Call me biased, but I'm a firm believer that every balanced wardrobe starts with a great pair of jeans. Whether you swear by classic straight-leg styles or prefer something slightly more slouchy and baggy, denim has had the power to make (or break) an outfit for decades. So, imagine my surprise when I dove into the "fun jeans for fall" hashtag on social media and found myself confronted with a particularly bold style I thought we’d left in the Y2K archives: lace-up jeans.

This risqué silhouette had parents clutching their pearls and teenagers rushing to their nearest Baby Phat long before "Y2K" became a TikTok and Pinterest search term, and like them or loathe them, lace-up jeans were doing what they did best: pushing the limits of how much (or little) denim could count as clothing. From Christina Aguilera's Stripped era (specifically that raunchy music video for "Dirrty"), to reigning queen of 2000s excess Paris Hilton, we hit peak It-girl fashion when a playful pair was styled with a ubiquitous graphic T-shirt.

And of course, bestie Britney Spears was never too far behind (both fashion-wise and spacially), with her unforgettable fedora-and-denim combination becoming shorthand for the time, but it was the low-rise lace-ups that really made it oh so Britney. And, lest we forget Destiny's Child and Jennifer Lopez (when she was still Jenny from the Block), who made laced jeans a styling language all of their own. Whether they were embroidered with floral details or finished with strategic cut-outs, these jeans were never just denim—they were a cultural reset.

Such was the magic of lace-up jeans. A grand departure from the subtle, sensible styles of the Calvin Klein '90s, these unapologetically sexy, slightly outrageous low-rise jeans were all about unabashed femininity. Which is exactly why, 20-plus years on, the style is so beloved today. Whilst summer maximalism was expressed through vivid shades of blue, psychedelic prints and wacky accessories, turning the corner into autumn means expressing yourself in a slightly different way.

With layering firmly at the forefront, this season is all about unexpected styling choices, and what, pray tell, says "I'm the party" louder than a pair of lace-front jeans? J.Lo was recently spotted in a pair again, whilst Bella Hadid wore hers with a graphic tee and pointed boots, so it's clear that amongst the fashion set, 2001 is officially back.

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If there’s one thing that I dislike about fashion, it's the idea that with each season you have to buy an entirely new wardrobe. No sooner had I settled into my linens and tank tops than a cool breeze whipped around, and after being caught out not once, but twice in sandals in the rain (sob), I knew it was time I gave some serious thought to my autumnal options. The same forever knits that I wore last winter are still good to go (thank you, Navygrey and Rise & Fall), and I rely on one style of jeans for everything (that's a true-blue straight), but the category I’m always excited to reassess come September is dresses.

Yes, autumn may signal the return of knitwear, coats and boots, but this season’s dress trends are arguably the most compelling reason to refresh this one area of your wardrobe. From polished, ladylike styles that feel made for the office to the unexpectedly sexy and vampish, according to the autumn/winter 2026 runways. Fashion has plenty to offer when it comes to new dress trends.

And whilst the runways are naturally my first place to start, the real test is whether a trend feels wearable beyond the front row. Sheer dresses and sculptural gowns will always get my full attention, but will they factor into my regular rotation? Don't bet on it. So, after paying close attention to the key looks already filtering their way down from the catwalk to our closets, these six dress trends feel fresh now and have serious staying power. Consider this your edit of the styles worth knowing (and shopping) before party season really gets underway.

The 6 Biggest Dress Trends for Autumn 2026

1. The Gothic Heroine

Style Notes: In the year that gave us Maggie Gyllenhaal's Bride!, Practical Magic 2 and a Charli XCX Wuthering Heights score, dark romance is back in a big way for autumn. Long, lacy gothic dresses were all over the runways, eschewing subtlety for costume drama—think lace trims, high necklines, sheer panels and Morticia Addams-coded figure-hugging silhouettes. This season, designers are using the gothic dress to bring a modern edge to Victorian-inspired dressing, and are trading witchy boots for polished court shoes and scaling back on jewellery stacking to let the dress do all of the talking. If this sheer, long-sleeved style feels too full-frontal, wear it under a black blazer for your evening plans. It's sure to cause a stir, in all of the right ways.

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2. The Antique Clothes Show

Style Notes: ICYMI, vintage fashion is having a moment right now. And no, I don't mean ’70s-inspired florals or '90s minimalism; instead, we're taking it all the way back to the roaring '20s, where fur trims, intricate embroidery and tassels reigned supreme. Borrowing all of the best bits of the era, Magda Butryms soft blooms sit perfectly alongside Dior, Ferragamo and Dries Van Noten's flocked-wallpaper-reminiscent prints. Over at Lanvin, the dropped waist felt modern over a tiered skirt, and Ermanno Scervino and Saint Laurent's delicate lace looked like French finery.

