Given the perplexing forecast this summer, we’re already hot on the heels of autumn at Who What Wear UK. The change in seasons is afoot and autumnal dress trends have begun to dominate prematurely. An influx of our favourite ready-to-wear pieces from February’s runways have been landing on luxury retailer sites and have inspired the high street alike. Like the micro mini was to S/S 22, dresses spearheaded 2023’s autumn/winter shows. As a dedicated lover of frocks, it’s cause for celebration and an invitation to bring forth my favourite styles, give or take some seasonal adjustments.
Dress offerings for the coming season are nothing short of inspirational. They’re unapologetically baroque, and a variety of styles were forecast at the shows. Designs showcased comprised jewel tones, feather adornments and gauzy fabrics in excess, to name but a few of the flourishes designers blessed us with. Styles from Christopher Kane to Chanel took to the runway in elongated proportions, sheer fabrics and partywear-inspired looks to bookmark for (dare I say it) end-of-year celebrations.
Channelling the “more is more” sentiment and bulbous corsage detailing of this summer, autumn dress trends have transitioned to styles of a similar ilk but with darker hues and autumn-appropriate textures. “Main-character” dressing has inspired an influx of avant-garde and wonderfully lurid styles. Adornments have become the protagonist of dressing, and an appreciation of flowers (we mustn’t forget Loewe or Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s anthurium tributes in the spring) has preserved and paved the way for myriad adornments. Florals have been joined by ’20s-style feather gowns, ruffles, peplum shapes and frothy tulle, courtesy of Zimmerman and Paul & Joe, to name but a few.
Designers continued to revert to throwback heroes like the ‘90s slip dress, proving the longstanding appeal of Y2K-inspired fashion, though this year it boasts a mature and refined feel that lovers of classic styles can appreciate.
I’ve assessed the autumn 2023 dress trends to bring you nine styles that are guaranteed to inspire this autumn. Keep reading to discover the dress trends that will be dominating fashion in the upcoming season.