We're certain by now that you've been doing some meditative soul-searching over what you want to buy for the new A/W 17 season, right? Even if you've been more spontaneous than that, it's an important task nonetheless. We've personally spent days (well, a long while) choosing the best winter coat or the ultimate pair of ankle boots, but once you've got these integral parts of an autumnal closet nailed (and you could do worse than checking out our definitive starter list), then it's time to start branching out and experimenting with the microtrends that make every outfit a little bit cooler.
Right now, a rainbow of options exists, and we believe that this pick-'n'-mix approach is producing a fearless fashion mood. Street stylers and wardrobe enthusiasts alike are putting doubts to one side and wearing what they want in the most interesting ways possible. A zip-up sporty knit with just one bauble earring? Why not—it's the new high/low formula. Or how about swapping out your biker jacket every other day for a patent coat? Then there are stirrup leggings: Considering how much we know you like wearing the regular iteration, this could well be your next unexpected go-to.
So here's our rundown of the easiest and most effective micro-trends for autumn you can copy now.
Style Notes: It was the bag trend that took over fashion month's chic streets, and now it's heading from designer brands (think Prada and Gucci) to the high street (Zara and ASOS). Also, we've discovered the trend is particularly good for nights out where you don't want to leave your bag in a dark pub corner.
Key Buy:
Although the silhouette is very of-the-moment, a black version will be fashionable for decades to come.
Style Notes: No coat, sweater, dress or shirt was left untouched by bustiers during fashion week—just keep thinking "dress inside out."
Key Buy:
Layer now, and wear on its own come party time.
Style Notes: Exhausted velvet? Not ready for faux fur? Then a crazy dash of corduroy may well be in your future.
Key Buy:
Mango Corduroy Blazer (£100) and Corduroy Trousers (£70)
Style Notes: Sure, you love your trusty black pull-ons, but how much do a statement pair of knee-high boots make a plain outfit zing?
Key Buy:
These statement boots are comfy to wear all day.
Style Notes: These cheery stripes may not seem like an obvious autumn look, but they can be found everywhere right now—particularly in the sweater department with rainbow jumpers ruling supreme.
Key Buy:
See more of our favourite rainbow knits here.
Style Notes: Alexa Chung agrees with Giorgia Tordini and had designed one for previous M&S collection—these rather sassy cover-ups are the last word in cool.
Key Buy:
The vinyl trench coat is becoming really popular.
Style Notes: Starting where last year's roll-neck phenomenon left off, the zippy, sporty retro sweater is a surprisingly versatile layering piece.
Key Buy:
This will be a great brunch look when paired with jeans.
Style Notes: Leave black alone for a little bit longer, and jump on to fashion's brown bandwagon. Dedicated girls have been wearing it tonally head-to-toe, but it even looks chic, and it's easier to wear with other neutrals.
Key Buy:
Start your entry into wearing brown via a simple pair of shoes.
Style Notes: Love skinny jeans? Adore leggings? Then you'll have no problem getting on board with Pernille Teisbaek's favourite new trend. Plus, they draw extra attention to your footwear.
Key Buy:
Black is always the best way to go.If you're looking to find some incredible high-street buys, check out the list of items we've been told are going to sell out first.
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