The colours, embellishments and details, all depend heavily on the general silhouette of the upcoming season. An emphasis on outerwear and sweaters reflects the weight of both classifications in an undeniable cosy yet chilly season. In skirts, the midi takes centre stage, while dresses stick to familiar territory, being constructed in warm knit fabrics, including velvet. Rounded shapes influence tops, while in bottoms wide legged and cropped styles are featured across multiple items. In addition to the five key items, the peasant blouse, cape, parka, long cardigan, A-line skirts and the cropped flare pants will make quite an impact too…
Turtleneck top
Turtlenecks are key to the sweater classification, applying to a wide range of looks. Now that the ’70s are still going strong, and the retro luxe glam looks are on the rise, no wonder we’re taking plunges in the past to emulate some of the looks. In shape, oversized silhouettes are explored with rounded shoulders, which emulate the trend in outerwear, though fitted styles are also relevant. Neck details range from classic to funnel or loose – necks, while stitch variation is plentiful from contrast cables to Intarsia and 3D techniques.
Knit pants
Whether crease front, flat front or slim, this silhouette will be popular for pants. The sweater classification extends to bottoms this season with the introduction of knit pants. Though jersey track pants continue to be relevant at retail, traditional sweater stitches extend to pants for a new cosy look. Paired top-and-bottom sweater sets are considered. Relevant bottom silhouettes include cropped, tapered and extra-long styles. Styling details like the fold over waist or side pockets achieve a soft look. Novelty details include contrast panels and holes.
Blanket coat
The floor duster will be one of outerwear’s most important pieces for the season, designed in a robe or wrap style. Continuing the trend for oversized outerwear, the blanket coat is a favourite in both women’s and young contemporary markets. As a naturally bohemian item, excess fabric is necessary, with asymmetric lines and kimono sleeves capturing the blanket reference. Lapel interest includes fur lining or double-faced techniques, while oversized collars are also featured. A self-belt draws in the excess bulk, while fringe hem nods to nomadic roots.
Midi skirt
Another A-line silhouette, the midi, will be available in lots of colours and with embellishment, while cut-out fabrics and flocked burnouts keep the silhouette up-to-date. The single most important direction in skirts and dresses is the Midi, short for the mid-calf shape. After several introductory seasons, the midi now reaches a broad audience, appealing to both women’s and young contemporary markets. Most relevant on skirts, slim styles feature details like centre slits and flared hems. Fuller dirndl skirts offer variation with A-line, asymmetric, fitted seams or pleats.
Wide legged pants
Wide legged pants land on the seasonal ‘must-have’ list once again as a key bottomwear direction. This wide legged pant is not going anywhere; for the season, styles will be crease front, flat front or wrap waist. Leveraged in a handful of themes, design details tap into relevance for the women’s or young contemporary markets. Womenswear styles tend to favour tailored aspects like high waists, crease front or side panel details. The young contemporary market focuses on the waistline with drawstring, paper bag or gathered details. Cuffed hems are a seamless extension of wide leg pants.
