Top seasonal fashion trends

This season, fashion takes a bold yet wearable turn, with a strong focus on individuality and comfort. Zanna Roberts Rassi highlights that Australian style is embracing a mix of relaxed silhouettes and elevated basics, perfect for transitioning between the warmer and cooler months. Think oversized blazers paired with tailored shorts, and lightweight knits layered over flowing midi dresses.

One of the standout trends is the return of earthy tones and natural textures. Shades like terracotta, olive, and sand are dominating the colour palette, reflecting the Australian landscape and lifestyle. These hues are being seen across everything from linen sets to structured handbags, offering a grounded yet sophisticated aesthetic.

“Australians have always had a knack for effortless style,” says Zanna. “This season, it’s all about mixing comfort with polish—think luxe loungewear, wide-leg trousers, and crisp cotton shirts that can take you from brunch to beach.”

Another key trend is the resurgence of 90s minimalism. Clean lines, monochrome outfits, and sleek accessories are making a comeback, offering a refreshing contrast to the more maximalist looks of previous seasons. This pared-back approach is ideal for the Australian climate and lifestyle, allowing for easy layering and versatility.

For those looking to make a statement, bold prints and vibrant colours are also having a moment. From abstract florals to geometric patterns, these eye-catching designs are perfect for injecting personality into your wardrobe. Zanna suggests balancing these with neutral staples to keep the look grounded and wearable.

Key seasonal trends to watch include:

• Oversized tailoring in lightweight fabrics
• Earthy tones and natural fibres like linen and cotton
• 90s-inspired minimalism with a modern twist
• Bold prints and colour-blocking for standout pieces
• Layered textures for depth and dimension

These trends reflect a broader shift towards sustainability and mindful fashion choices, with many Australian designers focusing on quality over quantity. Zanna notes that investing in timeless pieces that can be styled multiple ways is not only chic but also practical for the ever-changing Australian weather.

Expert styling tips from Zanna

When it comes to styling the season’s top trends, Zanna Roberts Rassi recommends starting with a strong foundation of versatile basics and building from there. Her approach is all about creating balance—mixing structured pieces with relaxed silhouettes, and pairing bold statements with understated classics.

“The key to great style is knowing how to adapt trends to suit your lifestyle,” Zanna explains. “In Australia, that means outfits that can take you from a morning coffee run to an afternoon by the coast, all while looking effortlessly put together.”

One of her go-to styling tricks is to play with proportions. For example, if you’re wearing wide-leg trousers, opt for a fitted top or a tucked-in blouse to define your shape. Conversely, if you’re embracing the oversized blazer trend, balance it with a sleek mini skirt or slim-fit jeans to keep the look streamlined.

Layering is another essential technique, especially with Australia’s unpredictable weather. Zanna suggests lightweight knits over slip dresses or pairing a cropped jacket with a maxi skirt. This not only adds visual interest but also allows for easy transitions between indoor and outdoor settings.

Accessories, she says, are where you can really express your personality. Whether it’s a chunky sandal, a woven crossbody bag, or a pair of statement earrings, the right accessory can elevate even the simplest outfit. Zanna encourages experimenting with textures and finishes—think raffia, metallics, and resin—to add depth to your look.

For those hesitant to dive into bold prints or vibrant colours, Zanna recommends starting small. “Try a printed scarf, a colourful clutch, or even a bright pair of sunglasses. These little touches can make a big impact without overwhelming your outfit.”

Her top styling tips for the season include:

• Balance oversized pieces with fitted items to maintain shape
• Layer with intention—mix textures and lengths for dimension
• Use accessories to inject personality and polish
• Start with neutral basics and add trend-driven pieces gradually
• Don’t be afraid to mix high and low—style is about confidence, not cost

Ultimately, Zanna’s advice centres on authenticity and ease. She believes that the best-dressed Australians are those who dress for themselves, not just the trends. “Fashion should feel good,” she says. “It’s about expressing who you are, not fitting into a mould.”

Must-have pieces for your wardrobe

Building a wardrobe that works year-round in Australia’s diverse climate means investing in a few key pieces that offer both style and versatility. Zanna Roberts Rassi has curated a list of must-haves that form the backbone of a modern, trend-aware wardrobe—pieces that can be dressed up or down, layered with ease, and worn across multiple seasons.

“Think of these as your fashion toolkit,” says Zanna. “They’re the items you’ll reach for again and again, no matter what’s trending.”

