By Rachel Weisz
A blessing of living on a lonely island south of the international fashion calendar is the fact that we have first dibs on the trends that walk down the runway. As we scan the Autumn/Winter shows from New York, London, Paris and Milan, coats, jackets, and other winter necessities become the inspiration for new trends, which Australians can replicate first as their winter season is just getting started.
Some of the trends that we saw this 2024 season were fantastical and experimental, including an array of plaids and grungier affairs as seen at Chloe and Burberry. Texture was seen through coats and jackets at Gabriela Hearst, Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen. Cravings for a more corporate affair were also apparent, which was possibly a duality against the previous hunger for easy and accessible comfort we have experienced over the recent winters due to the pandemic. We are no longer content with the ease of loungewear and are now open to experimenting with dressing up and finding new and contemporary ways to wear different pieces. Everyday pieces appear easily elevated, and that is what we’re going to see this Autumn — an elevated sense of control with our clothes.
But while many of these international collections have yet to drop, consumer demand remains high. Lucky for us, we have many top-tier Australian brands to turn to as the season cools down. That is why The Pull dedicates each new season to highlighting the best Australian designer and locally made pieces that will seamlessly fit into your wardrobe.
Continue below to read our favourite Autumn finds.
The trench coat
The trench is Autumn’s must-have staple for the season, especially on our Australian shores where the weather turns on its heels every five minutes. Play with the cooler season’s moody sensibilities, incorporating earth tones like brown, beige and grey into your wardrobe, or perhaps if you’re after a little more edge — opt for a denim trench like this Camilla and Marc number.
The warm and fuzzy knit
Nothing is better than cosying up with your favourite sweater, accompanied by a warm coffee in hand as a temporary escape from imminent autumn chills. Versatility is your best friend this season. Choosing a natural fabric such as merino or alpaca wool will have a breathable composition, making it the easy-to-wear piece for work or a night out with friends.
The button-down shirt
Speaking of versatility, a button-down accompanied by your favourite knit is a must-have combo for the autumn season. A button-down is the perfect layering piece, whether that be under a sweater, corset or over a thermal once the season reaches its chilly peak. It also doesn’t need to be boring; take Anna Quan’s corsetted Frankie shirt, or cult favourite Em on Holiday’s hibiscus beach shirt for a casual alternative. A button-down can also play as a light layer over a cami, or tucked into a pair of trousers for some serious business.
The everyday dress
A day dress is the perfect opportunity to play with parts of your personality. It is a statement piece that speaks for itself, but is also typically easy to layer with other pieces should the weather take a cool turn. For example, opt for this Nadja mini dress by Faithful the brand on it’s own or with a light denim jacket, but then once the weather changes, add a white or coloured long sleeve top underneath, accompanied by knee-high boots and tights if needed. A midi dress is also a perfect alternative for the cooler seasons, such as the Donovan corded midi dress by Alémais which is fully lined and made of a thick organic cord drill.
The blazer
The 2020s have been defined by oversized blazers — quite often resembling something from your dad’s closet — so it is no surprise that this Autumn again calls for oversized silhouettes. The devil is in the details; play with the size of the lapels as well as the buttons and sleeve length. The perfect blazer should not drown you, but rather act as a statement piece instead.
The work-to-weekend trousers
Much like the blazer, wide-leg trousers have defined the era. However, as we are heading well into the decade, the definition of a workwear trouser seems to be changing. Pants are now more relaxed, offering an easy-to-wear silhouette that is both chic and oftentimes casual. If you’re after something a little bit different, swap your regular work trousers for these parachute pants by Sister Studios, paired with some kitten heels and your favourite blazer to achieve a sporty-chic look.
The vest
Vests have had a rise in popularity over recent years, with similar sentimentalities stemming from your father’s closet in the 80s/90s. Again, this versatile style allows you to layer for those cooler days when it may not be enough for a jacket, but too cold to go without. Whether you’re after a sporty vibe, or after something a little more kitschy, there are a large array of vests to choose from. Below are two of our recent favourites from two iconic Australian brands.
The jeans and a cute top combo
Mesh and see-through tops have been our go-to’s for the season, adding a hint of sexiness to a long layer. Asymmetry also adds a bit of playfulness to a look. Designers such as Christopher Esber have done this trend well, such as the veiled top (below) which was recently seen on fan favourite Greta Lee. Oats The Label also has a wonderful selection of asymmetrical tops in a variety of colours, all made to order by the local brand.
The denim
Moving away from the low-rise, slouchy and oversized silhouettes of recent years, Autumn 2024 has gone back to a more slimline era, though don’t fret — skinny jeans are not back (yet)! Nobody Denim’s hardy jeans are a good middle ground, with a relaxed straight-line fit that is easy to pair up or down with your favourite top (see above).
The cosy cardi
Not everyone has a sartorial proclivity towards cardigans, but with the rise of hyper feminine aesthetics such as croquette, barbiecore and other youthful endeavours, slim-line cardis have made a comeback in an era of oversized fits. Emma Mulholland on Holiday does a playful rendition of a Y2K cardi, featuring pink hibiscus flowers among other flora. For a pop of extra colour, the Leyster cardi by Lee Matthews is an excellent choice.
The date night dress
A date night dress in the Autumn period should have the ability to be dressed up or down, and layered when needed as it does get cooler in the evening time. We are embracing cool blues this season, as well as playing with shape and asymmetry to add a bit of interest to the garment. Following on the hyper-feminine girlhood trend, have a play with lace and frills, which can also add edge to a garment. The empire silhouette, which has fabric draping from the bust creating a playful silhouette is an ode to the regency-era core reinvigorated by cult-favourite British drama Bridgerton.
The versatile skirt
Maxi skirts are IN this season, following on from last year. However, this time we will probably see a bigger mix of overall proportions, playing with long coats and t-shirts that fall to the thigh and over the skirt. However, you simply cannot go wrong with a short little black skirt which will go with everything. Try this one by Country Road, the knit mini skirt has a thicker composition which is perfect for the Autumn season and beyond.
The ultimate accessories
Chunky accessories add such a cool vibe, instantly elevating an outfit to new heights — such as this chunky fob chain necklace by Manning Cartell. Autumn also calls for a bag that fits it all, such as this hefty black Milano tote, with a ready-to-go design big enough for an umbrella, your latest magazine, a sweater and anything else you need for the day.
The staple shoe
The beauty about Mary Jane pumps is they look good with socks, stockings or just on their own! Choose one to fit your overall vibe, like the Alias Mae Lucie’s for a sophisticated chic look, or these Charles and Keith checkered slingbacks for something a little grungier. A trend that is also following on from last season are biker boots. The vintage vibes add a retro aspect to any look, and look especially cool paired with any skirt in your wardrobe.
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