You probably know this by now: Team Who What Wear loves a microtrend. We're always keen to decode the runways in order to bring you a realistic line-up of the most influential looks you'll want to incorporate into your own wardrobe each season (and autumn/winter 2021 is looking particularly tempting already) but there's no denying the power of an up-and-coming item, styling idea, colour or detail that hasn't yet hit the big time or been splashed all over the catwalks. Nothing says in-the-know quite like a niche trend, and we're PHD-level hunters in this field.
Our predictions ahead of summer were spot on: Key pieces we put bets on, such as fisherman sandals, floppy fabric hats and corsets, have not only spread far and wide on social media, but they've been present on the streets and at our favourite retailers too.
This forthcoming season is an interesting mix of joyful outfits (think bright colours, shiny accessories, crafty finishes and bold layering combinations) and über practicality (comfy suits, chunky flat boots, classic coats), so there's a spectrum of offshoot trends that cater for the minimalists and the maximalists out there. If you sit somewhere in the middle, lucky you—your choices are almost endless. However, I've managed to filter through all of the early indicators of new ideas to bring you an edit of 10 autumn microtrends that I think will take over. Keep scrolling to get the lowdown.
1. MAXI TUBE SKIRTS
Just when we thought we'd plundered the '90s and '00s for everything good, along comes this maxi-tube-skirt revival. From black jersey through to knitted, cosier styles, there's a very strong chance that hemlines are going to drop for the foreseeable. Pair with a matching top for extra points.
2. AZURE BLUE
Candy pink and Kermit green have paved the way for a host of similarly vibrant colours to come into play this year. We're seeing a lot of orange, purple and yellow, but it's this shade of punchy blue turquoise that feels freshest. Also, it works well with other blues, denim and darker autumnal shades, so it will move easily into the new season.
3. PATCHWORK TOPS
Another Y2K trend that's picking up steam on IG and TikTok is crafty patchwork tops. The more homemade the better. They range from retro shirts to mesh second-skin styles, so you can pick a silhouette and fabric that suits your closet the most.
4. SHORT NECKLACES
Sometimes it's the most subtle things that make an outfit look current and right now there's a shift towards very short necklaces, aka collar necklaces. They're not chokers and so most likely a lot more comfortable to wear, and they look great layered up with chains or any other delicate necklaces. Charming.
5. PLATFORMS
After many years in a row of single-sole shoes leading the pack, platforms are back with a bang. They're chunkier and more stacked than ever, coming through strong in sandal, boot and closed-toe shoe categories. Pick your fighter (and practice your walk).
6. DIAMANTE EVERYTHING
Since Freedom Day our wardrobes have been erring on the side of fab-u-lous and no longer are we saving party gear for special occasions. Crystals, diamanté and anything sparkly is totally up for grabs and to be worn casually during the day.
7. DRESSES OVER TROUSERS
A simple layering hack that oozes confidence, wearing a dress over trousers or jeans can give you extra mileage from pieces you own and love but want to breathe a little extra life into.
8. GIANT JACKETS
Blazers seem to get bigger each month, so goodness knows what we'll be drowning in by December. Right now, the fit is boxy, long and very, very slouchy. Wear with matching trousers as a suit or fling over any existing outfit for a laid-back vibe.
9. CHUNKY WELLIES
Following on from last autumn's track-sole trend, chunky ankle boots have migrated north to become knee boots. Think of them as an elevated pair of wellies but don't just keep them aside for muddy walks: Try bare-legged with a shorter skirt, with jeans tucked in or peeking out from a midi dress.
10. CATSUITS (YES, REALLY)
The autumn/winter runways showcased a variety of catsuits but it seems this very specific trend is already gaining traction on social. Will it translate into the real world? I have a weird feeling it might—we all love leggings, don't we? And this is just a snazzy extension of that.
Next up, beach holiday outfits we're in love with.
