The season is changing and we are ready to lean right in. From heritage checks with an undone feel to romantic lace paired with rugged denim, our team of editors share their favourite trends for autumn/winter, all available to shop at Free People.

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1. The long white shirt

The 90s called and versatile long-sleeved tops are officially back. The cold weather alternative to the classic tee, these are practically made for layering underneath delicate slips and dungarees.

Long white shirts are the staple du jour of cool fashion girls. Style with jeans, wide leg trousers, or even under a printed slip for a decidedly retro feel.

Natasha, Digital Editor

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2. Balloon trousers

Balloon-silhouette trousers were a conversation starter when they entered the chat last season. This year, though, they’re widely accepted as a stylish, relaxed hero piece. The main difference is that we are seeing an even bolder approach, teaming the arc cut with heritage plaids and eye-catching XXL checks.

Balloon leg trousers work with every silhouette on top, and pair perfectly with everything from ballet flats to heels. I can’t wait to style them with jumpers and blazers as we move into winter.

Kitty, Social Media Director

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3. The check shirt belt

Supernova Cropped Faux Fur Jacket, £140 | we the free ashley plaid Shirt, £140 | striped cashmere henley, £188 | Sloane Stacked Skinny Jeans, £108

Heritage tartans and oversized checks are dominating the autumn moodboards. A nod to classic British tailoring with a distinctly nostalgic feel, rich plaids are the easiest way to break up neutral outfits and add instant depth to everyday denim.

My style often leans a little grungy, so I’ve fully welcomed the return of the plaid shirt. Slung around the waist, it’s a cool way to tie a whole look together, adding a bit of print, colour, and texture to a simple jeans-and-tee combo.

Astrid, Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor

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4. Vintage-inspired jackets

Structured, cropped, and tailored. Retro military jackets and band jackets instantly give your outfit an on-trend edge. Whether you go for the theatrical Napoleon-esque velvet style, once beloved by Kate Moss, or a romantic iteration with built-in ruffle cuffs, this piece makes outerwear feel notably unconventional.

Military themes converge this season through a blend of faded checks, sweeping skirts, and rugged, yet decadent outerwear. For me, a beautifully embellished military jacket is the standout piece.

Ashling, Contributing Style & Interiors Editor

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5. Lace galore

Romantic lace pieces are set to be everywhere this season. Think sheer slip skirts, delicate cardigans, and lingerie made to be seen, all offset with rugged textures like classic denim, chunky leather belts, and suede.

The secret to styling dramatic lace is treating it like an everyday basic rather than saving it for best. Balance sheer silhouettes, ruffles, and peek-a-boo layers with relaxed denim, heavy silverwears, and effortless messy hair for an undone, modern feel.

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6. Subtle stripes

Nostalgic styling is having a major revival this autumn, and nothing nails that effortless, undone look quite like classic Breton stripes. Layer one beneath a structured band jacket or offset with tailored trousers for an instant high-low contrast.

Polka dots have definitely had a moment this summer, however, this autumn I’ll be returning to my tried and true stripes. The pattern works well to elevate basics and can be styled in so many different ways.

Amelia, Culture & Lifestyle Editor

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