Sorry, pared-back minimalism- these are the kind of dresses that add instant personality to an autumn wardrobe, and if you’ve been tempted to dip a toe into the vintage aesthetic without looking like you’re in fancy dress, just add a simple, long wool coat, opaque tights and T-bar shoes for an outfit formula that tells people you're dressed to impress.

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3. 24 Karat Gold

Style Notes: From Shirley Eaton in 1965's Goldfinger to Tate McRae doused in liquid gold at Lollapalooza, there's something about head-to-toe metallic that makes for an unforgettable statement. From Standing Ground's muted yellow, through to No 21's chocolate-wrapper foil, Mugler's retro lamé and Akris' liquid-metal dress that looked poured onto the model, this high-octane colour proves that "party" dressing doesn’t have to wait until December. Whilst jewellery trends continue to shift towards silver and autumn beauty is picking up on copper, consider this your sign to embrace a little more 24-karat shine in your wardrobe to stand out from the crowd this autumn.

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4. Short and Sweet

Style Notes: Move over, LBD! According to designers, the minidress was overdue for a cuter makeover, and this season expect to see playful proportions, pretty prints, boxy silhouettes and lots (and lots) of bows, ruffles and Peter Pan collars. It is refreshing to see such spring-coded minis alongside the season’s heavier tailoring and oversized outerwear, and the styling possibilities make it surprisingly wearable once the temperature drops.

Take your favourite mini and add sheer tights or socks, pumps or Miu Miu-esque trainers, then finish with an off-the-shoulder coat for that effortless high-low balance. Whether you lean towards sweet and romantic or prefer something with a preppy edge, this is one autumn trend that’s guaranteed to bring a little fun back into getting dressed.

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5. Reach Out and Touch Me

Style Notes: If there’s one thing autumn 2026 is encouraging us to do, it’s to get a little more tactile with our wardrobes. It's no surprise that during sweater season we want to wrap ourselves up in cashmere and duvet coats, and now dresses are taking on an equally "touchable" quality this season with plush velvets, fuzzy knits, tactile bouclé, and feathered trims giving even the simplest silhouettes plenty of interest. You might not be reaching for Balenciaga's haute couture tulle to wear to the office, but ruffles, fringing and wool feel perfectly suited to cooler days, and there’s something undeniably luxurious about slipping into a dress that feels as good as it looks. Wear a tactile midi with a polished knee-high boot for day, or let a more dramatic feathered or velvet style take centre stage after dark.

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6. Dream Sleeves

Style Notes: Remember the "nap" dress, the style so comfortable and effortlessly relaxed that you could fall asleep in it? Well, this autumn our fascination with all things nightgowns has evolved into the kind of dress that you can comfortably wear throughout cooler days too. Sleeves are getting bigger, puffier and more sculptural, adding just the right amount of pillowy softness to otherwise simple dress silhouettes. From romantic balloon sleeves and gathered shoulders to subtly voluminous shapes, these may just look like white and cream dresses at first glance, but their proximity to the humble nightie makes this one of the easiest ways to make an everyday dress feel instantly more directional. Keep it modern (and outdoor-appropriate) by balancing the volume elsewhere—think sleek knee-high boots à la Chloé or Givenchy's playful puffball mules.

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With autumn less than a month away and the temperatures starting to drop here in the UK, my hunt for the most polished autumn wardrobe staples has officially begun. And although I like to dip my toes into trends to add some interest to my outfits every so often, the truth is that I’m a classic dresser to my core. To me, it’s all well and good to hop on the latest fad, but the most elegant, put-together wardrobes always have a foundation of timeless basics you can rely on year after year. Think of the type of classic pieces that can be dressed up and down with ease, can be mixed and matched to create a wide range of outfits, and, most importantly, will never look dated or out of style.

And so, with the new season fast approaching, I decided to go on the hunt for the classic pieces that will make up the basis of my autumn capsule wardrobe. From luxury investments that are sure to stand the test of time to affordable staples that look way more expensive than their high-street price tag, I spent hours scouring the web as well as the Instagram pages of the most elegant dressers I know to find the classic pieces that can be relied upon year after year.

And the best part? I’ve rounded them up for you below. From polished outerwear to refined accessories, keep scrolling to shop the classic pieces I’m planning to add to my wardrobe for autumn 2026 (and beyond).

Classic Pieces to Buy This Autumn 2026

1. Outerwear

2. Knitwear

3. Bottoms

4. Shoes

5. Dresses

6. Bags

7. Tops

If you’ve scrolled through social media lately and feel as though you’ve been sucked into a ‘90s J Crew campaign (and with the influx of Western-style belts and Ralph Lauren jumpers, who wouldn't), you wouldn't be the only one. Americana is back, and with it come its most recognisable signatures. Whilst it's true that just about every ‘90s trend has made a return to the runway at some time or another (Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s brand of clean-cut minimalism and the era's "anti-workout" take on athleisure spring to mind), in autumn 2026, it's the cosy energy of middle Americana that's "in".

