsuits and coat dresses all give a nod to a past fun decade.

T is for Teals and Trousers with turnups.

Teal can be used as a neutral in the wardrobe as it goes with lots of other colours and is widely available in accessories as well as clothes.

Turnups are back, and the favoured look is a wide turnup on 7/8 length trousers.

U is for Undercover.

The trend is for modest feminine silhouettes with little flesh on view, so we see shorts worn with opaques and maxi lengths with sleeves and lots of layering. Avoid flashing the flesh and make the statement more subtle with form-fitting silhouettes to create a little allure and mystery.

V is for Victoriana.

High necked, intricately designed blouses and long skirts with ankle boots, lace, velvet and cinched- in waists are all inspired by the Victorian era. Beloved by Romantics for its detail, this sub- trend will stay for a while.

W is for Wedges.

A practical heel, especially for boots, the wedge is an easy way to update and be comfortable.

X is for Xtra special fabrics.

Fashion is in love with luxurious, tactile fabrics that are glamorous yet wearable for the office as well as for evenings. Velvet, lace, cashmere, satin and silk are big favourites to mix and match and there is much less utility fabric like denim.

Y is for the Yellows.

From strong, rich mustards and ochres through to softer golds, the yellows are out in force to cheer up some of the more sombre shades this autumn. As with every colour it is vital to choose the right shade. Whether you choose a raincoat or just an accent spot, yellow is fun to wear and a great lift.

Z is for Zoo prints.

Animal prints are always a favourite with designers. Leopard and python are particularly popular in everything including bags, shoes and boots.

I hope you find these fashion tips helpful. However, never wear something just because it is in fashion. Choose clothes you love. Stay true to your colours, styles and personality and you will always look and feel fabulous!

Choose items that suit your lifestyle. WEAR your clothes and ENJOY them.

Have a truly stylish and expressive Autumn and lots and lots of fun!

Sue
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