It’s hard to think about the autumn when we’re enjoying our mini heatwave. But if the reason to think ahead to the next season involves fashion, well then I’m there! This week I was invited to the River Island Autumn Winter Press Day. River Island is one of my favourite high street retailers and AW is definitely my preferred season so this made a winning combination. I travelled up to Dublin with one of my best friends, Chloe, and we made the day of it. Chloe also writes a fashion and lifestyle blog called It’s a ‘Clo Thing’.
After a quick stop for coffee, we entered every fashionista’s dreamland – the River Island press office. All of the key pieces from the collection were displayed. How cool are these two mannequins that greeted us inside the door? 😄
There was a Mojito Stand, hand rolled ice cream treats by Arctic Stone to cool us down, (I hope you caught my InstaStories video, it was UNREAL!!) and we were kindly gifted with a personalised slogan t-shirt too. These were sewn in front of our eyes by Irish company Just A Thought.
Of course, the main attraction was the fashion. The womens wear collection was so exciting. There are four distinct trends for us to look forward to for AW17:
Harlem
The first key trend is Harlem; laid back and super cool, this trend features slouchy shapes, oversized jumpers, long line jackets and fur fringed denim jeans. The colours are warm; red, oxblood and tobacco and the trend really takes inspiration from the street. If you favour a more casual, Kanye-inspired look, this is the trend for you. Accessories-wise, baker boy hats and berets will be your besties in the winter weather.
80’s Excess
Not for the faint hearted, this next trend includes some seriously bold pops of colour. Don’t be afraid to mix textures; patent fabrics and shimmering skirts. Top tip for the season; shoulders are back and bigger than ever! Everything is exaggerated, whether it’s in the shoulders or volumised bows with heavy embellishment. Pair your cocktail dress with a slouchy boot to really embody this trend.
History Girl
There is a real feminine touch to History Girl which features ruffles, puff sleeves, gothic lacing and soft edging. The key pieces are delicately decorated with dainty florals and pearls. These details give an elegant touch to blouses and structured coats. Accessories will totally make an outfit, just add oversized earrings, little belts to cinch you in at the waist or ‘Clueless’ inspired fluffy heels.
Heritage Luxe
This is definitely my favourite trend! Deconstruction will carry through from summer, especially with shirts and anti-fitting tailoring. This is a really chic trend where sultry checks, dogtooth print and pinstripes take centre stage. Trench coats are given a make over with modern twists on a classic. Wear them over wide fitting trousers and skirts that feature thigh high splits. The colour palette is muted, allowing the finer details to stand out.
River Island Autumn Winter ’17
In 2014 River Island introduced their RI Mini collection for 0-5 years. For Autumn Winter, RI Mini, and their Kidswear collection for ages 3-12 years, continues to reflect the adult collections. River Island put their own twist on the bigger trends to create Victoriana and Urban Cool for the girls and Modern Lines, Smart Charm and Skater Boi for the boys.
The girls collection features some really cute little pieces using velvet, mesh, soft sheer, delicate lace and jacquards. Expect to see statement trousers and ruffled blouses as well as miniature puffa jackets and colour pop knits.
Oversized hoodies, raw edge denims and dusky green cargo pants hang on the rails of the boy’s collection. Padded jackets, dark denim and faux-fur lined parkas also make an appearance. There is also more of a classic, everyday look with Oxford style and denim shirts, timeless chinos and washed denim for the little gent in training.
Not Forgetting the Guys
In my opinion, River Island has long been a destination for menswear on the high street. They’re always one step ahead when interpreting the trends and they have the ability to translate them in a wearable way for everyday men. For AW17, we can expect to see a stylish nod to the classic preppy look in Parisian Prep with varsity hoodies, knit jumpers, checked shirts and minimal overcoats. Accessories include football inspired scarves and white tennis shoes. This is a key trend that is eternally popular in menswear.
Street Luxe is the trend that speaks to ones inner Bruno Mars! Think quilted velour tracksuits, animal print shirts and faux-fur hooded jackets. The colour palette includes plush tones like burgundy, gold and midnight blue. This trend is super cool and is completed with slick gold jewellery and hi-top trainers.
Finally, Manhattan is inspired by the 40’s with a remodelled take on sharp tailoring. Single and double-breasted suiting is complimented with premium heritage fabrics. Check jackets, pinstripe shirts and cropped tailored trousers can be mixed and matched for formal looks or a modern alternative to classic styling. It features gorgeous dusty shades of grey and brown.
Look Forward
Autumn seems like it is light years away right now but that is a little glimpse in to what we have to look forward to at River Island. Some pieces will begin to land in store from the end of July, with the most part of the collection arriving in August and September. You can shop online at www.riverisland.com or in their 20 stores nationwide.
I already have my eye on a couple of stunning pieces, have you? Let me know what you love and what trends you’re excited about in the comments below or on Facebook, Snapchat or Twitter.