Blending the polish of prep with the rugged, frontier appeal of Country Western, this fashion trend is all about casual comfort. Think imperfect, "lived-in" denim styled with loose-fitting shirts or slouchy sweaters. It's unfussy, a little undone and ultimately all about looking like you didn’t try too hard—even when you absolutely did.

And when you look to our favourite dressers of the '90s, many were pioneers of the "all-American girl". Whether it was the of-the-moment styling of early Friends or the functional wardrobe of the queen of autumn herself, Lorelai Gilmore, each of their outfits had the same signature, unfussy quality. Having delved deep into the biggest trends of the season, I've collated seven American-inspired pieces you need to see as we head into autumn. Scroll to see what made the cut below and to shop the very best.

How to Do '90s Americana Like a Fashion Person

1. Plaid Shirt

Style Notes: Nothing says "Americana" quite like a plaid shirt. Crafted from a textured weave more substantial than an Oxford, its rich pattern instantly adds a point of interest to even the simplest look. So whether you’re taking cues from Jacob Elordi in Euphoria and styling yours with a black T-shirt and straight-leg jeans, or pairing it with a lace-trimmed dress and suede flats like Sarah Lysander (pictured above), a plaid shirt is an easy way to dip into the trend this autumn.

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2. Relaxed Jeans

Style Notes: If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, the chances are you’ve probably come across the search for the best pair of ‘90s jeans. Sitting neatly at the mid-rise, they strike the sweet spot between too slim and excessively baggy, giving you a relaxed silhouette that still feels pulled together. And because nobody wants to look too dishevelled, the straight cut offers just enough structure to keep things looking polished. Better still, it's one of those styles that work with pretty much everything already in your wardrobe.

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3. Boat Shoes

Style Notes: When you think of preppy or classic American style, it's impossible not to think of boat shoes. Once firmly rooted in their stuffy "dad shoe" era, over the last few years (thanks to Miu Miu’s revamped shape), the style has experienced a renaissance. Balancing the ease of a trainer whilst being slightly more polished than your standard slip-on, boat shoes are the kind of everyday staple that can instantly make an outfit feel far more polished. Especially when styled as Lucy Williams has, with light-blue jeans and a loose leather jacket.

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4. Medallion Belt

Style Notes: With the ever-evolving fashion landscape continuing to favour loud maximalism over quiet luxury, it makes sense that the ludicrously sized medallion belt is taking centre stage. Beloved for its instantly recognisable rococo-inspired medallions, the Yellowstone style has quickly been adopted by the fashion set, adding a jewellery-like finish to jeans, shorts and trousers, without looking over-accessorised.

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5. "Frontier" Knits

Style Notes: You heard it here first: the "frontier knit" is about to be one of this season’s biggest fashion trends. Steeped in rich history and known for its intricate craftspersonship and timeless appeal, it's easy to see why this cosy knitwear style is having a moment. In an era dominated by fast-moving trends, these retro knits offer an alternative: a piece that will live with you for decades and only feel more nostalgic—in a good way. And in case you need any more convincing, Princess Diana was a big fan.

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6. Baseball Caps

Style Notes: Whether you wear your baseball cap backwards or forwards, this autumn, just make sure you wear one. Rooted in American sportswear, but spanning hip-hop and skater subcultures, caps have acted as a shorthand for urban cool. But this season, it's less about hiding a bad hair day and more about using it to pull together a smarter look. Be it a classic baseball style emblazoned with a vintage logo, or washed, distressed versions made from cotton, this relaxed, almost aloof little accessory is an easy way to achieve the ever-sought-after all-American feel.

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7. Canvas Bags

Style Notes: These aren’t your regular Sainsbury’s shopping bags—the style taking over this season is much more like a Trader Joe’s tote than a supermarket carrier. Practical, utilitarian and, dare we say, a little bit of a humble brag, the canvas tote has had quite the fashion makeover. Thanks to high-fashion houses like Marc Jacobs and Dior, who have reworked the everyday carryall in their own elevated ways, these once purely practical bags have officially found their way back into the fashion conversation. And honestly? We’re not mad about it; just ask Alex Mill.

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I have quite a divisive opinion about this time of year, in that I absolutely love it. While everyone else is mourning the end of summer, I'm feeling rejuvenated by the cooler temperatures and the ability to be outside for longer than 20 minutes without having to drench myself in sun cream, down five litres of water and wear a hat (my dark haired girls will understand).

So when it comes to discussing an autumnal wardobe, knitwear is my happy place. Not only is it a sign that my favourite season is upon us, but a good knitwear collection can see you effortlessly through the colder months in style.

The knitwear category has more variety than ever, expanding far beyond the traditional jumpers and cardigans to include a range of silhouettes and styles that offer endless styling opportunities. This season, there's a heavy focus on reinventing classics and an injection of colour. On the runway Miu Miu disrupted an otherwise neutral collection with bright v-necks and cardigans, while Chanel put a spotlight on the knitted tank, using longline proportions to create a drop-waist effect.

