Five Key Trends: AW16

Posted by Fifi Faiz on November 27, 2016

Boldness is the word for this season. The runways for AW16 fashion were a display of glitter and lurex, brightly coloured furs, oversized sports streetwear, puffy coats and velvety Victorian-inspired pieces. Models strutted down the catwalks in red oversized couture tops, chokers of all sizes, one-shoulder patent leather ensembles and David Bowie platform boots, bringing together different decades.

We’ve gathered our favourite – and most wearable - AW16 trends that you should definitely incorporate in this winter’s wardrobe.

1. Vinyl

It’s all about Vinyl this year – as part of the big 80s comeback, shiny mini-skirts and patent leather coats are all the rage this season. Several designers opted for the vinyl trench coat, an unusual (and very eighties) combination of chicness and functionality. Warmer than the classic trench coat but more of a statement piece than a winter coat.

As seen at Dior, Lanvin, Loewe, Proenza Schouler and Isabel Marant.

2. Velvet

This season’s cosiest but also most sophisticated fabric was spotted both in dramatic, sparkling evening gowns and tuxedo suits, and in more demure tops and blazers. Deep blue velvet and black were big at Armani and Ralph Lauren, but shades of burgundy, blush and maroon were also popular, as seen at the Prada, Roland Mouret and Valentino shows.

As seen at: Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren, Prada, Alberta Ferretti.

3. 80s One-shoulder

The Eighties are here to stay. Designers have slowly been incorporating Eighties style details into their collections over the past few seasons, so it’s no surprise that this year’s statement piece is one of the big trends of the rock’n’roll decade. One-shoulder dresses and tops worn with patent leather and smokey eyes are guaranteed to turn heads this winter.

As seen at: Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, Isabel Marant.

4. Ballet nudes

Another key trend seen on the catwalks were delicate silhouettes in different shades of nude and blush. Irresistibly light fabrics and skin-coloured materials were spotted in several shows, as well as lace up ballet flats. Make sure to have at least one nude ballet-inspired piece, the options are plentiful; long skirts, satin finishes, pleats, ruffles, nude bodysuits and jumpers are all in for this winter.

As seen at: Valentino, Hermès, Stella McCartney, Acquazzurra.

5. Statement choker

The Nineties choker made a big comeback last season in its original form - thin, black velvet ribbon. This season is all about embellished statement chokers that fully cover your neck with big stones and sparkly details, and come in a variety of materials and colours. The beauty of this trend is that depending on the style of choker it can be worn both with a casual daytime outfit and with a more polished evening look.

As seen at: Balmain, Lanvin, Loewe, Dries Van Noten