London Fashion Week has wrapped up, leaving behind a fresh palette of trends for the autumn/winter 2025 season. The event, renowned for showcasing cutting-edge design and creative expression, featured notable names like Harris Reed, Bora Aksu, and S.S. Daley, each presenting collections rich with unique influences, from punk aesthetics to Victorian elegance.
Harris Reed, known for theatrical flair, opened the fashion extravaganza with works inspired by gothic whimsy and punk ethos. The collection, presented at the Tate Britain, is described as ‘thought to occupy space and make noise,’ reflecting Reed's fascination with revolution and freedom. His designs marry structured corsetry with floating crinolines, creating garments reminiscent of armor yet highlighting the vulnerability of the wearer. The looks transform the models, casting them as ethereal beings caught between dream and reality—a true metamorphosis on the runway.
Meanwhile, Bora Aksu drew inspiration from the 19th-century European aristocracy, with flowing skirts adorned with delicate lace and sheer fabrics. Featuring references to the melancholic beauty of Empress Elizabeth “Sissi” of Austria and the radical works of expressionist painter Egon Schiele, Aksu’s collection contrasts structure with fluidity. Notably, long velvet gloves emerged as standout accessories, indicating their potential rise as trend favorites this upcoming winter.
On the more contemporary side of the spectrum, S.S. Daley brought pop vibrancy to the proceedings, inspired by colorist Scottish painters. His collection marries classic British elements with practical styles suitable for everyday wear. Highlights include camel-colored montgomery coats reimagined with playful mini cuts, quilted Barbour jackets paired with balloon skirts, and tartan trench coats reflecting bold, 70's-inspired blues. One standout piece was a plum sweater featuring the tribute “Stay Faithfull to Marianne,” honoring the recently deceased iconic British singer and actress Marianne Faithfull.
Another noteworthy trend presented was the evolution of hairstyles, heavily featuring at the shows. One dominant look showcased low ponytails cinched with strands of hair instead of traditional elastics, giving the style both texture and elegance. This understated chic celebrates natural beauty, creating effortless yet visually appealing looks.
Both soft and sculptural hairdressing emerged as significant themes for the season. The volumetric buns were transformed from mere hairstyles to sculptural statements adorned with geometric finesse. Designers highlighted this with wet-look finishes, able to redefine the spatial aesthetics of hair, as seen at Sinead O'Dwyer and Richard Quinn's presentations.
Among the most visually captivating trends were faux bangs, crafted from deep side parts creating the illusion of fullness. This homage to the 1960s brought nostalgic vibes back to the forefront of contemporary styling.
The glass hair effect—a glossy, reflective look—emerged as another pivotal trend, giving hair a mirror-like sheen. Achieved through treatments such as lamellar gloss and illuminating liquid crystals, this style aims to accentuate the vibrancy and health of natural hair.
Reflecting on the color palette for autumn/winter 2025, warm tones were prominent throughout different shows. From Aksu's jewel tones punctuating neutral backdrops to Daley's rich hues inspired by traditional British clothing, designers utilized colors not only to appeal aesthetically but to evoke emotions tied to cultural narratives.
Conclusively, London Fashion Week has astutely captured the upcoming autumn/winter 2025 trends, melding imagination with practicality across various collections. The showcased designs and hairstyles not only forecast the near future of fashion but remind us of the art's ability to inspire change and evoke nostalgia. Both designers and attendees alike leave with impressions of creativity, community, and the endless possibilities of style.