Whether we like it or loathe it, fashion flows in trends. Every six months, what’s seen on the runways quickly trickles down into stores, leading to a plethora of pieces within a certain theme — be it boho, grunge, or the current faux fur phenomenon. For Autumn/Winter 25, there’s no shortage of styles to turn to: animal prints of every kind, slouchy boots, practical bags, and outfit-enhancing belts are all high on the agenda. Add to that jewellery pieces that feel timeless yet are enjoying a renewed moment — think cuffs, pearls, and brooches.

Yet the true secret to great style doesn’t lie in following whatever look is currently getting the most love — your wardrobe, bank account, and energy simply couldn’t keep up — but in cherry-picking the elements that work with what you already own and love to wear. For me, that’s meant pulling some animal-print pieces from the back of my wardrobe and pairing them with my everyday staples — jeans, cashmere jumpers, cotton tees — adding just a touch of trend-led style without committing to a whole new look.

And let’s not forget, trends always come back around. You might not need to invest in anything new to tap into one — a simple sift through your current collection might be all it takes. Below, the five key trends to look out for this Autumn/Winter 25, just in case you’re curious.

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Walk On The Wild Side

If 2024 was the year of leopard-print love, the whole menagerie got the memo for 2025/2026 as snake, zebra, cheetah and even a touch of cow print came through strongly across the Autumn/Winter runways. The easiest way to weave them into your wardrobe? Through boots and bags — and luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from, with Saint Laurent, Gabriela Hearst and Balmain leading the way. But, while animal print might seem like a maximalist move (especially if you’re clashing patterns), a subtle snake or faded zebra can work just as well for minimalists, adding a pop of interest to even the simplest looks.

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Hot Fuzz

The great fashion fur debate has officially been revived for Autumn/Winter 25. To real or to faux — that’s the question, with ethics versus environmental impact at the heart of the conversation. Still, almost every luxury label, from Chloé and Miu Miu to Fendi and Simone Rocha, weighed in with their own take. Faux fur stoles, bag charms and collars swanned down the runway in no short supply, alongside plenty of shearling pieces — perhaps the middle ground in fashion’s ongoing fur debate. Either way, not only do they make outfits infinitely cosier, but they also add an undeniable touch of vintage glamour.

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Get Slouchy

Boots have always been a core part of any Autumn/Winter wardrobe, but this season it’s all about the slouch. From soft, supple leathers and suedes at Balmain and Sportmax to heavy knit fabrics at Louis Vuitton, the message was clear: the more relaxed the shape, the more statement the look. Try over-the-knee styles for extra drama or slouchy ankle boots for something more low-key. Either way, they pair perfectly with skirts, dresses or tucked-in jeans.

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An Extra Cinch

Unlike shoes, bags, and jewellery, belts often receive very little love when it comes to outfit building — unless they’re put to practical use, actually tightening trouser waistbands. This season, however, it’s time that changed, as belts became a focal point of many an outfit on the Autumn/Winter 25 runways. Take Louis Vuitton’s extra-long black leather belt, used to break up a jumper and skirt; Bally’s corset belt, which added ample waist definition to an otherwise simplistic look; or Zimmermann’s tonal option, as just a handful of examples. All proof that belt styles go far beyond classic black or brown leather.

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The Practical Purse

Where micro mini bags may have reigned supreme in the past, this season is all about ease. So, we welcome the rise of the practical purse with open arms — no more faffing around with tiny zips or spaces too small to even fit a phone. Instead, we're after handles that are long enough to actually wear on our shoulder (or the option of a crossbody strap if that isn't available), a size that is large enough for more than just a lip balm yet not so big that you'll never find what you're actually looking for, and sturdy fabrics that can handle being set on the floor. Fashion and functional can go hand in hand, after all. Chloé's revival of the Paddington, a fan-favourite style first released in 2005, is currently topping the list as the most in-demand bag of the season (the burgundy shade is particularly popular). Although I also have my eye on the Gucci Beatrix large tote bag, Prada's cognac-coloured Enchaîné medium leather bag, and Isabel Marant's Oskan Hobo Soft Bag, complete with signature studs.