Each year, fashion enthusiasts around the world eagerly follow Fashion Week runways to uncover the latest ready-to-wear trends.
With back-to-school season on the horizon, style influencers and trendsetters can't wait to see what's next. The standout fashion trends for winter 2019-2020 have arrived! As experts who've analyzed the collections firsthand, we're breaking down how to dress this winter with sophistication and edge.
Here are 10 key trends we spotted straight from the Fashion Week catwalks for fall/winter 2019-2020.
The cape is an ideal outerwear choice to combat early autumn chill while staying elegant and cozy. Its flowing silhouette offers a polished, sophisticated vibe. To balance its classic appeal, pair it with bolder fabrics and edgier cuts for a striking contrast.
This season, designers declare: the cape goes long!
A high-waisted skirt exudes chic refinement, cinching the waist and evoking timeless retro elegance.
This winter, elevate it with unexpected pairings for a British-inspired neo-bourgeois look. Try an oversized blazer, a structured or pussy-bow blouse in luxe fabric, a felt hat, or a fine cashmere sweater.
Accent with a chunky leather belt, as seen at Christian Dior, and mix prints boldly like Laquan Smith's tartan-leopard fusion!
The high-waisted cut is dominating, flattering curves, defining the waist, and elongating the legs. High-waisted pants come in endless varieties this winter—from vintage straight-leg styles with loafers, to chic tartan, or rebellious leopard and python prints.
Expect voluminous, '80s-inspired shapes with daring patterns everywhere. For styling tips on how to wear high-waisted pants, check our guide with 5 runway-inspired looks.
Leather is a wardrobe essential this season. Once a biker staple, it's now ubiquitous among influencers and runway stars.
From accessories to full outfits, it features in: perfecto jackets, skirts, leggings, and more.
Key winter leather trends:
Matte to glossy finishes suit sophisticated, rock, or glam styles. At Fendi, it pairs with sheer elements; Zimmermann mixes pleated leather skirts with chunky wool knits for bourgeois flair.
Khaki, beige, and taupe play supporting roles, but earthy tones like yellow, orange, terracotta, and rust dominate, echoing falling leaves. Collections burst with these warm shades.
Yellow invigorates winter wardrobes, while oranges and rusts add elegant depth.
Fresh from summer, leopard print roars into winter, dominating runways and street style worldwide.
Designers craft refined outfits or bold mixes like leopard with lilac for grunge appeal.
This Scottish pattern, iconic from the '90s, stormed Fashion Week catwalks in pants, dresses, and accessories.
Master how to wear houndstooth without looking stuffy:
Scottish influences endure with tartan print and British style, appearing on blazers, jackets, pants, scarves, and beyond. From preppy to grunge, it's perfect for daily wear.
Every season brings new hat silhouettes. A winter must-have, hats elevate outfits while providing warmth. Designers reinvent them annually.
This winter, expect structured shapes perched higher, channeling '50s glamour.
Main hat trends for winter 2020:
Thigh-high boots, or waders, are back in force for winter 2019/2020, elongating legs and conquering streets and runways.
Beyond trendiness, they insulate and versatilely style multiple looks.
How to style thigh-high boots?
Ditch the mini-skirt myth—they pair brilliantly with jeans, dresses, or sweater dresses, the season's hottest winter frock.
Where to shop?
Zara, Minelli for premium materials, or Asos for affordable options.
Now you're winter-ready! For spring/summer 2020 previews, see our trends guide.
