Fine wine: How our favourite tipples are influencing our outfit choices

compiled by Megan Burns and Sinéad Keenan

As winter rolls around, it can be tempting to reach for our staple dark tones, but this season, contributing fashion stylist Sinéad Keenan explains, the catwalks offered a sophisticated alternative. “Deep, rich hues, reminiscent of fine wine and ripe berries, have made their mark across designer collections from New York to Paris, offering an elegant and versatile alternative to the usual winter blacks and greys. From sumptuous merlot to plush plum, these shades bring an elevated feel to any outfit.

Whether it took centre stage or was incorporated in more subtle ways, wine tones were ubiquitous throughout this season’s collections. From head-to-toe layered tailoring at Roksanda, to leather at Erdem, and a sequined gown at Emilia Wickstead, its versatility was on show. “The shade has a timeless, classic feel but can also be refreshingly modern when styled in contemporary cuts or mixed with unexpected colours and textures,” Sinéad points out.

“One of the most exciting aspects of this burgundy takeover is how designers played with texture to add depth and dimension to the colour. There were folds of buttery leather at Zimmerman, Khaite and Bottega Veneta, while Prabal Gurung showcased an oversized wrap encompassing the body in a deep wine leather, trimmed with tonal shearling. This interplay of sheen and matte finish gave the colour an almost tactile quality, inviting you to reach out and feel the richness.”

For an easy introduction to these hues, Sinéad points to the accessories that shone through on the catwalks. “Gucci’s collection cemented the shade as the hero colour for AW24, featuring burgundy pieces such as this season’s must-have over-the-knee boots, and towering platform loafers.” Wine-toned bags also appeared in many collections. “Victoria Beckham’s coveted pocketbook popped when contrasted with her rich camel and navy wool fabrics, and Bottega Veneta’s patent croc clutch demonstrated how a well-placed accessory can transform an otherwise understated look. Chemena Kamali also championed sleek burgundy over-the-knee boots in her debut collection for Chloé, giving her ethereal ruffled chiffon dresses a harder contrast, but in a softer hue to blend the delicate fabrics seamlessly with the leather accessories.”

If you’re keen to try out the trend, Sinéad says it’s a universally flattering colour, and is easy to pair with other shades. “Whether you embrace it in a full head-to-toe look or introduce it through accessories, this rich, luxurious hue is guaranteed to add warmth, depth, and sophistication to your wardrobe,” she explains. “It’s time to raise a glass to burgundy… or merlot, or claret, or Bordeaux!”