Fashion month is always a glimpse into the future, a chance for brands to set their predictions for the trends that will define the season ahead. But while designers may be forecasting what’s next, there are plenty of simple styling tricks that can be embraced right now.
Whether it’s the return of the iconic Baguette bag, the rise (and rise) of preppy loafers or the prominence of head-to-toe red, the AW25 runways were filled with inspiration that can integrated into your current rotation. Here’s how to get ahead of the trends before they officially arrive.
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The Lasting Appeal Of The Loafer
The loafer has been on our minds since it stomped onto the Prada runway (and into our consciousness) in 2020. After many new iterations and silhouettes, this season’s collections have confirmed that the preppy shoe is here to stay. For AW25, Mrs. Prada’s classic loafer took on unexpected new forms, with open toes – a surprise breakout trend this season – and even extending up the legs into sleek, long boots.
Gucci revived its signature Horsebit loafer in a backless, slipper-like silhouette, reminiscent of the Alessandro Michele-era shoe, as the mega brand undergoes yet another creative transformation. Leather goods expert Tod’s squared off its loafers at the toe and gave them an ultra-flat sole, while Emporio Armani added a chunky, cleated base. How to wear them? Pair your loafers with statement ankle socks and a pleated skirt to channel the Doechii-inspired preppy aesthetic, or opt for wide-leg jeans for easy, off-duty appeal.
Red Alert
Scarlet, cherry, crimson, and oxblood – red has dominated the AW25 runways as the season’s defining shade. Look to Maximilian Davis’s red-tinted vision for Ferragamo for ultimate inspiration (note the runway sprinkled with crimson petal leaves) or opt for all over red like at Max Mara and Blumarine and coordinate your dress, bag, belt, tights and shoes in the head-to-toe hue.
For those who prefer a more subtle approach, Prada, Versace and Tod’s showcased just one statement red piece at a time, proving that the pigment can pack a powerful punch when used sparingly. Whether it’s a fire-engine red coat or a deep oxblood bag, injecting red into your wardrobe is a surefire way to embrace the season’s favourite shade.
Throw On A Big Faux Fur Coat
The one-and-done coat has emerged as the ultimate winter-style hack. Whether it’s an exaggerated silhouette, a pop of colour or a luxurious textured fabric, this is the one piece that does it all. Sleek black and brown fur coats were worn with little else at Prada. Gucci’s opening look paired a vintage-inspired faux fur coat with a tweed pencil skirt and a delicate lilac lace bra top – a similar style was also seen on the runways of Fendi and Ferragamo. Meanwhile, Etro and Dsquared2 took volume to the next level with floor-sweeping faux furs that added drama to their eclectic collections. The best part? This trend is easily replicable by giving vintage and pre-loved pieces a new lease on life.
The Baguette Is Back
Perched on the front row at Fendi’s 100th-anniversary show, Sex and the City’s very own Carrie Bradshaw (aka Sarah Jessica Parker) confirmed what we already suspected: the Baguette bag is officially back. First launched in 1997, the bag became a global sensation after it was established as the go-to accessory for Parker’s on-screen alter ego. Unsurprisingly, the internet exploded with ‘It’s a bag-uette’ memes as nostalgia for the iconic design surged post-show. The bag was reimagined on the AW25 runway in various sequin colourways. And if you're looking for the perfect vintage version, resale platforms are brimming with options – from classic monograms to all-over denim and embellishment.
Bag It Up
Why settle for one bag when you can have two? The multi-bag obsession continues this season, but now, designers are taking it to the next level. Ferragamo led the way with huge hybrid belt bags, better suited as bike panniers, while Tod’s colourful purses and miniature versions of Etro’s signature Vela bag swung from belt loops. Whether attached at the waist, slung across your shoulder or clipped onto a larger bag, this trend is all about the practical and the personal.
Say It With Your Chest
The logo tee is back in full force. Connor Ives and Ashish championed the return of the graphic tee at London Fashion Week, plastering political messaging across their’s while Dior reignited the nostalgia in Paris, bringing back the Y2K-era J’Adore Dior T-shirt. Once beloved by Carrie Bradshaw herself, the logo tee is a playful nod to fashion’s obsession with the early 2000s (which doesn’t seem to be wavering). Whether worn under a structured blazer, paired with baggy jeans, or styled with a faux fur bolero jacket, leather gloves and trousers like a Dior, this throwback piece is an easy way to inject some fun into your wardrobe.
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