As the start of a new season has us re-thinking our wardrobes, I recommend building a solid capsule around great knitwear. Below, I've compiled an edit of the six trends I feel will not only tick several trend boxes, but will work hard with what you already own. Read on to find out more.

5 Knitwear Trends for Autumn 2026

1. Turtleneck Cardigans

Style Notes: The funnel-neck obsession has made its way into knitwear. If you love an elegant little cardigan, this trend is for you. The high neck elongates the frame, creating a sleek silhouette, so it's perfect for slip and column skirts or a cute pair of capri pants. It's also a great layering piece to wear under a blazer or a chunkier, oversized cardigan.

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2. Short Sleeve Jumpers

Style Notes: The silhouette of a short-sleeve t-shirt gives so much to our everyday wardrobe, so it only makes sense for that silhouette to have a place in our knitwear collections too. It's a super elegant take on knitwear that subtly adds dimension and texture without feeling too heavy. It's a versatile piece that will go well with everything from jeans and skirts to tailored trousers, so if you're going to invest in one new piece of knitwear this season, I'd make it this.

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3. Colourful V-Neck Jumpers

Style Notes: V-necks have definitely taken a back seat in recent years, overtaken by our love for the crew-neck, but they're having a resurgence for autumn and this time around they're far from boring. There's contrast necklines and lace details, but the biggest v-neck trend is definitely colour, and the brighter the better. Make them the centre of your outfit by keeping everything else neutral, or use them to create a striking colour-block look.

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4. Half-Zip Jumpers

Style Notes: With its sporty, outdoorwear origins, the half-zip jumper adds a touch of cool to an outfit while remaining polished. On its own and zipped-up you create a slouchy funnel-neck vibe, while undone can feel quite sexy. Layer over a t-shirt or roll-neck and you've got an outfit that looks considered but has required very little effort.

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5. Knitted Vests

Style Notes: Probably the most transitional, year-round item on this list, the knitted tank will work hard in your autumn wardrobe. On warmer days, it looks great on its own with a midi skirt, and when things get colder the layering options are endless, from t-shirts and rollnecks to shirts and even dresses.

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6. Fair Isle

Style Notes: If you're looking for a timeless print that has a bit more substance than a check or a stripe, look to Fair Isle knits. They embody the essence of being sat under a blanket by the fire in a wooden cabin somewhere secluded and peaceful, and everyone wants a bit of that, even if it's just in jumper form. There's a vast range of styles, from traditional to modern reworkings of the print, but whichever you go for you can rest assured all you need are jeans and a pair of chunky boots for a winning outfit formula.

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As someone who swears by the careful art of a well-balanced capsule wardrobe, you might think it's a touch out of character to be discussing the biggest microtrends of autumn 2026. But alas, you would be wrong. You see, whilst I remain picky about what enters my rotation, I’ve always believed in clever ways to embrace trends without abandoning your staples (or buying something you'll later regret). Think about colour, shape, or style and suddenly the pieces you know and love will be lent a new lease of life. Because if we’re honest, although you can never go wrong with a pair of straight-leg jeans, a fresh white T-shirt or a cashmere cardigan, sometimes we crave a little update (perhaps an unexpected pattern, playful print or interesting colour) to give our go-to looks a new lease of life.

Putting my fashion-editor brain to good use, I looked at the trends that cropped up on the autumn/winter 2026 runways and, crucially, what the fashion set is already snapping up and wearing. And boy, do I have an edit for you. There are boho patterns, statement-making details and so much more to get into, so if you're looking for some quick wins to ease you into a new season of dressing, scroll on.

The 6 Coolest Microtrends Fashion People Will Be Wearing This Autumn

1. All About Animal

Style Notes: Be it leopard, zebra or deer, this autumn is set to be a wild one, with animal print prowling back into the spotlight once more. Adding a playful pop to neutrals whilst projecting a strong image of confidence and power, this season, forget styling them in neat head-to-toe blocks. Instead, animal prints are being used to accentuate vibrant hues, or (for the more adventurous amongst us) mixed and matched for deliciously maximalist energy.

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2. Casual Camo

Style Notes: If the mass of camo print on your social media feeds makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into the Destiny’s Child Survivor music video, you wouldn’t be the only one. Loved for its utilitarian, almost anti-fashion appeal, camo has (almost ironically) become one of the coolest motifs to wear. Grounded in essence whilst pairing well with both neutrals and vibrant hues alike, it's already been picked up by an array of It girls. So whether you choose to channel Alexa Chung and pair yours with ballet flats and a waistcoat, or take a slightly more directional approach with a fringed peplum top like Aimee Song (pictured above), this practical print is ready to be put to work this autumn.

