FatFace has launched their AW25 collection including cosy charity-supporting knits, elegant occasionwear and elevated men’s pieces
The holiday season is fast approaching, and I for one have been filling my calendar with all kinds of Christmassy days out, from markets to pantomimes, parties and more. One retailer I’ve been looking to for some festive fashion inspiration is FatFace, which, over the years has become a bit of a go-to for me, both in everyday styles and dressier options.
Few brands are as distinct as FatFace, with their pieces often immediately recognisable (I can spot an Adele dress a mine off). The coastal fashion favourite has released some absolute gems for AW25, including cosy knitwear, chic occasion pieces and even some stunning picks for men, ideal for gifting, or curating a cohesive couple’s look at December gatherings.
Elsewhere, River Island’s latest collection is packed with sequins, bows, velvet – the full festive works. The retailer is offering 15% off orders over £65 for new customers with the code HEY15 – running until December 28.
Meanwhile, Aligne’s new denim range features the Mid Rise Slim Flare Diamante Jeans and the matching Trish Diamante Denim Top. Together, they create a stunning co-ord that offers enough sparkle for the festive season, while remaining versatile enough for styling throughout the year.
As for FatFace, I’ve taken a look through the latest releases, and I’ve picked out my top four, including a dazzling frock I’ll be donning at every opportunity this season, as well as a timeless jumper that is helping support the homeless.
For me, their standout piece this season has to be the Liza Bronze Regular Cowl Neck Maxi Dress. Priced at £85, it’s from the brand’s exclusive Copper & Black party collection and is ‘designed to turn heads’ – and turn heads it does (it did mine, anyway).
The maxi dress, perfect for winter weddings, is made in a soft, breathable fabric with a heavy draped satin feel so it flows and moves beautifully. The body-skimming shape and cowl neck give it a really elegant feel, while the asymmetric seam detail sets it apart from some of the potentially more affordable options on the high street.
The only downside is that, while the dress is offered in a range of sizes from 6-24 in short and regular, there’s sadly no long option for taller shoppers. As an alternative, Next has this Rust Brown Satin Cowl Neck Wedding Guest Bridesmaid Maxi Dress for £65. This stunning piece is made from a beautiful lightweight satin fabric for flattering fit, coming in tall and regular lengths.
Back at FatFace, the Violet Gold Prom Tulle Skirt is my second pick, selected as it reminded me of one of the outfits Claudia Winkleman wore on The Celebrity Traitors. The skirt is £89, so a little bit more expensive than the dress, but a surprisingly versatile option nonetheless.
Whimsical and a little romantic, the skirt can be teamed up with ruffly blouses or knits for a feminine feel, or channel Claudia with boots and leather for an edgier vibe. But much like the dress, it only comes in short and regular.
Elsewhere, for even more drama, there’s the Cream Tulle Mesh maxi Skirt at River Island for £59. It features tiered mesh layers for even more volume, with an elastic waistband that makes it comfortable for all day wear.
Speaking of comfort, for those seeking cosier festive options, FatFace has once again teamed up with homelessness charity Shelter for a sixth year with the release of their Ivory Shelter Knitted Fairisle Crew Neck Jumper. Priced at £58, the sweater features a classic fairisle pattern for a timeless winter look.
The alpine-inspired jumper works over shirts, dresses or a trusty pair of jeans for an immediately Christmassy look. What’s more is that FatFace is donating 10% of sales from each one sold to the charity, making it a worthwhile option for those looking to update their holiday knit for something they can rewear year after year without feeling dated or out of style.
At M&S, customers may also like their Per Una Embellished Fair Isle Jumper with Wool, on offer for £44, down from £55. The retailer has teamed the skirt with a tulle skirt similar to the ones mentioned above, though this particular option wouldn’t see a donation to charity with the purchase.
Last but not least, my final FatFace pick is the Rust Brown Long Sleeve Dogtooth Shirt for £55. Made from 100% cotton, it’s soft and breathable, designed in a slightly heavier weight so it’s ideal for layering in the colder months.
The rust-brown dogtooth print gives it a smart, heritage feel, and the tones pair perfectly with the aforementioned Liza dress, making it a great choice for people wanting to create a couple’s look that feels complimentary without being too matchy.
Pair with some chino trousers and loafers for dinner with friends or layer with a t-shirt and jeans for a casual weekend look. It also comes in a good range of sizes too, from XS to 4XL in the regular length, and M to 4XL in tall. Shoppers can explore the new in FatFace pieces online.
