Arnotts remind us that lightness, relief and joy can still be found in your wardrobe this season

Arnotts launched their autumn winter 2020 womenswear collections today through one to one appointments and a pop-up fashion exhibition in-store.

As around the globe a deadly virus continues to spread, you could be forgiven for thinking that a new season of fashion no longer holds merit. The pandemic has certainly given the fashion industry a new, and much needed, perspective on its relentless pace, ravenous appetite for new trends and the pressure under which the industry places people and the planet.

But on the day that whispered shouts move around the country about a second lockdown, Arnotts have reminded us that lightness, relief and joy can still be found through your winter wardrobe.

Party season

Fee G Sequin Embroidered Midi Dress, €265 

We might have nowhere to go, but you better believe we will still get dressed up. Party season will be different this year, but even if it is just in our living room, autumn winter calls for decadent dressing. The hero dress this season is defined by full sleeve silhouettes and flouncy necklines adorned in metallic yarns, jacquards and foil printed surfaces. We are so excited to see taffeta, velvet, tulle and silks across Danish contemporary favourites, DAY Birger et Mikkelsen, Custommade and Samsoe & Samsoe. We can hear clinking champagne flutes in our future.

Sustainable choices

Fabienne Chapot Eva Flare Jeans, €147

Sustainability continues as a prominent theme with industry leaders, Fabienne Chapot, Samsoe & Samsoe and Selected Femme exhibiting ageless pieces designed to be worn time and time again. Mary Claffey, Arnotts Womenswear Buyer, said “We are making conscious decisions with our buys and we are delighted to have new brands leading the force of change like Custommade and their ‘By Numbers’ limited edition collection”. We were especially excited by Custommade, a new brand for Arnotts, added to their growing and ever-popular Scandi offering.

Considered Comfort

Samsoe Samsoe Keiko Chunky Knit Sweater, €146

Comfort is king when working from home, but over the year we’ve realised that combining comfort with style, is what keeps us really happy. Luxe and easy to wear silhouettes are key this season in Arnotts.  Cocooning, cosy shapes from Marella, Max & Co. and Lauren envelope the body in comfort and warmth. For statement appeal, we are looking forward to experimenting with jumbo fleece outerwear in softly sculpted shapes. Tie it all together with a warm, tonal palette of grey, white and beige for a sartorial finish.

Irish Design

Caroline Kilkenny The Sammy Dress, €270

Arnotts are great supporters of Irish designers, who now more than ever need our support. This season sees a soft, fluid femininity in all of the Irish collections. Sheer volume blouses and A-line shapes in a harmonious blend of autumnal hues offer a relaxed look that will compliment women of all ages and shapes.

Related: The 5 items you need for an autumn capsule wardrobe and where to find them vintage

Related: ‘We are in a new era of consumption’: Vestiaire Collective’s Sophie Hersan weighs in on the rise of vintage during Covid-19

Related: Clothes-swapping app Nuw provides the perfect sustainable fashion platform