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3. Fanciful Fringe

Style Notes: We've seen all manner of tactile textures so far this year, but nothing has quite captivated the fashion set like the arrival of tassels. As fashion continues to turn its back on quiet luxury, this decorative embellishment is making a very convincing comeback, injecting a sense of playfulness, movement and visual joy into everything it touches. Whether woven into your favourite bags and shoes, adorning dresses or taking centre stage in multiple elements of a look (see Caroline Lin above), tassels are proving that sometimes more really means more.

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4. Pretty Paisley

Style Notes: Here at Who What Wear UK, we’ve been quietly predicting the return of paisley print for some time, and as we turn the corner into autumn, it seems like the day has finally arrived. Inherently bohemian with a hint of retro charm, today's iterations feel worlds away from the psychedelic paisleys of The Beatles days. Instead, think muted hues worked into sumptuous satin jackets or decorating your favourite pair of jeans. It's the same print we know and love, but decidedly more polished and grown-up.

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5. Fluttery Feathers

Style Notes: As if fashion couldn’t get any more weird and wonderful this season, may I turn your attention to feathered accessories? Dynamic in their movement, deliciously tactile and instantly capable of adding a little theatrical drama to even the most pared-back looks, faux feathers have quickly become the go-to styling detail of choice for the It girls. Whether fluttering from the ear as oversized earrings or making a pretty statement pinned to a blazer, à la Sara Walker Ratliffe (pictured above), feathers are the fluffiest finishing touch you can choose right now.

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6. The Micro Crop

Style Notes: The autumn jacket microtrend I’m most interested in this year is the cropped button-up. And no, these aren’t the cropped trenches or big bombers we know and love. This season, they’re far more sculptural: think neat, close-to-the-body silhouettes that sit somewhere between a jacket and a blouse. They're perfect for warmer autumn days when you want a little structure without the bulk, particularly in a vivid hue styled with black capris or with a pair of fitted jeans and pointed-toe shoes, just like Daughter of a Hoarder (pictured above). It's an easy way to look polished without trying too hard.

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It might just be because of the what felt like never-ending heatwave we had here in the UK this summer, but I’m really starting to feel the chill in the air. And, as a makeup lover, I can only think about one thing: swapping out my simple beauty routines for heavier makeup trends perfectly suited to the autumnal weather. Gone are the days when overly hot temperatures meant I could only throw on a tinted SPF and a simple brown lip gloss, and in their place lies an opportunity to experiment with bolder makeup looks that let me express my creativity. And there’s no better way to do this than by looking at the trends set to dominate the season.

My first port of call for finding out these trends? Well, as someone who works in beauty, I’m lucky enough to have a contact book filled with professional makeup artists who, thanks to their years of experience, can get ahead of the pack and predict the hottest trends before anyone else. And last week I sat down with Fara Homidi, a New York-based makeup artist and founder of makeup brand Fara Homidi, to discover the five makeup trends that are set to be huge in autumn 2026. Working across runway shows and campaigns for the likes of Miu Miu, Hermès, Chloé, Ferragamo, Coperni and Off-White, Homidi is well-versed in predicting trends before they hit the mainstream. And the best part? I’ve rounded them up for you below so that you too can be in the know about the makeup trends that will dominate autumn 2026.

From cool-toned lips reminiscent of the ‘90s to future-forward two-toned eyelashes, keep scrolling to discover the five easy-to-recreate trends that I’m planning to try out this season.

1. Cashmere Eyes

Homidi says, "I’m predicting we’re going to see a lot more cashmere-coded eye looks this autumn. Take a soft taupe, warm brown or deep espresso depending on your skin tone and wash it around the entire eye for a soft, minky haze of colour. It should feel monochromatic, diffused and incredibly soft around the edges, almost like cashmere for the eyes. Finish with a brown mascara on both the top and bottom lashes to keep everything tonal, and the result will be a plush, soft-brown eye that feels effortless but still very considered for autumn."

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2. Cool-Toned Lips

"It’s official: the cool-toned lips that dominated the ‘90s are back for autumn 2026. But instead of an obvious one-dimensional liner, focus on creating a buffed-out, sculpted lip through layers of cool-toned neutrals. To do this, you’ll need to take a gradient of soft, medium and deeper taupe lip pencils and layer them strategically to create natural-looking dimension and a fuller, 3D pout. The softer shades diffuse and blend the contour while the deepest tone creates the structure and dimension. It’s less about an obviously lined lip and more about using colour to manipulate shape and volume. And I may have something coming later this autumn that will do just the trick...", says Homidi

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3. Weathered Cheeks

Homidi states that, "Instead of an overly pigmented blush look, why not try giving your cheeks a natural, windswept effect, like you’ve just come inside after a cold day or spent the afternoon skiing? Known by beauty insiders as the 'weathered cheeks' trend, you can get this look by applying a low-to-medium coverage blush toward the lower mid-face. Then use a translucent, natural-looking highlighter across the high points of the cheeks and even the eyelids to bring back a glowy, champagne sheen. It’s that contrast between cold-weather colour and fresh, reflective skin that makes it feel modern."

