"Chocolate is the New Black" and 3 Other Autumn Trends to Watch This Season

Let's start with the trend that knows no middle ground: animal print. There are those who consider it a neutral and those who still view it with the same suspicion usually reserved for texts that start with "hey, can I ask you a favour?". I’ve learned to appreciate it especially when the pattern moves between brown, black, and beige—a palette that is remarkably easy to style, even for those who usually live in block colours.

The secret, if you don't want to feel overwhelmed, is to choose a single statement piece, perhaps taking it step by step. Go for a printed blouse tucked into a chocolate blazer, or opt for a smaller detail, such as a soft collar that instantly transforms a light-coloured coat. And if you feel ready for the advanced level, try mixing two different animal prints, provided they share the same colour palette. The result works precisely because the warm tones bind the look together, making it appear intentional rather than the product of a five-minute panic session before stepping out the door.

After the slightly wild instinct of animal print comes the precision of checks. Tartan, check, houndstooth, Prince of Wales: we could debate the differences for hours, but the point is that geometric patterns are returning to claim jackets, trousers, and suits this autumn. And no, you don't need to transform yourself into the main character of a series set in an English boarding school.

To make them feel contemporary, forget overly prim combinations for a moment and play with proportions instead. A checked blazer looks wonderful styled over a lightweight midi skirt, while check trousers can be softened by a slouchy knit, loafers, and an accessory with a bold texture.

The idea is to take a traditional pattern and strip away that "9 AM meeting" feel without sacrificing its natural elegance. Here again, brown acts as the anchor: choose checks in shades of tobacco, beige, and chocolate, and pair them with pieces from the same colour family.

Finally, there is leather—or rather, that entire world of textures ranging from smooth leather to suede—which seems to have decided to invade our wardrobes from morning till night this season. The hero piece remains the jacket: tan-coloured, soft-lined, and subtly retro, it possesses the superpower of making even the simplest outfit in the world (a white shirt and tailored trousers) instantly interesting.

The trick, however, lies in mixing surfaces: glossy leather with fluffy knits, suede with crisp white cotton, rich dark chocolate with mustard-yellow accents. It is precisely this interplay between contrasting materials that gives depth to a monochromatic palette, proving that yes, you absolutely had this all planned out.