Can Autumnal Fashion Be Sustainable?

As autumn rolls around, scarves and jackets are brought out of the wardrobe to fight the chilly breeze. This year, trends are bold and bulky, ranging from the revival of the iconic leopard print to the layering of oversized jumpers, jackets and trench coats. 

2025 saw the rise and return of multiple fashion trends, most notably the y2k look with the resurgence of low-rise jeans and halter neck tops.  Not only this, but iconic characters of the time like the Gilmore Girls and Bridget Jones still hold significant influence over Autumn’s fashion trends. Their cosy, whimsical vibe perfectly translates into thick knitted jumpers and oversized scarves. The romanticisation of an early 2000s Autumn began on TikTok with the creation of the so called ‘Frazzled English Woman’ aesthetic, which has become increasingly popular this year and even featured on some catwalks and runways. For example, Miu Miu’s office inspired looks or Chanel’s chunky knits. The look is messy yet still effortlessly chic; consisting of layered clothing, homemade scarves and laddered tights.  

More contemporary trends include leather jackets and faux fur, which act as the signature finishing touch to any basic outfit. Footwear has become more robust to fend off the damp Autumnal weather, with popular brands being Dr. Martens and Timberlands. Autumn’s colour palette has also taken over, showcasing the likes of burgundy and burnt orange. These rich shades, paired with thick scarves and chunky knit jumpers, make for many stylish yet cosy Autumn outfits 

For students, however, it can feel difficult to create the perfect Autumn wardrobe on a budget - but this is where the art of sustainability comes into play! Recently, the rising popularity of purchasing second-hand clothing through platforms like Vinted and Depop has offered people the opportunity to expand their wardrobe at a reasonable price. Though offline alternatives like charity shops are also great for finding hidden gems.  

A great piece of advice when sustainably shopping for clothes this Autumn is to look for versatility: functional outerwear like leather jackets and trench coats can be stylish and become signature pieces that you reach for every year. These items, specifically in neutral shades like black and brown, are a great addition to your wardrobe as you can wear them with any outfit.  

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect capsule wardrobe this Autumn! 

Written By Tilly Wright