2024's autumn/winter trends have been nothing short of excellent and that's coming from a person who is heavily attuned to anti-trend pieces. I've become increasingly impressed with how designers have hit the mark on nostalgic meets modern, in a way that has a timeless appeal. That's across the board, especially when it comes to dresses. Between whimsical ruffled and more is more adornments, many trends have been a throwback to vintage eras, albeit a tad more in keeping with 2024's modern-day essence and the sophisticated sartorialist, who exudes confidence and an unapologetic sense of self.
Trends from 2023 have carried forward, bringing with them weather-appropriate elements and deeper colourways, though there have been some wildcards. When I think of 2024's dress trends, I think of a Carrie Bradshaw-esque exuberance. Many trends are bold and encourage wearability for many occasions if you dare to wear your best for the most mundane jaunts.
There have been many trends to name. From the relevance of specific hues—namely aubergine and rich chocolate browns—to the revival of animal print in a way that feels contemporary, whilst still evoking its characteristic vintage essence. If you're wondering what trends have got us talking, keep on scrolling for a deeper delve into the trends that have piqued the interest of an anti-trend fashion editor.
See the 6 Major Winter 2024 Dress Trends Below:
1. Scarves On
Style Notes: Whilst scarf looks are far from a new revelation, designers have continued to spearhead scarf dresses for autumn 2024, particularly elongated, sweeping styles. Scarf adornments are aplenty—from coats to knitwear but here we're focused on the dress kind.
Shop the Trend:
I first fell in love with this on the runway, so seeing it available for purchase is nothing short of magic.
Knitted iterations are just as special.
This Malina frock features a detachable scarf that you can add to any outfit!
In this season's earthy khaki hue.
2. Powder Puff Party
Style Notes: Full skirted frocks feel inherently '50s, yet 2024's iterations are breathing life into this silhouette, especially with contemporary designs, such as the bandeau top, or puffed sleeves. The trend acts as an umbrella term, which houses puff ball skirting and fit-and-flare dresses. The more statement the skirt, the better.
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A whimsical offering complete with a ruched bandeau.
The runway said volume and Simkhai followed suit. Between the inverted v-bodice, rounded skirt and juxtaposed fabrication, it's guaranteed to make an entrance.
This dress is made for the dancefloor.
An all-in-one outfit.
3. A Touch of Animal
Style Notes: Hop on board the time machine as we revert to the noughties. Animal print is easily one of the most timeless motifs around (with many Sartorialists even referencing it as a neutral) and for winter 2024, it's dominating once more. Mini, maxi and sheer iterations are all welcome. Simply take your pick.
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This slinky number will pair beautifully with a refined pair of mules.
If you're hesitant, the ruffle trim will allow you to dip into the trend.
Nobody's Child lean into the fierceness of leopard, with this moody background.
Don't sleep on two-pieces as they give the impression of a dress. They count, too!
4. Cascading Ruffles
Style Notes: Whimsical, free-spirited and frothy, are a few descriptors that come to mind when thinking of the plentiful ruffle dress dress. Upon witnessing Chemena Kamali's debut collection for Chloé, I was inspired. Featuring power pink and peachy tones in barely-there voile, Bohemian style frocks, it's light, airy and alluring. You mightn't associate it with winter but that's just the appeal. When paired with hardened boots, it's pure magic.
A refined take on ruffles, courtesy of M&S.
Pair with chestnut hued cowboy boots.
While it may not be your first port of call, Monsoon has nailed the ruffle trend in this earthy colourway
In my eyes, Chloé spearheaded the ruffle trend for 2024.
5. Slip in Style
Style Notes: *Sounds klaxon*! Gowns have arrived in lustrous lacquers and glossy slip iterations, so you needn't worry if you're invited to any black tie events. Slip dresses have never been more relevant as we transcend into party season.
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Even makers of muted tones are backing burgundy this season.
Elevate slip dresses with a short-sleeve.
This forest green is the most darling colour.
Baobab excel when it comes to party gowns.
6. Fluff on, Fluff off
Style Notes: Due to the festive season, feather and fluffy adornments are a recurring trend every winter, but this year they've dominated in a major way. From fully feather-swathed minis to delicate feather trim, there's something for all.
Sleeper dresses are loved by editors, worldwide.
A statement frock awash with a candied pink.
You can always count on 16arlington for partywear.
Your dedicated party frock for the foreseeable.
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