As the heat finally starts to abate and we begin to look forward to autumn and winter, it’s time to start thinking about a wardrobe refresh. We’ve been checking out the Autumn-Winter 2024 catwalks and collections to come up with some of the latest trends. And we also spoke with some of our local fashion talents and ‘names in the know’ to see what’s on their wish lists for the coming months.

The Overview
Maha Ghanim Al Sulaiti, Director of M7, Qatar’s design, fashion and tech hub gives her view on the state of the country’s creative industries.
“With a rapidly developing creative ecosystem, Qatar’s fashion landscape is witnessing a rise in emerging designers who are creating contemporary designs that blend tradition with innovation. The global fashion industry has begun to take notice of these burgeoning talents and the importance of connecting to the local scene, opening doors for exciting collaborations. At M7, we are proud to be at the heart of this momentum, as we actively create initiatives and programmes that nurture and support these visionary creatives to continue to grow and evolve.”

Totally Tailored

The classic gentleman is very much back in town with sharp suiting making several appearances. From dunhill to Fendi, Feragamo, Hermès and Brunello Cuncinelli, designers are in love with two- and three-piece ensembles in a range of materials from lightweight wools to heavier gaberdines. The colour palette is mostly sombre in shades of grey, another of this season’s top trends, but we love this fun lilac version from Tom Ford who also presented a stylish midnight blue velvet number.

Suited & Booted

The women’s catwalks too were awash with suits, from Ferragamo’s bright red, safari-style number, to the frou of feathers at Brunello Cucinelli. But though the tailoring is sharp, the details save this trend from stuffiness with bold graphics at KENZO, biker boots accompanying a mini-skirt at Versace and Hugo X Les Benjamins entreating wearers to show just a tiny bit of skin. However you choose to wear your AW 2024 suit, there’s no doubt, it’s one of winter’s most versatile trends.

On The Town

To say there was a lot of skin on show on the AW24 catwalks would be an understatement, with translucent garments leaving little to the imagination. However, for those who prefer a slightly less revealing look, the next big thing looks set to be shimmering metallics as seen at Tom Ford and KENZO. As always, black is still a popular choice for evening wear but, this season, it gets an added twist with feathers at Brunello Cuccinelli and an interesting cut-out neckline at Versace. And, if you’re going for colour, don’t be a shrinking violet, make sure it’s bold and bright.

The Tux of the Matter

The impact of a good tuxedo should never be underestimated, just look at James Bond. And this season, the classic tux got an exciting makeover with the addition of textured fabrics at Tom Ford and Billionaire and gorgeously unexpected colours at Brunello Cucinelli while Coach went for a more relaxed fit. Team your tux with contrasting pants and highly polished shoes or fun pumps for the ultimate in ‘Old Hollywood’ chic.

Skin In The Game

Leather, and its faux companions, is absolutely everywhere this season. From the full-on black, skin suit, complete with black shades, boots and wrist cuffs at Tom Ford, to oversized tan coords at Ferragamo. Buttery soft, designers across the spectrum have played with dimensions and tailoring to render this usually outdoor staple as everyday wear in suits, shirts and more, layered beneath jackets and coats to great effect. Double seaming ensures comfort and flexibility, with the skins appearing almost as high-quality fabric.

The Leatherettes

For women, too, leather is one of the materials of the season coming in a variety of shades and cuts, from the classic black at COS to stunning reds at Versace and a gorgeously hued grey/violet at And Other Stories. Imaginative cuts take the lead coupled with chain belts and matchy, matchy accessories for an overall look that’s feminine but, at the same time, fierce and fashion forward.

The Influencer Eye View

With more than 50,000 followers on his Instagram account @luxurydesign and collabs with brands such as Hermès and Loewe under his belt, Taleb Jassim’s is a fashion opinion worth listening to. FACT quizzed him about the ones to watch for the coming season.

What are the trends you’ve identified for AW24?
One of the standout trends for AW24 is the evolution of the classic trench coat into what we’re calling the neo-trench. This piece reinvents the timeless silhouette with modern twists, making it a must-have for the season. Think oversized cuts, unexpected fabric choices, like technical nylons or rich wools, and innovative details such as asymmetrical closures, exaggerated lapels and bold colourways.
The neo-trench is designed to be both functional and statement-making, bridging the gap between traditional outerwear and contemporary fashion. It’s versatile enough to be dressed up or down, making it a perfect addition to any wardrobe for the colder months ahead.
And BIG DENIM! This is my favourite trend right now, and it’s a classic piece that everyone has to have. This season, denim goes beyond just being a staple – it’s all about making a bold statement with oversized, exaggerated silhouettes. Think wide-leg jeans, voluminous jackets and baggy overalls that hark back to the ’90s but with a modern twist.

What are your favourite pieces that represent these trends?
For the neo-trench, it’s all about finding a trench coat that pushes the boundaries of traditional design. A perfect example would be a trench in a rich wool blend with asymmetrical buttons and an oversized silhouette or something with a distinct cut and pattern such as this one from Hole Academie.
For the big denim trend, a pair of wide-leg jeans with a vintage wash, such as these from Vetements, stand out. Paired with a chunky knit or a boxy denim jacket, they exude the casual, comfort-driven vibe that defines the season. These jeans are a nod to the past with a modern twist, making them both nostalgic and contemporary These pieces not only represent the trends but also offer versatility and style, allowing wearers to make a statement while staying true to the season’s key themes.

