"Demure" might be something of a buzzword right now, but I like to think of myself as something of an expert on the subject. At least, when it pertains to fashion.
I've always had a very refined personal style, and that has influenced my work as an editor somewhat. With an appreciation for truly classic pieces and investments that never date nor lose their appeal, I've been writing about how to dress more timelessly for the best part of 13 years now. Naturally, this experience is coming in very handy this week, as searches for "demure fashion" have spiked by 310% on Google. But why?
It all started when TikTok influencer Jools Lebron’s videos of herself ironically being “very demure, very mindful, very cutesy” began being shared at a rapid rate. Since then, other users across all social platforms have been serving up their own content on what it means to be demure. While some are going down the very traditional route with their interpretations, I think the heart of demure lies in clothing. As such, I decided to take a closer look at the demure fashion trends that are already set to dominate this autumn.
Elegance was the reigning theme of the autumn/winter 2024 runways, and now we're seeing the fruits of this seep into the market. So much so, it's hard to tell which pieces are actually going to make you look genuinely polished as opposed to playing Upper East Side cosplay. Below, I've found eight demure autumn fashion trends that fall into the former category. I call them trends but, really, they're as timeless as any trend can get.
8 DEMURE AUTUMN TRENDS THAT ALWAYS LOOK POLISHED
1. BURGUNDY BAGS
Burgundy has been one of the biggest colour trends of the year, and the way fashion people have chosen to wear it definitely noteworthy.
Suddenly, in place of black or tan, it's burgundy bags that those in the know are reaching for to give their looks instant polish.
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2. LACE SKIRTS
Everywhere I look, lace skirts are cropping up on the outfits of the chicest—and, yes, most demure—women I follow.
Be they all-over lace or skirts adorned with a pretty, lingerie-adjacent trim, this trend is romantic and directional in equal measure.
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3. BROWN SATIN
Another key colour trend for 2024 has been that of decadent brown, and now we're seeing it being worn in a new way ahead of autumn.
Supremely rich-looking, brown satin and silk is cropping up across the board, from Prada mules to Givenchy skirts, as well as on the high street. If you want to look elegant in a flash, adding this to your look is how.
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4. PINSTRIPES
Demure and classic go hand in hand, and one of the most classic print trends we're seeing make a comeback for autumn is pinstripes.
Pinstripes have been integral to fashion for over 70 years, but it feels like they're fresher than ever this season, worn by way of dress coats and chic co-ords.
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5. KITTEN MULES
When identifying the most demure shoe trend to include in this feature, I was torn between two: kitten heels and mules. Then it struck me.
It's clear—kitten-heel mules are the most demure shoe around. Their closed toe ensures they look refined and sleek, while the kitten heel feels effortless and styling. Key attributes in looking demure.
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6. BOUCLÉ JACKETS
Bouclé and tweed are two of the most demure fabrics around, and the easiest way to wear them is easily by way of a cute cropped jacket.
Stick to a neutral cream or beige or opt for classic black and rest assured it'll go with everything, from jeans to pencil skirts.
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7. TENNIS NECKLACES
The tennis necklace has long been a signifier of wealth and exclusivity. Formerly made exclusively in diamonds, brands are now serving up more affordable iterations that haven't lost their high-end appeal. In fact, they're the mark of an even savvier shopper.
Use yours to dress up your everyday staples or make a formal evening ensemble feel all the more special.
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8. CREAM TROUSERS
There's just something so, well, demure about a cream or white trouser. The woman who wears them radiates confidence and grace—you need to be a composed person not to spill something on them, after all.
Tailored, wide-leg pairs will never date but should you want your trousers to look more current, look for fluid pairs with cargo pocket details, turn-up hems or interesting waistlines.
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