Farewell Summer, Hello Shimmer: Metallic Trends For Autumn
Welcome to the Shimmering Season Ahead
As the dog days of summer start to wind down, fashion enthusiasts eagerly await the metallic sheen of autumn. This year, fashion forecasters predict a particularly dazzling array of shimmering fabrics and finishes illuminating the fall runways and shops. From the stark gleam of silver to the molten glow of copper, metallic textures will add high-impact style to autumn wardrobes. Whether it’s a touch of sparkle on an accessory or an eye-catching metallic skirt, shimmering metallics are the trend to watch as we say farewell to summer and embrace the glitz of the upcoming season.
Shimmery Fabric Textures
Metallic and shimmery textures are going to be huge for fall fashion trends this year. Luxurious fabrics like velvet, satin, lame, and sequins are perfect ways to add some glitz and glamour to your autumn wardrobe.
Velvet is having a major moment, with its smooth and lustrous texture that catches the light. From velvet dresses to pants, it’s a cozy yet elegant fabric. Look for jewel-toned or metallic velvets to really play up the shine factor. As one source states, “The opulent softness of velvet makes it perfect for the festive season” (Texture Fashion Trends (Part 2) Fall 2023 Winter 2024).
Satin is another go-to for adding luxurious texture. Whether it’s a blouse, slip skirt or dress, satin has a distinctive sheen. Go for rich shades like emerald, sapphire or garnet.
Satin fabrics with embossed patterns and textured weaves are also popular for fall.
Sequins and lame instantly evoke an air of glamour. A sequined skirt, metallic lame top or dress encrusted in jewels are showstopping pieces. Look for art deco and floral inspired details. As noted, “Streams of liquid silver snake around the body and shoulders of lame cocktail dresses” (Trend Alert for Fall ’21: Shiny, Sparkly, & Metallic).
Rose Gold
Rose gold continues to be a popular metallic shade going into autumn. This romantic pinkish-gold tone pairs beautifully with fall’s earthy color palette. According to this article, rose gold jewelry like ruby and rose gold earrings will be everywhere this season.
On the fashion front, rose gold clothing and accessories will also be on trend. From rose gold shoes and handbags to blouses and coats in shimmering rose gold fabrics, this feminine metallic shade will lend a romantic vibe to fall outfits. Pinterest boards like this one are full of inspiration for incorporating rose gold into your autumnal wardrobe.
Silver
Silver has emerged as a leading fashion trend for fall 2023, particularly for handbags, shoes, and jewelry. According to Fashion Magazine, the rich metallic hue is a wearable basic that adds a touch of glamour. The style experts at Vogue also predict silver will be big for 2023 across accessories and clothing.
Silver handbags are forecast to be a top trend, providing the perfect neutral accessory that still makes a statement. From mini bags to large totes, silver adds a touch of shine. Silver shoes are also on the rise, with strappy sandals, pumps, and booties getting the metallic treatment. Jewelry is another area where we’ll see more silver in 2023. Layered silver necklaces and stacks of bracelets and rings will provide an effortless way to wear the trend.
Gold
Gold jewelry and accessories are poised to make a major comeback for fall 2023. According to Vogue, “There’s an extravagance to the season’s jewels that suggests a renewed appetite for opulence.” (Vogue) Designers emphasized statement gold pieces, from chunky link necklaces and cuffs to oversized hoops and chandelier earrings. The bold gold accessories provide a luxe complement to autumn’s rich textures and colors.
Gold bags are also having a moment, offering a chic counterpoint to fall’s earthy palette. From mini purses to roomy totes, gold handbags add a touch of glamour. Bottega Veneta featured basket-weave leather bags in shimmering gold, while Staud showed metallic gold bucket bags. For evening, glittering gold minaudières make an entrance-making accessory.
Not just reserved for accents, gold clothing and shoes allow one to be draped in luxury. Designers like Alberta Ferretti, David Koma, and Tom Ford incorporated golden hues into dresses, skirts, boots and more. The overall effect is simultaneously lavish and cool.
Bronze
Fall is the perfect time to embrace the rich, warm tones of bronze. This luxe metallic shade adds elegance to beauty and fashion looks. According to Glamour, bronze makeup will be a top trend for autumn 2023.
Bronze eyeshadow, lipstick, and blush create a glamorous, sun-kissed glow perfect for the season. Maybelline recommends pairing bronze foundation and bronzer for an all-over radiance. Look for shadows with a metallic sheen or frosted, coppery finishes. Bronze eyeliner and mascara can make eyes pop.
On nails, bronze polish exudes sophistication. Essie and OPI have beautiful bronze lacquers with names like Penny Talk and Worth a Pretty Penne. For clothing, bronze adds flair to accessories and jewel tones pair well with it. Metallic bronze shoes and bags shine for evening while bronze knits or puffer jackets bring stylish warmth.
Copper
Copper hair color is going to be huge for autumn 2023. The rich, warm tone is perfect for the fall season. According to InStyle, copper hair works well on blondes, brunettes, and redheads. There are many shades of copper hair color to choose from like light copper, dark copper, and muted copper. The color flatters both warm and cool skin tones.
Copper colored makeup is also trending for fall. Coppery shades of eyeshadow, lipstick, and blush will be popular. Try a rose gold or burnt orange shadow on the lid paired with a chocolate brown in the crease. A brick red lipstick with copper flecks is sultry for night. For day, use a peach blush with a soft bronze shimmer.
In terms of accessories, copper jewelry like earrings, necklaces, and cuff bracelets will be essential fall pieces. Copper shoes and handbags are stylish touches. Or try a copper phone case or notebook to incorporate the metallic in a more subtle way.
Mercury
The metallic shade Mercury brings a cool, silvery gray color to clothing and accessories for fall 2023. This muted metallic provides a sophisticated alternative to brighter golds and silvers. Mercury merges gray and silver for a soft shimmering effect.
Designers like Chanel and Alexander McQueen featured Mercury metallic grays for fall.Source Look for Mercury in light-catching fabrics like satin, silk, sequins and lame for gorgeous shimmer. Mercury also pairs beautifully with cerulean blue and blush pink.Source
Conclusion
This autumn, say farewell to summer and welcome the shimmering metallic trends hitting the runways. Rose gold, silver, gold, bronze, copper, and mercury tones are lighting up everything from dresses to boots. These lustrous hues add glamour and sophistication to any outfit.
Look for ways to incorporate metallic pieces into your wardrobe this season. Add some shine with a rose gold skirt or mercury blouse. Or opt for metallic accessories like a gold belt, bronze shoes, or a copper handbag. However you choose to try the trend, metallics are a chic way to usher in the new season.
Expert Biography
Janelle Smith has over 10 years of experience as a fashion editor and stylist. She studied fashion design at Parsons School of Design and worked her way up in the industry, starting as an assistant stylist before being promoted to lead stylist and eventually fashion editor at Glamour magazine.
Janelle is considered an expert in seasonal color trends and has a keen eye for forecasting the next big metallic shade. She has worked with top designers during Fashion Week and styled celebrity photo shoots for the likes of Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire. When not on photo shoots, Janelle enjoys blogging about her fashion insights.
