Topshop have just launched their autumn/winter collections, High Performance, Out of the Wild, Dark Nouveau and Outsiders.Topshop have just launched their autumn/winter collections, High Performance, Out of the Wild, Dark Nouveau and Outsiders.

Continuing on from the summer's sportswear inspired craze, High Performance features panelling, clashing textures and high-tech fabrics. Giving sportswear a tougher feel for winter, styles are layered, worn under and over one another, while panels of aertex, mesh, lace, jersey and leather sit together to create a new look. Finishes use sportswear technology; seams are fused, while edges are bonded and laser cut for precision. Prints are also central to this look and are at once tribal and technical - a car tyre print adorns a loose-fitting chiffon trouser while graphic prints adorn dresses which feature mesh panels.

Tapping into the colours of autumn, the Out of the Wild collection is founded upon the elements. Faux fur, bondage-style strapping, dishevelled fabrics and patchwork feature heavily, making textured knitwear and mixed materials central to this trend. With pieces that are knotted, laddered, and adorned with feathers and wild trims mixed with checks and tweed, the collection has an outdoors throw on feel. Softer elements combine with tougher pieces and feature photo real-prints inspired by nature; a leaf skeleton print decorates a pleated chiffon maxi skirt that also features animal markings and looks great teamed with cable knit knee high socks and oversized, chunky knits.

As nights get longer and the days get darker earlier, Topshop has created the Dark Nouveau collection which has an after-hours feel. Taking inspiration from the Art Nouveau movement - including Bardsley's illustrations for Oscar Wilde and the more recent Banshees created by Neville Page for Avatar - the collection has a whimsical, fairytale feel. With tough, medieval-esque details used throughout, this collection provides a great opportunity to experiment with different make up. Dark lipsticks and heavy eye shadows will complement the clothing range which includes studded corsets and cage-like skirts with harness detailing.

Also tapping into the great outdoors, the Outsiders collection takes the best of Britain's heritage pieces and deconstructs them to create a modern feel. Elements of hunting, shooting, and fishing pervade the trend; the Jodhpur and the equestrian style jacket are key and prints take their inspiration from bird watching.
POST: 2025-04-20