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4. Soft-Focus Skin

"Forget the dewy makeup looks we all opted for in summer, as well as the overly matte finishes that can often make the face feel dry; for autumn 2026, it’s all about skin that sits somewhere in the middle. Think about the way makeup looked in film photography throughout the 1990’s—softly diffused and blurred whilst still looking like skin. With radiance, but not an obvious shine, and coverage without the complexion ever feeling flat, the goal season isn’t flawless, but rather beautifully softened skin.", explains Homidi

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5. Two-Toned Lashes

Homidi says, "An updated, modern take on a 60’s eye, two-toned lashes create a unique sense of depth and dimension to your makeup looks. Not to mention, it looks extremely intentional and elevated, acting as an incredibly simple switch that changes the entire feeling of the eye. For a more natural look, opt for a black mascara on the upper lashes for definition and intensity, then a soft brown on the lower lashes for a softer, smokier contrast. Or go bold and add in a cobalt blue or rich burgundy that is sure to turn heads and earn you compliments."

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Once upon a time, in a fashion world that existed not too long ago, the Margiela Tabi was considered the most outlandish style of shoe a person could wear. Fast-forward to today, when even Kylie Jenner wears them on a date via Citibike, it takes more than a split toe to scare off non-fashion folk. We have jelly shoes fit for Polly Pocket, orthopaedic sports sneakers with velcro straps, neoprene and a high arch for support, "toe cleavage" and complete exposure therapy courtesy of Saint Laurent’s men’s PVC brogues and Chanel’s "sole-less" sandals. Fashion commentator Mandy Lee said it best when she declared us in a "freaky shoe era". No style, shape or hybrid is out of bounds, because fashion’s latest fetish doesn’t discriminate; it democratises.

Whilst we may be heading into autumn, let’s begin by paying summer’s most eccentric syles theirs dues. A while ago I waxed lyrical on the rise of "princess shoes", footwear that panders to our inner child who wanted to dress up in Cinderella’s glass slippers or Marie Antoinette’s mules. Jelly shoes might have made their return in 2025, but Chloe’s Chemena Kamali pushed the boundaries of shoe design fit for our seven-year-old selves by dropping her PVC jelly mules. Pastel and peep-toed, they echo the sentiment of Aqua’s lyrics of pure poetry: “Life in plastic, it’s fantastic".

But if plastic isn’t your thing, fear not, Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel Cruise collection has a sandal for you. Designed in black leather with long laces to be tied around the ankle, they look relatively traditional until you realise they have no sole. Half the shoe, but not half the price.

Back in June, when the menswear spring/summer 2027 shows were presented, it was clear they too got the message. Lace-up ballet flats at Dries van Noten, derby jazz shoes and barely there sandals at Celine and—wait for it—transparent pointed PVC brogues and boots at Saint Laurent. Woof! Some of these styles aren't yet available, but they still set the tone for the season ahead. And as we all declared an end to quiet luxury and the rebirth of maximalism, our tippy-toes got the bedazzled treatment. A harem of toe rings, charm anklets and embellished flip-flops filled our Instagram feeds, and this was just the beginning. 2026 has been declared the year of whimsy more than once, and what's more whimsical than Chanel’s haute couture show being inspired by fairytales such as Jack and the Beanstalk? With golden eggs, ornate butterflies and decorated legumes for heels, the collection made JW Anderson’s frog clogs of 2023 or BHIVE’s duck flippers feel like child’s play.

Princess mules or butterfly-and-beanstalk heels; what’s clear is that "freaky" no longer simply equates to "ugly". In fact, autumn/winter 2026's most outlandish styles are prettier than ever. There are Tory Burch's embellished pumps, Dior’s waterlily sandals and Prada’s feathered and beaded lime green lace-up boots, and the level of intricacy and craftsmanship proves that there’s method in the madness.

Dior’s director of footwear design, Nina Christen, is responsible for the house’s brilliantly bold designs under Anderson’s leadership. If one were speaking in musical terms, the autumn/winter couture 2026 footwear collection was a seminal album with a no-skip tracklist. Bows, beads, feathers and florals upon taffeta silks and pastel mesh: every inch of shoe was a smorgasbord of fabulously fun, feminine decoration.

But what else can we expect from shoes in A/W 26? Another Mandy Lee prediction that came to fruition (because honestly, when does she miss?) was the presence of hair. Simone Rocha, Dries van Noten, Erdem, Marni and Miu Miu are offering everything from ballet flats to boots with shearling exteriors and long-haired toes that give zero f**ks whether it rains or pours, because they’re not made with practicality in mind.

