The Key Fashion Trends Defining Autumn Winter 2025
We’re not quite ready to let go of summer just yet - but we do like to stay one step ahead. With many retailers starting to drop their autumn collections around now, it’s the perfect time to get a feel for what’s coming. We’ve rounded up some of the most wearable trends for the Autumn/Winter 2025 season to keep on your radar. Of course, trends aren’t one-size-fits-all - some you might love, others you’ll skip. The key is to lean into the ones that genuinely resonate with you. Don’t follow a trend just because it’s popular; invest in pieces that suit your personal style, work with your wardrobe, and that you’ll truly enjoy wearing.
PLAID
Plaid has always had a cosy connection to autumn–winter, but this year it’s taking things up a notch. For AW25, we’re seeing plaid go bold - think louder colours, clashing checks, and oversized prints that feel more punk than preppy. Even the high street is leaning in: this week, Zara dropped an entire plaid-focused collection, clearly setting the tone for what’s to come this season.
Shop the Zara Plaid Collection here
BELTS
You might be wondering how belts ended up as a major trend, but they dominated the AW25 runways in a big way. This season, they’re not just lifting your pants off the floor, they’re the focal point. Schiaparelli reimagined the belt as a statement piece, layering them across the torso like a corset, and even enlarging one into a sculptural velvet belt top. Givenchy also embraced the look, spotlighting wide, waist-cinching belts that sculpt the silhouette. On the high street, brands are following suit - Massimo Dutti has already dropped a substantial belt collection ahead of the season.
TOMATO RED
Tomato red is set to be the standout colour of Autumn/Winter 2025 and it’s far from subtle. This season, it’s less about playful fruit references and more about fully embracing its bold, vibrant energy. The shade is popping up everywhere - from runways, to interiors to accessories. It’s a refreshing shift from the usual neutrals and muted tones we see this time of year. Designers are using it to add impact - whether it’s a full monochrome look or just a pop of colour in an otherwise classic outfit. It’s warm, confident, and surprisingly easy to wear. If you’re looking for a simple way to breathe life into your winter wardrobe, tomato red is it.
SLOUCHY BAGS
For Autumn/Winter 2025, the slouchy bag is having a moment. Soft, relaxed, and effortlessly cool, it’s the perfect contrast to all the sharp tailoring and oversized coats we’re seeing this season. Designers like The Row, Bottega Veneta, and Jil Sander showed oversized pouches and hobo bags in buttery leathers and rich suede, while Loewe and Proenza Schouler went for sculptural shapes and gathered textures. Whether in deep espresso, oxblood, or muted metallics, these bags feel modern, functional, and quietly luxurious. Worn tucked under the arm or carried in hand, the slouchy bag looks SO chic.
BLACK MONOCHROME
Black is back - not that it ever left. At Paris Fashion Week, designers went all in on head-to-toe black, and honestly, it looked anything but boring. From Saint Laurent’s sharp shoulders and leather-on-leather moments to Rick Owens’ sculptural drama and Givenchy’s sleek tailoring, black stole the show in every possible way. It’s that one colour that never goes out of style, but this season, it’s getting an upgrade - think richer textures, exaggerated silhouettes, and a lot of attitude. Whether you’re into minimalist chic or full-on gothic glamour, black is about to be everywhere this autumn-winter, bold, timeless, and effortlessly expensive looking.
LACE DETAILING
For Autumn/Winter 2025, lace steps out of its usual spring territory and into something darker and more dramatic. This season, it’s all about gothic romance - think black, oxblood, and forest green lace layered over heavier fabrics for a bold contrast. Designers like Erdem, Simone Rocha, and Alexander McQueen showed lace in unexpected ways: under chunky knits, trimming sharp suiting, or softening structured coats. It’s delicate but not dainty - grounded with leather boots and outerwear for that winter-ready edge.
SHOULDER PADS
Shoulder pads are officially back for AW25, bringing bold, structured silhouettes to the forefront. From sharp blazers at Alexander McQueen to strong-shouldered coats at Saint Laurent, the runways were all about power dressing. The best part? You don’t need a whole new wardrobe to get the look - removable shoulder pads are an easy, affordable way to add instant structure to pieces you already own. You can easily find some on Amazon, which work wonders and are super simple to pop into blazers, knits, or even shirts.
All images sourced via Pinterest