• The Oversized Blazer: A staple that instantly elevates any outfit. Choose a neutral tone like beige or charcoal for maximum versatility. Throw it over a slip dress for dinner or pair it with denim shorts for a casual brunch look.
• Wide-Leg Trousers: Comfortable yet polished, these are perfect for work or weekend wear. Opt for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton blends to suit the Australian heat.
• The Crisp White Shirt: A timeless classic that works with everything from tailored pants to relaxed denim. Zanna recommends an oversized cut for a modern twist—perfect for layering or wearing solo.
• Midi Slip Dress: Ideal for layering, this piece can be worn with a tee underneath during the day or dressed up with heels and statement jewellery at night. Look for silk or satin finishes for a luxe feel.
• Lightweight Knit: Essential for transitional weather, a fine knit in a neutral tone can be thrown over dresses or tucked into skirts. It’s the ultimate layering piece for unpredictable Aussie days.
• Chunky Sandals: Comfortable and on-trend, these are perfect for navigating city streets or coastal paths. Choose a pair in black or tan for maximum wearability.
• Structured Crossbody Bag: Practical and stylish, a medium-sized crossbody in a textured material like leather or raffia adds polish to any outfit while keeping your hands free.
• Statement Sunglasses: A must in the Australian sun. Go bold with oversized frames or coloured lenses to add a fashion-forward edge to your everyday look.

These pieces not only reflect the season’s top trends but also offer longevity and adaptability. Zanna emphasises the importance of choosing quality over quantity, especially when it comes to wardrobe staples. “Invest in pieces that feel good, fit well, and reflect your personal style. That’s the real secret to looking effortlessly chic.”

By focusing on these essentials, you’ll have a wardrobe that’s ready for anything—from spontaneous road trips to rooftop cocktails—without sacrificing comfort or style.

Seasonal trend highlights

This season, it’s all about embracing bold individuality with a nod to effortless sophistication. From Sydney to Melbourne, we’re seeing a strong return to elevated basics—think crisp white shirting reimagined with exaggerated cuffs, and tailored trousers in soft, breathable fabrics like linen blends. These pieces are not just wardrobe staples; they’re the foundation of a modern, versatile look that transitions seamlessly from day to night.

Colour is making a confident comeback, with rich earthy tones like terracotta, ochre, and eucalyptus green dominating the palette. These hues are not only flattering across a range of skin tones but also evoke a grounded, natural aesthetic that resonates with our Aussie lifestyle. Pair them with neutral accessories for a balanced, contemporary feel.

Texture is key this season. Designers are layering lightweight knits with structured denim and buttery-soft leather to create depth and interest. The juxtaposition of soft and structured elements adds a tactile dimension to everyday dressing, perfect for the unpredictable trans-seasonal weather we know all too well.

In terms of silhouettes, the oversized blazer continues to reign supreme. Whether styled over a slip dress or with matching wide-leg trousers, it’s the ultimate power piece. Look for versions in pastel tones or subtle checks to keep the look fresh and feminine.

Accessories are leaning into statement territory—chunky gold jewellery, sculptural handbags, and oversized sunglasses are all must-haves. Footwear is taking a practical turn with elevated flats and platform sandals offering both comfort and style, ideal for navigating city streets or coastal getaways.

“Australian women have an innate sense of relaxed polish,” says Zanna. “This season’s trends are all about amplifying that with pieces that feel luxe but liveable.”

Expert styling tips from Zanna

When it comes to styling this season’s key pieces, Zanna recommends starting with a strong foundation. “Invest in quality basics that can be layered and reworked,” she advises. A crisp oversized shirt, for example, can be worn loose over bike shorts for a sporty edge, or tucked into high-waisted trousers for a more refined silhouette. The key is versatility—pieces that move with you and adapt to your day.

For those embracing the earthy colour palette, Zanna suggests playing with tonal dressing. “Layering similar shades—like clay with rust or sage with olive—creates a rich, cohesive look that feels elevated without trying too hard,” she says. To break it up, add a pop of contrast with a bold accessory—perhaps a cobalt blue clutch or a pair of white leather slides.

Texture mixing is another of Zanna’s go-to techniques. “Don’t be afraid to pair a ribbed knit tank with a silky midi skirt or a structured denim jacket over a soft cotton dress,” she notes. This contrast not only adds visual interest but also makes your outfit feel more considered and fashion-forward.

When it comes to tailoring, Zanna is all about proportion play. “Balance is everything,” she explains. “If you’re wearing a voluminous blazer, keep the base sleek—think a fitted tank and slim trousers. Or if you’re going wide-leg on the bottom, opt for a cropped or tucked-in top to define the waist.”

Accessories, she says, are where you can really express your personality. “This season, go bold with your jewellery—layer chunky chains or mix metals for a modern twist. And don’t underestimate the power of a great pair of sunnies to instantly elevate your look.”

• Layer tonal shades for a luxe, cohesive outfit
• Mix textures to add depth and dimension
• Play with proportions to flatter your shape
• Use accessories to inject personality and polish

“Style should feel effortless, not overworked,” Zanna reminds us. “It’s about finding what makes you feel confident and building from there.”