For those of us who are into fashion, people-watching is both an enjoyable sport and an information-gathering exercise. I know I'm not the only one who sources most of their style inspiration from well-dressed strangers on the street (and on Instagram), but observing passing outfits can also teach us which trends we should be paying extra-close attention to.
Since London Fashion Week took place earlier this month, our team has noticed a number of defining looks emerging from the capital. While the beauty of street style is that it's varied and unexpected, there's no denying the popularity of certain shapes, colour palettes and cult designer buys. From the bold shade that's dominating the season to the updated take on denim, we're pretty sure you'll be just as excited about these pieces as everyone else seems to be.
It's not in our nature to gatekeep our fashion findings—so, scroll on to see the 11 items Londoners are loving these days, then shop our top picks below.
1. Pinstriped Sets
Style Notes: Pinstripes are no longers corporate; they're cool now. If in doubt, pair your suit or co-ord with bold-coloured accessories, like this Fashion Week attendee.
Shop the Look:
Made from high-quality Italian wool.
Such a current shape.
2. Puddle Jeans
Style Notes: If you somehow hadn't noticed, puddle jeans are big news for 2024—the more the cuffs pool, the better, and bonus trend points if you pick up a low-slung pair.
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This pair looks really premium. Well done, H&M.
These will work with both fitted and flowy tops.
3. Red Shoes
Style Notes: Party season might be long behind us, but according to the London fashion set, there's never a wrong time to have some fun with your footwear.
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Trust me, people will constantly ask you where you got these.
For those who favour a slight heel.
4. Faux Fur Jackets
Style Notes: Winter might be almost over, but thanks to the viral ‘mob wife’ aesthetic, faux fur jackets are sticking around for the odd chilly spring day. Invest in a high-quality vegan fur or a vintage iteration to ensure it lasts.
Shop the Look:
Bomber silhouettes are cropping up more and more.
Why not take your faux fur in a fun spring hue?
5. Ruffles Frills
Style Notes: Frankly, we've been a little surprised by the sheer volume of frilly-tiered dresses and skirts we've spotted on the streets of London. But it's a pleasant surprise; as we enter brighter days, this is precisely the kind of playful fashion we're into.
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So romantic.
It would be rude not to buy the matching top, right?
6. Floor-Sweeping Skirts
Style Notes: We've been wearing maxi-length skirts all winter long, but come spring, skip the opaque tights and style them with ballet flats or sandals.
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You'll feel like royalty swishing around in this skirt.
We're not-so-patiently waiting for summer.
7. Bow Embellishments
Style Notes: Can you think of anything more mood-boosting than an item of clothing with bows cascading from it? Me neither.
Shop the Look:
If you're not totally sold on this look, start with this subtle cream version.
The cream-and-black contrast is so classy.
8. Statement Belts
Style Notes: No matter how simple the outfit, a supersized belt (or three) will completely transform it—particularly if you pair it with a sharply tailored blazer.
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A wearable work of art.
A quick and easy way to add some interest to your look.
9. Denim Trench Coats
Style Notes: This one wasn't so shocking, because we've been seeing denim everywhere for the past few seasons. Our enthusiasm certainly isn't waning, though, and we're excited to wear our favourite fabric in trench coat form.
Shop the Look:
Reformation's denim is made to last.
Create a cool denim-on-denim look with your trusty jeans.
10. Icon Bags
Style Notes: Londoners have their fingers on the pulse when it comes to trends, but they also know a classic when they see one. This fashion week, we spotted plenty of signature labels from powerhouse brands like Gucci, Chanel and Hermès.
Shop the Look:
We have nothing but good things to say about this iconic bag.
Rumour has it Birkin bags can be a great investment.
11. Antique Hosiery
Style Notes: As appealing as fresh trends are, we always feel unparalleled joy when a vintage-inspired piece is appreciated by the masses. This time around, it's lacey tights and knee socks with a grandma-chic feel.
Shop the Look:
So sweet.
The ribbons are also very on-trend.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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