After a long summer of the scorching Azanian sun, winter is finally here! The dawn of this season presumably calls for a closet overhaul. With that said, there couldn’t be a better time to implement some of the spectacular trends showcased by Mzansi’s tastemakers at the South African Fashion Week (SAFW) Autumn/Winter ’22 Collections exhibition. Launched in October 2021, the show was held in the presence of a live audience – the first time since the beginning of the pandemic.
With the many contrasting colours, prints, and textures showcased on the SAFW runway, it’s difficult to find stylish yet regular ways to apply some of the trends into one’s everyday wardrobe. Moziak has put together a list of SAFW-inspired trends worn by some of our favourite celebrities and influencers who will keep you on-trend without feeling like your outfit is over the top.
Chunky Boots
The rumours are true. The super-chunky lug sole boot is back. It’s finally time to pull out those Doc Martens that have been gathering dust in your closet throughout the summer. Chunky Chelsea boots are especially popular. However, any other designs and styles of chunky boots – heeled or flat or lace-up – are also on-trend this autumn.
Edgy Cut-Out Detailing
This glamorous, party-inspired trend reigned all summer and is still fashionable in autumn. It might be cold outside, but we’re still showing some skin, okay? Bare shoulders and back, cuts that pop out on the waist, lower belly cuts, you name it. This trend was also approved at the SAFW during The OPPO Collections exhibition.
Straight-Cut Blazers
As showcased by NEO – formerly known as BLVNK on the SAFW runway – straight-cut blazers are your go-to outerwear item. Their effortless polish is what has kept them on-trend for many generations. The key to mastering this trend is purchasing a long boxy blazer that doesn’t fit. The slouchier, the better.
Low-Rise Pants are Back—Don’t Panic!
After almost two decades of being made obsolete by high-waisted pants, low-rise pants are back like they never left. The Y2K fashion’s infamous staple has made a comeback—with a beautiful twist. Unlike in 2003, when there wasn’t a variation of low-rise pants, the 2022 trend is taking a different approach. We’re seeing low-rise pants styles with wider and slouchier silhouettes, longer inseams, plus rises that sit underneath the waist.
Cropped Cardigans
Yes, weather temperatures are becoming cooler by the day but not “fuzzy pullover and trench coat” kind of cool. The perfect median? A cropped cardigan. Everyone is feeling the cardi love this autumn. From street-style fashionistas to designers and celebrities, the list of fashion enthusiasts wearing cropped cardigans is endless. Understandable, considering that they are moderately warm and easy to style.
Leather Forever
The leather look is not going anywhere; leather reigns as the most seasonless item in most people’s wardrobes. Whether real or faux, leather always will roll over from season to season. Leather is a versatile and timeless item to complete any look this autumn.
The items mentioned on this listicle can be purchased from the various fashion designers who showcased their work at the SAFW Autumn/Winter ’22 Collections.
As we await the SAFW Autumn/Winter ’23 Collections exhibition with great anticipation, following the trends from its predecessor is not a bad idea. From flowy and oversized outerwear to skin-baring cut-outs, this phenomenal exhibition showcased trendy clothing to keep you on-trend this winter.
