Autumn 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most expressive, textured and layered seasons in recent years. We’re moving past quiet minimalism and streamlined “safe” looks into a world of bold colour, rich materials, architectural tailoring and nostalgic nods re-imagined for now. Here are the key trends you’ll see everywhere — and how to wear them.
1. Colour & Mood
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Jewel tones & bold red: Deep purples, eggplant, grape, mulberry and ruby red are defining the palette. According to editors, red (fiery, confident, full-power) is a standout hue this season. (Vogue)
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Monochrome brown: From camel to espresso, brown is no longer “just neutral.” Expect rich chocolate, caramel, mocha as luxe base layers. (Vogue)
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Surprising pastels return: Soft hues like butter yellow, lilac and periwinkle are getting fall make-overs (more on that below).
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Colour clash with purpose: Pairing of bold and muted tones, unexpected combinations, and colour being a statement rather than afterthought. (stylerave.com)
How to wear it: Think about investing in one statement-colour piece (e.g., a blazer or coat) then tone the rest down in neutrals. Or layer textures in the same colour family for richness.
2. Tailoring & Silhouette Shift
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Oversized blazers & relaxed suits: Tailoring is getting a relaxed re-boot — boxy fits, dropped shoulders, long lengths. (stylerave.com)
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High-waisted wide-leg trousers: A key silhouette: ultra high waist + wide leg = elongation, ease, modern polish. (stylerave.com)
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Bold outerwear shapes: Funnel-neck jackets, cocoon coats with exaggerated shoulders, sculptural pieces that carry weight. (fashionpoliceng.com)
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Statement collars, layering: Collars take centre stage — whether dramatic high collars, wrap-scarves, funnel necks, or contrasting collar details. (Vogue)
How to wear it: Mix a tailored piece (blazer/trouser) with something more relaxed (a soft sweater, slip skirt, or even jeans) to balance structure and ease. For outerwear, let the coat be the statement rather than adding too many loud accessories.
3. Texture, Fabric & Heritage References
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Velvet, rich wool, heritage fabrics: Velvet is back beyond holiday season — blazers, trousers, even accessories in lush fabric. (Women)
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Animal print (especially leopard): Not subtle anymore — maximalist leopard and heritage checks are big. (Women)
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Romantic details & lace: Lace trims, corset-inspired belts, poet sleeves — a nod to old-world elegance but styled in a modern way. (Chic Style Collective)
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Textural layering: Mesh, sheer panels, leather/leather look, and layering of varied fabrics to add depth. (Vogue)
How to wear it: Choose one piece with texture as your focal point (e.g., a velvet blazer or a lace dress) and keep other elements simple. If you’re doing animal print, let it be the accessory or layer it subtly under a neutral coat.
4. Footwear & Accessories That Speak
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Equestrian boots/higher boots: The “riding boot” silhouette — sleek, pointed-toe, leather — is getting big. (Women)
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Statement belts: Belts stacked, layered, wide cinches — a decisive finishing touch. (Vetted)
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Oversized, tactile bags: Soft shapes, quilted leathers, pillow-like totes. Accessories are less about minimal and more about material and volume. (Chic Style Collective)
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Less chunk-sneaker, more sleek: Sneaker silhouettes are becoming more streamlined rather than oversized. (The Wardrobe Consultant | Hallie Abrams)
How to wear it: Let the accessory anchor your outfit. A strong belt can turn a relaxed dress into defined waist elegance. Boots can elevate a simple jean/skirt combo. For bags, pick material over logo — texture matters.
5. Key Themes to Note
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Nostalgia remix: Elements of the 1990s/2000s, heritage British countryhouse motifs, gothic revival — all interpreted in fresh ways. (Vogue)
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Maximalism over minimalism: More statement shapes, more layering, more texture, less pared-back “quiet luxury.” (Vetted)
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Expression & Personality: It’s less about fitting in and more about showing your point of view — mood, fabric, colour become signals.
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Wearability: Although the looks are rich, there is still an “everyday” relevance: wide-leg trousers, long coats, layering pieces that work for day or night.
6. Shopping & Styling Cheat-Sheet
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Invest in one major piece this fall: The velvet blazer, the high-waisted wide-leg trousers, or an equestrian boot.
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Mix high/low: Pair a luxury texture (velvet or fine wool) with an everyday piece (denim, tee, sneaker) for balance.
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Colour strategy: If you’re new to bold colour, pick one accent piece in red or purple and build around neutrals.
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Texture play: Start small with a textured accessory (bag or belt) then build up.
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Tailor the fit: Oversized doesn’t mean shapeless. Let the piece have intention (drop shoulder, defined waist, structured coat).
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Layering is key: Slip dresses over trousers, blazers over skirts, boots under wide-legs.
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Accessories anchor the look: Think strong belt, textured bag, boots with presence.
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Balance is your friend: If you’re doing bold print (animal), keep the rest simple. If you’re doing bold colour and texture, let one piece speak.
Fall 2025 isn’t about blending in—it’s about showing up with confidence, a clear style voice, and an appreciation for craft, texture and richness. Whether you lean into one trend or combine a few, the overarching vibe is elevated but wearable, expressive but intentional.