1. The Trench Coat Gets a Promotion
The classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple, but London designers decided it was time for an upgrade. At Burberry, Daniel Lee continued his mission to reinvent British icons, showing trenches in rich forest green leather and with oversized, fuzzy collars.
Elsewhere, coats came with dramatic lapels, asymmetrical cuts, or in unexpected materials like high-shine vinyl. This isn't your grandfather's beige raincoat. The takeaway: Think of the trench as your main statement piece, not just a practical layer. When shopping, look past the standard khaki. Could a deep burgundy, a dark olive, or even a faux-leather version work for you? Seek out interesting details like exaggerated belts, contrasting stitching, or a unique collar that sets it apart from the crowd. It’s about making a timeless silhouette feel personal and new again.
2. Statement Hosiery Is an Outfit
For years, legwear has been an afterthought. No more. Designers like Simone Rocha, a longtime champion of hyper-feminine details, sent models down the runway in delicate, embellished tights that demanded attention. We saw everything from intricate lace and bold, colorful patterns to sheer socks paired with pumps. The message was clear: what’s on your legs is just as important as the dress or skirt you’re wearing. The takeaway: This is one of the easiest and most affordable trends to adopt. You can completely transform a simple little black dress by adding a pair of bright red, floral-patterned, or fishnet tights. It’s a low-commitment way to add a dose of personality to looks you already own. Start with sheer black polka-dot tights for a subtle entry point, or go bold with a color that makes you happy.
3. Utility Wear, But Make It Luxe
The ghost of 90s cargo pants has been haunting us for a few seasons, but London gave the utility trend a sophisticated, grown-up makeover. Instead of baggy canvas, think tailored trousers with perfectly placed pockets, structured boiler suits in silk or wool, and field jackets cut with the precision of a blazer. It’s about borrowing the practicality of workwear but executing it in luxurious fabrics and sharp silhouettes. The takeaway: Ditch the sloppy connotations. Look for a pair of cargo or carpenter pants in a refined material like satin, tencel, or a crisp wool blend. Pair them with a cashmere sweater or a sharp blazer to create a compelling high-low mix. The key is the contrast—marrying the rugged, functional details of utility clothing with the polish of your best office-ready pieces.
4. Embrace Fuzzy, Tactile Textures
In a city known for its dreary weather, it’s no surprise that designers leaned into all things cozy. But this went beyond a simple sweater. JW Anderson showed shaggy, almost Muppet-like knitwear, while Burberry featured coats with huge, fuzzy faux-fur collars. Shearling, mohair, and other highly touchable fabrics were everywhere, adding a layer of creature comfort and visual interest to outerwear and separates. The takeaway: Texture is your friend. A fuzzy sweater or a shearling-collared jacket adds instant dimension to an otherwise simple outfit of jeans and a t-shirt. Don’t be afraid of materials that look and feel substantial. When you’re shopping for fall and winter, run your hands over the fabrics. If it feels incredible, it will likely look even better, adding a sense of warmth and luxury.
5. The Peplum Is Back (But Better)
Just when you thought it was safe, the peplum has returned from its 2010s exile. But take a deep breath—this isn’t the floppy, unflattering ruffle you remember from your old business-casual tops. Designers like Tove and Erdem presented a more architectural, sculptural version. Think of it as a structured flare at the hip of a jacket or the waist of a dress, designed to create an elegant hourglass shape rather than just add bulk. The takeaway: Approach with an open mind. Look for peplum details on tailored jackets or structured tops where the flare is stiff and deliberate, not flimsy. It’s a powerful silhouette that can make a simple top or dress feel instantly more formal and fashion-forward. Pair a peplum top with slim, straight-leg trousers to balance the proportions and keep the look modern.