Looking at the runways, if you were thinking some styles felt somewhat familiar, you’d be correct. The Valentino Garavani Rockstud returns with a new 'do courtesy of Alessandro Michele, and Gucci’s monogrammed foldable-heel courts might just be tempting us with the return of logomania (yes, it's due a comeback, but you heard it here first). Others are reminiscent of a bygone era much further back than the 2000s or 2010s, however. We all know this time of year is the season of the witch, and with Practical Magic 2’s release, it couldn’t be a more welcome time for Victorian footwear to come to the fore. Lace-up boots might have been trending since last winter, but it’s the elasticated Khaite courts with their turned-up toe that have a distinctly spooky feel.

As such, whether you’re looking for shoes fit for a princess, a witch or to allude to the fairytale-loving inner child within us all, I think Nile Rogers said it best: "Le freak, c’est chic"!

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From Versace's face skirt to Chanel's drop-waist styles, we're currently living in through a party skirt redux. Nowhere was this more apparent than in the key autumn skirt trends. Though skirts rarely receive the attention that jeans, loafers or leather jackets do come this time of year, sleeping on their possibilities would be a shame.

Skirts offer a break from the occasional mundanity of trousers. And, depending on the trend you explore, they transcend simply being another style of bottoms. They become sculptural elements, a route for creative expression and a more interesting way to jazz up the silhouette you’d wear in any of your go-to autumn outfits. Plus, with winter ahead, time feels limited for making the most of a skirt—at least without tights.

Do skirts really change that much year-to-year? I’d argue both yes and no, if you’ll allow me. The same motifs, prints and fabrics do often show face when autumn arrives (plaid, leather, wool… you get the gist). But it always surprises me the number of innovative ways designers find to make them feel fresh. How else would florals continuously hold their place as an emblem of spring if it weren’t for this type of creativity? Speaking of which, autumn is co-opting the spring hallmark this season.

More specifically, brocade florals, which feel distinctly primed for autumn. These textured skirts flitted and floated down the autumn/winter 2026 runways at Balmain, Kallmeyer, Saint Laurent, Chanel and Dries Van Noten. Floral brocade also hints at the other skirt trends for this season, as many of them err one of two ways. The first being bohemian with that notably witchy edge that only materialises this time of year. (Just look at Fendi's all-black lace skirts and Simone Rocha's lace pencil skirts).

On the other side of the trend spectrum sit sharper silhouettes and cleaner edges, from Miu Miu’s knee-length pencil skirts, revamped and modernised from the early 2010s, and the trickle of zipper-laden skirts found at Hermès and Eckhaus Latta. The rest, such as asymmetric hemlines and boldly embellished surfaces, all manage to fit neatly somewhere in the middle.

So yes, while you will see familiar elements, you’ll also notice unique details that set these autumn skirt trends apart from previous years. And there is clearly plenty to experiment with. Scroll on for the six key autumn skirt trends that will no doubt dictate what we wear throughout the season.

The 7 Key Autumn 2026 Skirt Trends

1. Blooming Brocade

Style Notes: Groundbreaking? Yes, actually. Whilst spring and summer are most often preceded by a haze of flower prints of all types and sizes, autumn is seeing a resurgence of this motif, in a way that feels more fitting for shorter days and colder temperatures. Specifically, florals are appearing in brocade textures and materials, which provides each flower with more tactility and depth. The colour combinations are also richer, as are the patterns, which are reminiscent of carpet and textile bags found within this year’s bohemian autumn dressing attire. That said, brocade still has a slightly more polished finish to it. Think less quilted and more opulent.

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2. Zip It

Style Notes: What can one do to revitalise the humble zipper? Quite a lot, it turns out. This isn’t a reinvention of the wheel, per se, but many designers have chosen to take this common functional element and push it into the spotlight rather than hide it within this year's classic autumn outfits. Whilst 2025 saw knitted zip-ups, 2026 has moved to zippered skirts. There’s something that feels slightly risky about a full-zip skirt. The metal teeth already give it an edge, but having one run down the centre or sides of a skirt feels like living a little more boldly (even if it purely exists for decorative purposes). If this inspires you, look no further than Victoria Beckham’s take, which pushes the trend further with fully sheer knee-length skirts featuring full-length zippers.

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3. Bohemian Chic

Style Notes: Bohemian fashion trends are maintaining their longevity—right in time for the season when you expect this particular style. The free-spirited, gauzy looks of summer are transforming into garments that feel a little more earthy, grounded and a touch witchy. This pertains to skirts, too. You can look to Zimmermann's spliced scarf handkerchief-hem skirt, which looks as if you took a variety of finds from your grandmother's closet and sewed them together. Or, take Chloé's approach in combining a classic autumn pattern (plaid) and rendering it in a tiered manner for a distinctly boho finish. Just peruse through your favourite boho brands, and you'll find there is much to choose from for your wardrobe.

