Fashion trends for the fall 2023 season emphasize texture and materials, with designers embracing “quiet luxury” through subtle details. From corduroy to velvet, fabrics took center stage on the runway, offering versatility and a minimalist aesthetic. As we transition our wardrobes this fall, keep an eye out for these key textural trends.
Corduroy for Sophistication
Once considered outdated, corduroy has made a stylish comeback. Brands like Miu Miu, Vegan Tiger, Baum Und Pferdgarten, and Lovechild1979 used corduroy’s texture to add visual interest to their fall collections. From jackets to skirts, corduroy lent elegance and sophistication to classic silhouettes. This versatile fabric effortlessly transitions from day to night.
Exotic Touches
Snakeskin, ostrich, crocodile, and lizard prints have been modernized into faux exotic materials. Dion Lee, Puppets and Puppets, Rokh, Lanvin, and 16Arlington incorporated these textured skins into dresses, pants, and accessories for an elevated look. When crafted from ethical alternatives, animal prints can add a luxe element minus the controversy.
Fringe Benefits
Fringe trim evolved from a simple ornament into a major textural detail. Designers like Paco Rabanne, Bottega Veneta, 16Arlington, LaQuan Smith, and A.W.A.K.E Mode used fringe to create intrigue. Strategically placed fringe added fluidity to garments, creating an eye-catching element.
Fabulous Faux Fur
Faux fur shed its divisive reputation this fall. Brands like Ferragamo, Givenchy, 16Arlington, and A.W.A.K.E Mode featured ethical fur alternatives in outerwear, handbags, and shoes. When sourced responsibly, faux fur offers texture without harming animals.
Hardcore Hardware
Designers challenged fabric perceptions by incorporating metal hardware. Grommets, studs, eyelets, and chainmail provided an unexpected feel. Lanvin, Saks Potts, and Remain added grommets and studs for edge. Hardware elevated basics like dresses and boots with rock n’ roll rebellion.
Leather Reimagined
Leather played a starring role on the runway, but not in its typical form. Designers like Loewe, Jil Sander, A.W.A.K.E. Mode, Alexander McQueen, and Brandon Maxwell transformed leather through innovative tailoring, hardware additions, and bold colors. They proved that leather can be modern, feminine, and versatile. The focus was on silhouette and how leather interacts with light.
Satin’s New Focus
Satin broke out of its springtime box this fall. Saint Laurent, Di Petsa, Atlein, Lanvin, and Loewe used the luxurious fabric in unexpected ways. They honed in on satin’s draping potential along with its ability to soften tailoring. Satin added fluidity and a sleek look to everyday pieces.
Fuzzy Fabrics
Mohair, brushed wool, and other “peach fuzz” fabrics dominated the fall 2023 shows. Brands like Proenza Schouler, Gucci, Sportmax, and Marni incorporated fuzzy textures into winter wardrobe staples. Oversized silhouettes, puffer coats, and sweater dresses got a hairy upgrade. The result was playful, cozy, and statement-making.
Velvet’s Revival
Velvet shed its old-fashioned reputation this season. Designers like Del Core, Proenza Schouler, Sportmax, Jason Wu, and Schiaparelli gave velvet a modern twist through innovative dye techniques and bold tailoring. By moving beyond velvet’s holiday associations, brands transformed the texture into something fashion-forward.
Conclusion
This fall, embrace luxury through subtle details. Keep an eye out for corduroy, leather, satin, and velvet, along with unique touches like fringe, hardware, and ethical animal prints. By focusing on texture, fabrics do the talking. It’s clear the devil is in the details this season.