Of all the words and phrases we throw around in fashion terminology, the one I try to avoid the most is characterising something as being “dated”, but it does have merit in some instances. Inevitably, things will date—once fresh and sparkly trends will begin to dip in popularity or general appeal and start to feel dated in comparison to the new trends that emerge. It’s just a fact. Still, that doesn’t mean that you should forget about these old trends entirely. In fact, if you were to peek into my wardrobe, almost everything you find in there would likely fall into the “dated” category. I dip my toe into the trends, yes, but not in a way that feels oversaturated or hard to come back from. Instead, I pick and choose the aesthetics and items I invest in, only buying things I truly love and know I’ll get the wear out of. Because of this, I really don’t care if something feels dated or not—if I enjoy wearing it, then I know it’ll transcend whatever comes next.
That said, I am always interested to know what my colleagues think feels dated when a new season rolls around. Like anything, this point of view is always subjective and deeply personal, and I knew this season they’d have thoughts. In terms of fashion, autumn 2024 has had a big refresh—trends that have clung on for the past couple of years have been, not replaced but challenged, by genuinely new-feeling looks that many editors I know are excited by. So, I thought I’d find out, direct from them, which pieces they personally won’t be buying new iterations of this autumn and the fresher items they have their eye on instead. And let me just say that some of their answers were rather unexpected! Scroll on to see if you agree with any of them.
6 “Dated” Autumn Trends for 2024 (and 6 That Feel Much Fresher)
Pausing: Cargo Trousers
Wearing: Leopard Print Trousers
“Cargo trousers definitely aren’t over, but I am seeing less and less of them on the market and, personally, I don’t see myself buying a new pair any time soon. Leopard print trousers, however? Now there’s a statement-making piece that I’m missing from my wardrobe!”—Remy Farrell, fashion editor
Shop the Trend:
MANGO
Leopard-Print Wideleg Jeans
GANNI
Leopard Betzy Cropped Jeans
Mint Velvet
Leopard Print Straight Cargo Jeans
Pausing: Hiker Boots
Wearing: Moto Boots
“I already own a pair of hiking boots and know I’ll turn to them when the weather really takes a turn this winter. However, lace-up styles aren’t where my 2024 interest lies—instead, I’m taken with the chunky, moto-inspired pull-on boot trend that Miu Miu kickstarted and is now everywhere.”—Brittany Davy, editorial assistant
Shop the Trend:
Mint Velvet
Brown Leather Buckled Long Boots
Pausing: Shackets
Wearing: Barn Jackets
Shop the Trend:
We The Free
We the Free Cori Waxed Jacket
ALIGNE
Betty Relaxed Quilted Coat
Polo Ralph Lauren
Cotton Canvas Jacket
Pausing: Micro Bags
Wearing: Suede Totes
Shop the Trend:
AESTHER EKME
Midi Suede Tote
MÉTIER
Incognito Cabas Small Suede Tote
Pausing: Slip Skirts
Wearing: Box-Pleat Skirt
Shop the Trend:
Albaray
Grey Flannel Pleat Midi Skirt
LORO PIANA
Pleated Woven Midi Skirt
Arket
Pleated Wool Blend Skirt – Dark Grey – Arket Gb
Pausing: Bright Red
Wearing: Burgundy
Shop the Trend:
CHLOÉ
Marcie Embellished Crinkled Patent-Leather Ballet Flats
COS
Merino Wool Turtleneck Jumper