At the culmination of the Fashion Week Autumn 2023 runway shows, strong trends began to emerge that you're probably now seeing everywhere, including bright colours, textured materials, edgy silhouettes, and romantic details alike. From metallic tones to boundary-pushing, going-out looks, American designers surfaced trends that remind us that fashion, at its core, is supposed to be fun.
Indeed designers came out in full force, offering wearable pieces that you could immediately be incorporated into anyone's wardrobe of essentials. Take leather, for instance. Walking down the runways were tailored leather camisoles and midi skirts from Khaite, oversize boho shirtdresses from Ulla Johnson, and bralettes and maxi skirts from Brandon Maxwell. High-fashion hoodies are also officially en vogue. Theory opted for the traditional hooded cropped jacket, while Carolina Herrera designed a floral ballgown with an added hoodie detail.
Of course, there was no shortage of autumn 2023 trends that make a decidedly bold statement. Designers from Sandy Liang to Prabal Gurung showed looks without trousers: full-coverage briefs styled with cropped lady jackets and sheer bodysuits. And Michael Kors and Rodarte embraced metallic sheen in silver and gold iterations. There were '70s-inspired shimmering jumpsuits, layered underneath camel coats, and party dresses with tinsel toppings fit for a 1920s soirée.
Ahead, check out seven autumn 2023 trends that reigned supreme throughout Fashion Week. And you can start wearing them as soon as tomorrow.
Metallic is officially in, whether you're wearing a mesmerising silver Rodarte dress or a shimmering gold Michael Kors jumpsuit. Designers are taking the metallic trend into all sections of your wardrobe for the coming season — to ensure that all eyes remain on you.
Leather is the material du jour for autumn, with designers from Coach to Brandon Maxwell walking a slew of buttery soft looks down the runway. There were matching suiting sets, long duster coats, low-rise midi skirts, and more. In classic tones of black, white, and tan, whether real or faux, it's a luxe material that instantly upgrades your look.
Though the Autumn 2023 runways have been rife with all sorts of bright colours, it's red that's come to the forefront of the seasonal palette. Consider it this coming season's version of Barbiecore pink: a bright pop that's rosy and warm, but a little bit more traditional than its neon counterpart.
Theory showed full monochromatic looks in the tone, while Tory Burch opted for pops of colour by way of knits and overcoats. And the vibrant trend works for evening as well: Carolina Herrera and Jason Wu both designed cocktail dresses and gowns in the vivid hue.
No trousers? No problem — at least according to New York Fashion Week. Sergio Hudson sent a tailored lady jacket down the runway with little more underneath than a pair of sheer black tights. Sandy Liang opted for the Victorian boudoir vibe, showing embroidered white sets that looked as though they were inspired by corset coverings. In between were showings of high-waisted briefs styled with everything from sheer bodysuits to '80s-era silk tops.
While you may very well incorporate this trend into your everyday wardrobe with the addition of a sheer skirt, it might be time to shed pants altogether, especially as the temperature begins to rise.
Brands from Proenza Schouler to Carolina Herrera tried out the hoodie look this season, with gowns and pullovers all taking part. Much like the addition of pockets in ballgowns, a hoodie makes even the prettiest of silhouettes a bit more edgy, be they crafted of brocade, cashmere, or even classic fleece.
Fall is the best season when it comes to transitional jackets, taking your summer dresses into the colder days of winter. While car coats and leather jackets are always in attendance, designers chose blazers as the go-to outerwear for autumn. Whether paired with coordinated suiting or a flowing silk midi dress, the tailored toppers were a mainstay this season. They popped up everywhere from Tory Burch to Altuzarra, Khaite to Jason Wu.
Romantic details, like ruffles and peplums, were ubiquitous this season, appearing on every look from tailored suiting to after-hours party dresses. Markarian debuted off-the-shoulder ruffle tops, flared-sleeved blazers, and strapless bow gowns. Sandy Liang went for a slightly more retro take on the trend, sending drop-waist minidresses, puff-sleeved midis, and oversized bow details down the runway. And Brandon Maxwell took classic tailored suiting and added soft touches like peplum tops, bell-sleeved minidresses, and embellished overcoats. The message was clear: embrace the soft life this season.