Cosy szn, Libra szn, pumpkin spice latte szn – autumn means different things to different people, but for the Cosmo Fashion Team, it’s all about a new style season. Yep, changing temperatures mean it’s time to pack away our sundresses and bikinis *sob*. Until we remember that means reuniting with our favourite fluffy jumpers and knee-high boots. Not to mention shopping for those new-season must-haves to take your outfit to the next level. If you’re hunting for a silver lining to grey days, look no further.
From statement outerwear to party-ready accessories and eye-catching prints, there’s no shortage of trends to get excited about for autumn/winter 25. And when it comes to getting in on all the biggest looks, Next is your one-stop shop for runway-inspired pieces without the designer price tag to match. Music to our bank balance’s ears! Below, find our top tips for bringing your autumn wardrobe to life.
The coat *is* the outfit
Save yourself a fashion headache and make your jacket or coat the focal point of your entire ’fit. The easiest way to do this is with a faux-fur number. Tactile textures are a huge trend for A/W 25, meaning there’s no shortage of touchable styles to choose from. Tap into the chocolate-brown mania with a cute collared, cropped design in the rich hue that will work *so* well with pretty much everything in your wardrobe, no matter whether you’re heading out for brunch with your girls or to date night. If faux fur’s not for you, mix it up in a sumptuously soft velvet puffer in a festive berry hue (is it too early to mention the C-word?).
Red Velvet Padded Coat
Chocolate Brown Shaggy Faux Fur Coat
Chocolate Brown Faux Leather Zip Through Jacket
Not your grandma’s lace curtains
FYI, fashion has officially entered its dark-romance era. Leading the trend is lace, and it’s little wonder why. Somehow soft and sensual, but also moody and dramatic, your lace pieces may be the hardest working in your autumn wardrobe. For maximum impact, we’re all for wearing lace tops and blouses constructed entirely out of the sheer, delicate fabric. Style with denim (barrel jeans are our current go-to) for an unexpected pairing of laid-back and luxe that makes a cool, casual weekend look. To emphasise more of the former – think prim, proper and polished – lace-trim hems and finishing flourishes at necklines and cuffs offer just a hint of opulence while oozing undone elegance. Consider us obsessed!
Paisley Lace V-Neck Blouse
Green Sequin Midi Skirt With Lace Trim
Purple Flocked Velvet Button Down Long Sleeve Top
Premium Beaded Cami Top
Pretty in plaid
Forget florals and say so long to polka dots (for now). This autumn, it’s all about plaid, check and tartan print – same, same but different thanks to minor variations in each design. Don’t worry, we won’t bore you with the details. All you need to know is, whichever you opt for, mixing these bold patterns into your look is the easiest way to dial up dreary days. Plus, the styling options are endless! Lean into tartan’s heritage feel in a primary-colour printed kilt worn with a chunky cable-knit. A plaid top has more of a grunge feel, especially when paired with dark-wash denim and ankle boots, while a pleated check mini oozes preppy appeal. The easiest way to try this trend is with a check-print midi dress that has instant interest, even when worn on its own. Make this your autumnal substitute for gingham.
Spliced Check Mini Skirt
Metallic Check Smocked Long Sleeve Blouse
Check Knee Length Kilt Skirt
Check Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
Add an accessory (or two!)
The easiest way to try out the new-season trends while adding a touch of luxury to your outfit is with accessories. When it comes to arm candy, chocolate-brown suede styles still reign supreme, only rivalled by a cute faux-fur clutch or tote. Want to tick off two trends in one? Try a textured animal-print design. Leopard, cow and even dalmatian prints are all big winners this season. Alternatively, bow adornments are just as popular, offering a more feminine aesthetic across bags and belts that’s perfect for party szn. As for jewellery, there’s no need to limit yourself as either a gold or silver girl when mixing your metals has never been chicer. BRB, raiding our jewellery boxes and putting everything on…
Burgundy Large Shoulder Bag
Silver Bow Skinny Stretch Belt
Tabitha Simmons X Next Lyra Chunky Chain Necklace
Black Velvet Bow Detail Hand Held Bag
All items featured are available now at next.co.uk and selected UK stores.
*All stock subject to availability. Delivery exclusions apply. Check next.co.uk for full terms and conditions
Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
