WITH the new season approaching, it’s the perfect time to look for the pieces you may want to add to your wardrobe for the rest of 2026 – and beyond.
But shopping for new trends can be overwhelming, and many people will hesitate to buy new items.
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If you’ve ever stood in a shop and been plagued with thoughts of ‘how long will this be in style?’ and ‘will this work with my body, for my age?’ you’re not alone.
Around 68 per cent of people say knowing what to buy is easier than how to actually wear something, according to new research from Asos.
But fear not, Fashion Editor Abby McHale has the rundown of four of the top trends that will see you through this season and the items that will stay in style for years to come.
Here, she also explains exactly how to wear them, whatever your age, shape or size…
BOMBER JACKETS
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Bomber jackets came back to the high street at the start of this year, and they’re set to be bigger than ever for autumn and winter; you’ll see them in every store.
A great transitional piece, they come in a variety of fabrics ranging in thickness to keep you cool in September and warm in December.
Plus, it’s a jacket that works for all ages.
Opt for more tailored pieces to give it that elevated lift, or sporty style if you want something more casual.
A smart pair of jeans like these from F&F at Tesco, or a satin-like gown that you can wear underneath the jacket, is perfect.
Pops of red are still big for this season, so jackets like this Zara one really do tick all the boxes.
For when the weather is warmer wear with…
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For when the weather is colder wear with…
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ELEGANT SHEER
The thought of dressing in something sheer may strike fear in some, but don’t panic.
Sheer is a big trend this season, and there’s an elegant way to tastefully adapt this look whatever your age, shape or size.
Take the dress pictured above from Michelle Keegan’s range at Very; the only sheer part is the bottom of the dress, whilst the top half remains covered with a flattering draped detail across the waist.
If you don’t want bare legs on full show, then a pair of knee-high boots will do the trick, like these on-trend wedge heels from Tu at Sainsbury’s.
Looking ladylike is also another big trend for A/W, so why not double up by adding a stylish tweed jacket over the dress and some court heels.
For when the weather is warmer wear with…
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For when the weather is cooler wear with…
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SHADES OF PURPLE
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Deep purple has come through as one of the top colour trends for this next season after being seen on the runways of Gucci and Chloe.
Fitting the autumnal vibe with its deep, rich tone, this shade screams opulence.
These wide-leg trousers from River Island tick the box trend-wise, but also something that can work hard, dressed up or down and last longer than just a seasonal trend item.
Tonal dressing always makes you look well put together and elongates your body as it creates a streamlined vertical line from head to toe.
Plus, ruched knot details like this top from Next are perfect for those who want to create a more structured look on their middle.
Checks are also here to stay this season, so pairing this with the purple really hits the spot for autumn.
For when the weather is warmer, wear with…
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For when the weather is colder, wear with…
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TIGER PRINT
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Leopard has dominated the animal print trends for the last few years; however, there’s a new wild cat in town.
Thanks to the likes of Fendi, tiger print has made its way onto the high street this month.
A print like this is already bold, so don’t feel like you need to go OTT and wear it head to toe.
Take this tiger print midi skirt from M&S, for example, making the orange tone not super vibrant gives the skirt a more grown-up feel.
The wide darts at the top of the skirt make it flow into pleats that will skim over your waist, making this skirt super flattering.
Let the tiger print do the talking and keep the rest of your look fairly tonal.
Pops of red go nicely, either in a shoe like these ballet flats or in a knit.
For when the weather is warm, wear with…
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For when the weather is colder wear with…
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