7 fashion trends to elevate your university wardrobe this autumn

A fashion trend captures the popular culture of the moment, and can be shaped by everything from historical events to celebrities.

When we hear the phrase ‘it’s a new trend’, we’re all keen to investigate what it is and who or what started it. And although fashion trends have existed for centuries, the advent of mass media in the twentieth century and an ever-growing fashion industry have played a key role in helping trends evolve and grow at a much faster rate.

Hanan Ahmed, Fashion Communication and Promotion student at Teesside University. Instagram: @hautehanan

Hanan, who grew up in Middlesbrough and is currently studying fashion at Teesside University, posts daily content to her fashion Instagram account @hautehanan. If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your wardrobe and follow the latest fashion trends but not known where to begin, Hanan is here to guide you based on looks she’s seen on the fashion runway that are set to dominate the upcoming season.

Follow the looks she’s curated based on 7 emerging trends that perfectly capture the essence of autumn…

1: Suede

The fashion forecast has spoken! Vivid hues and sepia tones will replace studded biker jackets in this year’s coat and jacket choices. As expected, suede has made a strong comeback with rich earthy tones like browns, tans, and deep reds, perfectly capturing the essence of autumn. It’s also a well-known material for shoes, bags, and accessories.

As shown, suede perfectly compliments denim for those who want to achieve a smart-casual look. A suede jacket looks great with a classic plain white shirt or even a hoodie, black or blue jeans, and a pair of black boots.

If you’re going for a more chilled look, the picture on the right shows how details on a button-up suede piece with Peter Pan collars provide a shirt-like vibe. It looks great paired with a grey t-shirt, grey joggers, and, of course to complete the look, brown sunglasses.

Nothing says ‘back to uni’ more than looking stylish and cosy.

2: Leopard print

Leopard print has become popular on the high streets in recent months. It’s here to stay, and I support it wholeheartedly. With its new modern twist and multiple styling options, you can dress with leopard print to suit whatever your aesthetic. The beauty of this print is that it can be as bold or as subtle as you want it to be.

As you can see, I personally like to use it in small amounts to suit anyone’s style. I opted for a leopard print maxi skirt paired with a white t-shirt, a beige cardigan with statement black bows, and a leopard print bag to complete the look. I also paired a leather skirt with a leopard print hijab, a black balloon-sleeve cardigan, and a white jumper.

If you’re feeling bold, the leopard print design on denim jeans is a great option paired with a relaxed hoodie and beige boots. Or, go super chic with a leopard print maxi dress accessorised with a brown blazer and knee-high tan boots.

3: Denim

Regardless of the season, the denim on denim trend never goes out of style. It’s the perfect time to choose bolder denim outfits when the weather cools off in the upcoming months.

So why not start by embracing the double denim look?

Here’s how! A blue shirt, denim jeans, and brown boots with a denim jacket on the left. Next is a dress in denim blue complemented with long black boots and sunglasses. After that, bright red shoes and denim cargo jeans are worn with a denim jacket. Lastly, on the right a denim jacket is paired with a silver ballet pump and a denim skirt.

4: Leather

Leather is still a powerful staple in autumn/winter fashion, providing a stylish and chic choice for the changing cooler weather. This year, leather has expanded from traditional biker jackets, and is offering a range of modern, edgy looks to spice up your wardrobe.

On the left, we have a black leather shacket paired with a black leather maxi skirt, completed with red shoes and a matching bag. In the middle, we have a brown leather jacket, styled with a black top, black jeans, and brown boots. Next to that we have the same look but with a black leather jacket and black boots. On the right, we see a black t-shirt layered with a white leather jacket, black leather trench coat, black leather trousers, and white trainers to finish the look.

5: Burgundy red

This trend is not just about adding a pop of colour, it’s a rich, burgundy hue that brings boldness and sophistication to any outfit. The deep plum tones perfectly compliment the crisp autumn season, adding both warmth and elegance to your wardrobe.

As shown, on the left we have a burgundy knitted cardigan paired with a black shirt, grey trousers, and black loafers. Next, there is a burgundy leather jacket styled with a black top, burgundy trousers, and black trainers. Following that, we see a burgundy blazer, black maxi skirt, matching burgundy heels, and a coordinating bag, finished off with black sunglasses. On the right, we have a black jumper paired with a burgundy maxi skirt, black boots, and a burgundy handbag to complete the look.

6: Knitwear

From having oversized, chunky knits that are perfect for lounging at home to tailored, button-down styles suited for smarter occasions, knitwear is an absolute staple for this season. Whether layered over a t-shirt or shirt, it offers a cosy yet chic look. Never underestimate the power of a good knitted piece, as you can even dress it up for a formal occasion without compromising on comfort.

For example, shown on the left, we have a grey knit two-piece outfit paired with bold red ballet pumps and a matching red bag, finished with black sunglasses. Next, there is a black oversized knitted jumper layered over a white t-shirt, styled with denim washed jeans and black shoes for a casual, effortless vibe. Following that, we have a black t-shirt with a zebra print maxi dress over it, complemented by a rust-coloured balloon sleeve cardigan, long black boots, and a matching black bag. On the right, we see a white top and oversized knitted white jumper paired with beige trousers, white trainers, and a white beanie for a stylish, cosy look.

7: Olive green

Rumour has it that olive green is the new cherry red for autumn 2024. While cherry red dominated the spring/summer runways for 2024, olive green is taking centre stage for the colder months. Traditionally, beige, and monochrome tones have been commonly known as an autumn palette, but this year, olive green is the trend worth investing in for a fresh look.

As shown, on the left we have an olive-green trench coat paired with an olive jumper, brown trousers, and black boots. Next, there is an olive leather jacket styled with a black rhinestone t-shirt, black satin maxi skirt, and black leather boots. Following that, we have an olive-green teddy bear jacket layered over a khaki sweater with matching joggers, finished with black trainers. Lastly, on the right, there is an oversized olive-green jacket paired with beige straight trousers and matching olive-green boots.

It is undeniable that autumn brings a brand new wave of fashion inspiration. There are countless options for layering, styling, and elevating your wardrobe with the upcoming trends, which range from classic materials like suede and leather to deep, earthy tones like olive green.

Autumn is the ideal season to play around with your style, whether you are going for bright hues or cuddling up in cosy knits. Don’t be scared to personalise each look by combining modern trends with timeless favourites. I’d love to see your autumn looks – tag me on Instagram @hautehanan and follow along for fashion inspo!

Author: Narelle

After graduating with a Marketing degree at Teesside, Narelle joined the University's Communications and Development team as a Social Media Coordinator.