Feel out the fashion loop as we head into Autumn? Let’s recap some trends!

Words by Kate South

You might have noticed an increasingly 80s influence seeping into your headphones recently. From CMAT’s Euro-Country to Doja Cat’s upcoming Vie, the sounds of the 80s, including epic ballads and iconic synth samples, are permeating pop music. This sonic revisiting of the 80s is in dialogue with some of the current fashion trends, especially the rise of “Freaked Formal”, a term coined by Alex Warren for i-D. This can be seen with the romantic, ruffled necklines of the AW25 collections for Ralph Lauren and Chanel, as well as the subversive twists we are witnessing in street fashion that seem to be echoing the cultural movement of the New Romantics. 

The New Romantic movement was a subculture that originated in the UK during the late 70s and early 80s. They were sometimes referred to as “Blitz Kids” as they could often be found congregating in the iconic Blitz Club that housed 80s legends such as Boy George, Gary Kemp of Spandau Ballet and Princess Julia. It wasn’t about who you knew or who you were that would get you into Blitz; it was all about style. Think of Berghein’s strict dress code policy today. Rather than Germanic techno chic, the New Romantics co-opted stereotypical 18th-century romanticism and subverted it through maximalist outfits with statement hair and makeup. In Alex Warren’s article on “Freaked Formal”, we can see these sensibilities creeping back in: big pearl necklaces, formal silhouettes and ruffles galore.

The subculture arose out of a deep recession in the UK, and it is unsurprising that, in the current economic and political climate, it’s making a comeback (did somebody say “recession indicator”?). With the rise of conservatism and the fact that so few of us can afford the facade of affluence signified by couture gowns and three-piece suits, more of us than ever seem to be excluded from the world of glamour. It’s therefore unsurprising that now is the time these aesthetics are making their way back into fashion as symbols of conformity ready to be torn up and subverted into a form of creative expression that riles against what these garments traditionally signify.

Want to get that “freaked formal” look? Here’s how: puffed shoulders, romantic necklines, and cravats. Shoulder pads are back in, as are tulle accents. Formal silhouettes can be DIY’d with a thrifted dress, a hot glue gun and a dream. Gender bending was a hallmark of the New Romantic style, and “Freaked Formal” is no different, with a particular emphasis on femininity regardless of who is wearing it, rather than the 80s tendency toward androgyny. Expect big bows, big frills and big hair, with quiffs and grown-out mullets both being go-tos this season. I would also throw a statement faux-fur coat into the mix for the subverted-starlet look.

The beauty of “Freaked Formal” is that it’s all about misinterpretation. Take something with strict parameters, then subvert it. Why not wear opera gloves with a nightgown slip? Why not pair hot pants with a bolero and statement heels? The possibilities are endless, making it a trend everyone, no matter your budget, can engage with. Let your imagination run wild, and don’t be afraid to be the most overdressed at the party. It’s chic! 

Photo credits @richardkernstudio

Now what about beauty trends? With the emphasis on the 80s in fashion this season, maximalism is in for beauty too. After the clean girl aesthetic that saw a spotlight on glass skin, monochrome minimalism and glossy finishes, the pendulum is beginning to swing into something a little more colourful. I have been seeing lots of statement eyes with a pop of colour, especially jewel-toned blues and purples. While in our collective memory all 80s looks were hugely colourful, lips tended to be glossy rather than matte, so put the liquid lipstick down…it’s not 2016. For 80s maximalism with a 2025 twist, pair sparkly, colourful eye looks with a glossy lip. But be warned: don’t pick a shade that will wash you out! While frosty, cooler tones are in fashion right now, make sure you pick a flattering shade that suits your natural undertones. If in doubt, go for something neutral with a subtle shimmer – hello, Fenty’s Gloss Bomb. 

For the base, matte foundations are making a comeback. For a Matte finish foundation, I recommend the bareMinerals Loose Powder Foundation, which has served me well over the years despite my tendency toward drier skin in the winter (remember to moisturise!). Blush blindness is also still holding strong from TikTok last year. Going hand in hand with a matte base, powder blush formulas are in vogue, so if you were looking to dive back into your cheeky-named Nars Powder Blushes, now is a good time! For beauty on a budget, Kiko Milano’s Unlimited Blush offers an ultra-pigmented alternative. In the era of maximalism, it’s go big or go home, so don’t be afraid to lay it on thick! 

What trends will you be trying out this season? Leave us a comment on Instagram and keep an eye out as we turn our attention to Spring / Summer 2026. Stay freaky!

Beauty: @labelle.london @joyadeguna @gracemariaellington