Your Autumn/Winter Style Report 2019/20

If you are a regular reader of the Style Post – welcome back; if you are new to the Style Post – it is an absolute pleasure to have you.My aim is for the Style Post to continue to inspire you to try new looks, enjoy what you wear and above all encourage you to feel good about your own unique style.It is focussed on style rather than ‘fashion’: buying less, buying quality and taking real enjoyment from the clothing you wear – otherwise, what’s the point?

Regular readers will know that some changes are afoot with the format of the Style Post.The first week of each month will be dedicated to a specific topic (as it is now), the following 3 weeks will be shorter posts focussing on Maggie Loves; Maggie Recommends; and Maggie Wears.I hope you love it – please do let me know.Now, without further ado, let’s look at what’s in store for you with New Season Trends for Autumn/Winter.

Yes, it’s back to school – whether you have children or not!It’s about fresh starts, new beginnings and I couldn’t be happier.Autumn/Winter clothing is my personal favourite – it’s so much easier: throw a beautiful coat over the simplest outfit (you are good to go); find those beautiful boots that will work with your favourite jeans as well as dresses and skirts – job done.The beautiful shades, textures, and cuts…everything feels a little more luxurious and pulled together.

This season the runways were an eclectic mix of extremes: from mini to midi dresses and skirts, pretty florals to androgynous suiting; simplistic to OTT; micro to macro handbags, tough leather to delicate feather and lace.Yes, designers gave us so much choice – so now what?

Resist getting caught up in the influx of fashion.It’s important to decipher which trends and styles are right for you:

• Look at what you already own and love to wear.If you love wearing wide leg trousers, maybe try a check pair or a new colour (eg. toffee or caramel would be stunning).You’ll still feel great in the shape but will be adding a new print or colour-way to your wardrobe.
• Avoid styles that you know are impractical for you and your lifestyle (micro handbags and feathers are just two of mine!).
• Resist the urge to “start again” with your wardrobe.It’s amazing how small, beautiful additions to your existing wardrobe give it a new lease of life.

Here are 5 trends that I’m particularly excited about this season that I know won’t be a “fad”, won’t date and are key to an effortlessly stylish and versatile wardrobe.

Luxurious Leather

Head-to-toe leather was a key trend on the runway for many designers such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Sies Marjan and Akris.However, if this feels too much, why not add just one piece and mix with beautiful silks, cotton and knitwear.A leather jacket, skirt or trousers are amazing pieces in terms of versatility and only improve with age (much like us all)!

Catwalk Inspiration

High-Street Interpretation

Bold Shades of purple, chilli pepper and ink blue

Ok, the colours may not be for everyone, but they made a bold splash across the runway for A/W 19.Many of the outfits were head-to-toe, with different shades thrown in for good measure.If you feel, like me, that you need to experiment with colour, why not add a new piece that works with your existing wardrobe.I love the idea of camel and red, purple and brown and trying different textures of dark blue together.

Dramatic Oversized Coats

There is something quite dramatic and fabulous about an ankle-swishing winter coat.Many were oversized on the catwalk (from Max Mara, Alberta Ferretti and Agnona) in soft, light shades.However, we live in the real world so if a darker shade works – go for it.You’ll get a similar effect (and a cheaper dry cleaning bill!).

Catwalk Inspiration

High Street Interpretation

Lady-like Accessories

Patterned tights, framed bags and printed scarves were big hits on the catwalk this season.Saint Laurent, Jil Sander and Richard Allen have created some stunning pieces.The beauty of a great accessory is its ability to elevate the simplest outfit and give it a new twist.

Catwalk Inspiration

High Street Interpretation

Enjoy the season ahead and if you need help finding those beautiful pieces that work with your existing wardrobe, do get it touch.It would be a pleasure to help you.

With love