By Michelle McClair
As Autumn and Winter approach, students returning to college are provided with a great excuse to go out and buy a few new pieces for their wardrobes. What are the prominent trends seen in this year’s A/W collections? And more importantly, how can we incorporate these new trends into our wardrobes without breaking the bank?
Autumn/Winter trends for 2019 borrow from those of decades passed. Primark’s new line focuses on grunge styles from the 90’s, with flannel, plaid, corduroy and chunky boots holding centre stage for Autumn 2019. Other lines, such as Bershka, focus on denim, metallics and faux fur, reminiscent of the 70’s and 80’s.
Midi skirts are trending far more than the usual mid-thigh Autumn styles, decorated with floral prints, as seen in the Marc Jacobs and Prada Autumn/Winter shows, whereas jackets with long hems and belts to accentuate the waist dominated most of the collections in 2019.
The denim trend provides an easy way to look trendy on campus, and with a pair of heels and a nice top, it can be easily transformed into a simple outfit for a night out in a push for time. These ‘Mom’ style jeans from Bershka are perfect for early college mornings and late nights out and can be paired with a denim jacket for a trendy 80’s, double denim feel.
With a large range of coat and jacket trends being displayed in Autumn/Winter collections for 2019, it’s not hard to stay warm and trendy. Battle the Galway breeze with a warm teddy coat, and pair it easily with trousers, a skirt, or with some high waisted khakis. Finally, add some trendy boots for a warm and cosy going out look.
Floral patterns seem to be a big trend this season, appearing mainly in midi skirts and dresses. Skirts like this one (from New Look) with a pair of thick sole-lace boots (similar to those seen in Penneys) and a graphic tee feed into the grungy 90’s looks seen in Autumn and Winter collections for 2019.
Autumn/Winter accessory trends include paperboy hats, which are perfect for protecting students from the constant drizzle in Galway, and belts to accentuate the waist. Trends for bags include tiny bags, great for holding the essentials on a night out, and large bags, perfect for transporting books and laptops around campus, while still staying in style.
Men’s fashion trends for Autumn/Winter are centred mainly around denim, as well as textured materials like corduroy and leather. The long-hemmed coat features heavily in Autumn collections, as well as neutral tan shades. This jacket from Bershka is trendy as well as affordable, and most importantly warm. Layer over a graphic hoodie and with a pair of jeans, or swap out the hoodie for a shirt on a night out.
With such a wide selection of trends to pick from, Autumn/Winter 2019 looks promising for affordable and college friendly fashion.
