Burgundy is the perfect shade for a statement coat or a sleek pair of knee-high boots, giving that effortlessly expensive look.
Image: X/@pradapearl
The autumn chill has descended upon South Africa, and it's the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe for the colder season.
And the season is all about luxe layers, rich colours and textures that bring the drama because who said fashion has to be boring?
A digital creator and fashion maven who is renowned as Looks by Lilli on social media has spilled the tea on the trends that are taking over.
The colour palette
This season is serving up a colour story that is both classic and daring. Burgundy steps into the spotlight, oozing luxury and depth. It is the perfect shade for a statement coat or a sleek pair of knee-high boots, giving that effortlessly expensive look.
Meanwhile, browns are grounding the palette with shades of rich chocolate and caramel. It is ideal for layering up in cosy knitwear or buttery leather pieces that scream old-money elegance.
Leopard print is back this autumn and winter season.
Image: X/@CoinCrafteress
Leopard print is also making its grand return, proving that a little wild touch never goes out of style. Whether on a structured coat or a pair of bold boots, this print knows how to turn heads.
In addition, grey remains the ultimate neutral, making everything look effortlessly put together, from a tailored suit to an oversized knit.
For those who like a little surprise in their autumn/winter wardrobe, butter yellow brings a soft glow to gloomy days. It pairs beautifully with deeper hues, adding warmth and contrast to heavier fabrics.
Baby blue and icy blue are the cool-toned refresh we did not know we needed. These frosty shades work magic in structured coats and soft knitwear, creating a look that is both sharp and dreamy.
Browns are grounding the palette with shades of rich chocolate and caramel, ideal for layering up in cosy knitwear or buttery leather pieces.
Image: X/@dieworkwear
Textures and fabrics
It’s all about bringing texture and movement into your wardrobe. Suede is making a grand return, adding that soft, velvety touch to coats, boots, and even tailored trousers.
A suede trench in chocolate brown? Absolutely. The bohemian sheer trend is keeping things light and layered, proving that even in colder months, you can play with delicate, flowy pieces. Think sheer blouses under oversized blazers or layered slip dresses with chunky knits.
Fringe is making its presence known, adding a playful yet refined element to jackets, bags and skirts. A fringed coat swaying as you walk? Now that is winter glamour done right.
A full burgundy or grey look is chic, powerful, and easy to pull together. Add different textures to keep it interesting.
Image: X/@pradapearll
How to wear it like a pro
Mix textures like a stylist. Heading to a brunch date? Layer a sheer blouse under a wool coat for the perfect balance of light and warmth.
You can also go monochrome with a full burgundy or grey look. These shades during the colder months are chic, powerful and easy to pull together.
You can also add different textures to keep it interesting, including with leopard print which is often a statement piece to any outfit. If head-to-toe animal print feels like too much, ease into it with accessories. A leopard print scarf, structured bag or boots add just the right amount of boldness.
Butter Yellow and icy blue as unexpected heroes
Layer butter yellow under a dark coat for a peek of warmth, or go full winter wonderland in an icy blue knit dress with white boots.