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4. Uneven Cut Gems

Style Notes: Hovering more closely to the camp of sculptural and artistic are asymmetric skirts, which were abundant at this season’s shows. No length was left behind, as micro minis, midis and maxi skirts all arrived with unbalanced hemlines (intentionally so, of course). Some, such as Ann Demeulemeester's leant more into the ruffles and lace, giving it a categorisation akin to boho. Others, like those from Alaïa and Erdem, felt sculptural and polished, ready for a day at the office. We've seen asymmetric cardigans before, and even disconnected bobs in the world of hairstyling, yet despite the visual discordance, the skirts—and any garment with this lack of equilibrium—render beautifully.

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5. Long Live Lace

Style Notes: If you looked at the lace-trim skirt trend and thought “I want more,” this is your season. Rather than humbly remaining at the hems, lace has become the skirt this autumn. Bohemian in some respects and romantic in others, lace skirts for autumn are unsurprising, given the summer we had and the wash of Wuthering Heights-inspired pieces that followed this year’s film adaptation. Zimmermann's sheer lace skirts and Aje's lace tiers are a clear indication of its continuation into the season. But even full lace is remarkably versatile and available in so many variations outside of this. Simone Rocha's pencil skirt looked less romantic and more like a modern-day woman. Fendi's all-black lace had a goth edge. Saint Laurent even had a glimmering, "wet" finish to its lace skirts.

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6. Excellent Add Ons

Style Notes: Minimalism has reigned over a good portion of trends through the last decade. If it wasn’t the trend itself, it was the puppeteer behind what was booming in popularity; just look at the quiet luxury aesthetic, the move from chunky sneakers to low-profile, minimalist trainers and the obsession with brands like The Row and Celine. There’s a reason it’s so popular, but it was refreshing to see a turn toward the maximal and alternative once more. Trends do come in cycles, and the embellished skirts of autumn 2026 are telling. They’re not necessarily brash or in-your-face, but they are vibrant and artistic. Thoughtfully placed feathers hung from skirts on Mithridate's runway; Ujoh had zippers and tassels on its maxi skirts and Louis Vuitton featured mini skirts with painting elements and ceramic-like tiles.

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7. A Fine Point

Style Notes: It has come to my attention that pencil skirts haunt many of us who wore them through the '90s or 2010s, so you wouldn’t be out of touch to question their return. Their prevalence on the runways is what gives me the most faith—and who is rendering them. Leave it to Miuccia Prada to consistently create the pieces you’d secretly want to borrow from your little sister through Miu Miu, pencil skirt included. The shape is simple and well tailored, making it easy to dress up or slip into more unexpected outfits. Veronica Leoni at Calvin Klein also opted for simplicity, as did Lacoste and Tory Burch. Chanel took its iconic tweed route, funnelling its skirts into narrower proportions. One thing was obvious: the pencil has potential.

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Hear me out: autumn is arguably the easiest season to get dressed for. I've only said what we're all thinking, and yes, summer is the best weather (and holiday season), but cosy layering knits, great coats and, of course, a rich colour palette, all belong to autumn. Granted, every year, we see the same familiar colours begin to return to the stores (and if I see a wall full of khaki greens again, I may just scream), but just because a shade has become synonymous with autumn doesn't necessarily mean it still feels fresh.

In fact, in 2026, some of the colours we once relied on to make our autumn outfits feel effortlessly chic are starting to feel a little, well, dated. I loved quiet luxury as much as the next person, but the same rotation of neutrals has had its moment and now feels more closely associated with a particular aesthetic or era than with up-to-date dressing. If I say, "aubergine", don't you immediately imagine '90s leather? Or how about "olive green"? There's something distinctly 2000s about it. But before you think I'm suggesting you need to banish them from your wardrobe entirely, there are certain shades that I think could make your favourite autumn staples feel even more current.

Never one to suggest a complete wardrobe overhaul, I'm a believer that swapping one familiar shade for a fresher alternative will reinvent the way you style yourself this season. Sorry, beige; there are plenty of sophisticated hues ready to challenge you for the title of "most expensive-looking colour".

So, before you reach for the same chocolate-brown coat and white T-shirt combo you've worn on repeat for the past few years, it's time to take a good look at the autumn colours that are starting to feel "dated", plus the elegant alternatives fashion insiders are turning to instead. Consider this your guide to giving your autumn wardrobe a subtle but very effective colour refresh.

1. Raspberry Pink

Swap for: Spicy Red

Style Notes: If there’s one colour set to inject some much-needed energy into our autumn wardrobes, it’s vibrant, spicy red. It's no stranger to our wardrobes, as this bold hue popped up in the 2023 collections, but it continues its reign into A/W 26, with vibrant scarlet and chilli-red shades making a particularly strong statement on the runways. Instead of being reserved as a pop of colour in the form of bags and shoes, this season’s red is surprisingly versatile—coats, dresses and even jeans for an instant outfit lift.

Whilst deep pinks may always naturally crop up in autumnal palettes along with other jewel tones, bright red feels fresher and more directional for 2026. The easiest way to wear it? Treat it like a neutral and let one standout red piece do all the talking; my favourite pairing is a fluffy grey knit and black accessories to help ground such a buzzy hue.

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