The Fall/Winter 2015/2016 shows seem so long ago but since winter is coming, we thought we would revisit the top trends. Among the many fabrics, colors, cuts, motifs and inspirations seen on the runways, what are the essential fashion items of the season? Which accessories should take pride of place in your closet and in particular, what items should be banned from your wardrobe? These are the pressing questions facing fashionistas in the northern hemisphere as the big chill looms…

A model presents a creation for Lanvin. AFP PHOTO / Francois Guillot

Coats take on a longer dimension

Vests and bomber jackets are to be kept on hand throughout the upcoming months, though long and even extra-long coats (as seen at Lanvin above) are essential seasonal pieces this year. In terms of fabrics, leather, sheepskin and faux fur dominated designer collections. The color palette includes black and red with various vibrant shades and a large selection of motifs. As seen profusely in the fashion shows, hooded coats and jackets are a definite wardrobe staple.

Leather is chic

Winter 2015 will exude a very sixties vibe with, in particular, the return of leather to the fashion scene, both chic and very rock’n’roll. The noble material is used on every wardrobe piece from dresses and skirts to coats and tops. The season calls for classic colors like black (as seen at Hermès below) and camel hues as well as a vibrant array of bright shades.

Hermès. AFP PHOTO / Bertrand Guay

Immaculate white

Though the winter color palette is generally darker in tone, this year white was at the heart of a number of collections. An all-white ensemble gives a refined, fresh and chic look to any silhouette.

Other color trends to note are a return to red, as seen at Hermès, Alexander McQueen, Elie Saab, Christian Dior, John Galliano, Shiatzy Chen, Iris van Herpen, and Valentino. Beige – running to nude – also figures prominently, with some lovely shades on show at Chloe (of course), Nina Ricci, Alexander McQueen and Allude. The AFP also found violet hard at work at Moon Young Hee, Chanel, John Galliano, Kenzo, Issey Miyake and Emporio Armani. Finally, touches of yellow and orange found their way into the shows at seen at Kenzo and Miu Miu in particular, but also at Louis Vuitton, Shiatzy Chen, Valentin Yudashkin, Vanessa Seward, Esteban Cortazar, Akris, Céline, Givenchy, and Rochas.

Burberry Prorsum. AFP PHOTO / Leon Neal

Fringe

Often associated with summer festivals, and in definite supply on the spring/summer 2015 runway shows, fringe is a key detail this season, as seen above at Burberry Prorsum. Dresses, skirts and coats are all embellished with fringe for an edgy bohemian-chic take on winter.

Chloe. AFP PHOTO / Patrick Kovarik

The cape

A big hit last winter, capes (seen above at Chloe) move to the top of the winter must-haves this year. Whether in block color or printed material, they add a retro touch to any outfit and can be worn over a dress or pants.

Quilted details

The fall/winter collections of 2015 ooze a decidedly retro spirit with a strong presence of quilted pieces.  A signature detail of the Chanel fashion house, quilted details, in particular on bags, vests and dresses, are a definite fashion “do” this winter. The possibilities with this trend are endless and include very avant-garde interpretations.

Sleeveless trend

Once relegated to the darkest corner of your closet, puffer jackets, gilets and sleeveless quilted vests are back in the limelight. Dresses are preferably sleeveless or made from completely different materials, playing on contrasts. Some designers have even created removable sleeves on a number of items.

Gucci. AFP PHOTO / Giuseppe Cacace

Transparency

Much more subtle this season, transparent details remain a key trend for a sensual and sexy style. Not to be used extravagantly, discreet touches are all that is needed to convey sensuality. Opt for transparent details in dark fabrics with a focus on the arms, back, thighs and bust.

High-waisted elements

For fall/winter 2015, the waist is showcased for a sophisticated and ever-so-retro look. All major pieces are cut with a high-waist including suit pants, skirts and dresses. The waist is often embellished with a belt, either wide or narrow.

Versace. AFP PHOTO / Filippo Monteforte

Logos

The names and logos of fashion labels appear in XXL lettering on even the most sophisticated ensembles, oftentimes in bright eye-popping colors for better visibility and “wow” factor. The trend should without a doubt continue into the coming season.