The Stylist’s Take

Rihab Haddar is a Qatar-based stylist, travel enthusiast and fashion commentator who delights in sharing her inspirations with her followers @rihab_qa.

She told us she’s spotted multiple trends for the coming season, many of which highlight a blend of style, comfort and social consciousness.
Some of the main ones to look out for are:
Sustainability: with a focus on eco-friendly materials and ethical production as seen at Stine Goya, which aims to be 95% sustainable within the next year.
Layering and Oversized Silhouettes: the emphasis is on comfort with bulky coats and layered outfits as seen at Prada.
Monochromatic Looks: head-to-toe single colours with varied textures for depth.
Retro Revival: nostalgic styles from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s are returning.
Statement Accessories: oversized bags, hats, as seen at CHANEL, and chunky boots are essential.
Gender Fluidity: unisex designs will be seen promoting inclusivity in fashion.

Words From The Runways

Doha based Nadiia Babiak (@nadia_ babiyak) has the kind of life we’d adore, jetting from one Fashion Week to the next – she’s currently running between Ukraine, Paris and Milano – and popping up at events such as the Cannes International Film Festival. As well as sharing her adventures with her 40,000 Instagram followers, she’s also sharing her tips for the upcoming season with us.
“The most famous trend this year is animal print. At the beginning, many of us underestimated it, but that was in vain.” Some of her top picks come from Celine, Loewe, Jacquemus and Alaia.
“Then, there are the colours of the season, Pantone’s Italian Plum, Misted Yellow, Cherry Tomato, Lucent White and Fern. Honestly, I love all of them and can’t wait to wear them during the upcoming fashion weeks. The most beautiful season is coming.”
Speaking about fashion fitness, Nadiia adds: “I also wanted to tell you that style is like a muscle that needs to be developed, that is why we sit on Pinterest and get inspired by many brands, I have chosen for you five of my favourites brands with which I train my style muscles.”
Jacquemus
You Wanna
Rhode
Frolov
Prada.

Live, Love, Local

Ghada Al Subaey, founder and designer of 1309 Studios, told FACT what her emphasis is for AW2024.

What are the most prominent trends you’ve identified for the coming season?
There is a growing emphasis on self-discovery and the exploration of archetypes, which resonates with women seeking to express different facets of their identities. This aligns with 1309 Studios’ movement towards women’s empowerment and authenticity. Another key trend involves embracing one’s dark femininity, a concept that blends traditional femininity with a more mysterious, powerful edge.
This is seen in our latest drop: The 11th Odyssey, where we used deeper and richer colour palettes, bold silhouettes and intricate details that convey strength and allure. Finally, there is a remarkable trend of balancing tradition with modernity.

Which pieces in your collection illustrate these trends or could be adapted to them?
Our latest drop embodies the concept of dark femininity as it features deeper colour tones, structured silhouettes and intricate detailing that reflect the powerful aspects of femininity. Our designs push boundaries while staying true to 1309’s iconic colours and core style, making them both relevant and timeless. Standout pieces like the Aria and Amar prints showcase our innovative approach. The Aria print transports you to an enchanted wonderland, with a forest under an eclipse, mystic butterflies and sunflowers, while Amar is a bold monogram print of contrasting crescent moons, creating a visually captivating yet elegant look. Another highlight is the Ying bisht, made from our custom lace, which holds a special place in this collection as it incorporates Arab narration for the first time.

Blending Culture And Tradition

Qatar-based, Latin American designer Lorenaa Michelle is known for marrying her international heritage with the Middle East’s time-honoured garments. She shares her thoughts on what will be hot in the coming months.

What trends do you see coming for AW2024?
I see a revolving impact of upcycling and recycled materials with bold colours and prints emerging for the upcoming winter trends. There will be a rise in retro inspirations throughout, with vintage prints making a comeback. The 1970s and ‘90s will continue to have an influence in the blend of practicality, nostalgia and innovation.

Which pieces from your collections would match with these trends?
Throughout my collections, I always incorporate a cultural fusion, blending traditional motifs and, most importantly, comfort in modern silhouettes.

Dare To Wear

It’s no secret that, at FACT, while we do truly love fashion, we also sometimes find it more than a little ridiculous. And everyone knows that, often, what you see on the runways, is very different from what filters down to the mass market in which most of us shop. Here, we feature some of the more bonkers looks from the AW24 runways – mostly because we want to introduce you to the absolute nuttiness that is the brand, Lover Boy. Model painted blue? Check. Zebra print Wellies? Check. What more could you want?
Of course, they’re not the only ones going for looks that are slightly bizarre. Balenciaga, always good for a bit of a laugh, walked models with hats pulled right over the faces. Ferragamo, amongst its many beautiful looks, sent out one poor chap in what appears to be a woollen shorted safari suit, Versace did its usual print overkill, JW Anderson featured men in printed, floor-length frocks (perhaps not so unusual these days) and Coach went cutesy with a giant, yellow duck sweater.
Must admit, we’re quite taken with Lover Boy’s pink dinosaur/crocodile head. Which would you dare to wear?. ✤