What new fashion trends does fall bring? Designer Steffen Schraut reveals what no wardrobe should be without.
Summer is slowly coming to an end and it’s time for sweaters, long pants and cozy jackets again. “From a fashion perspective, I particularly love autumn and winter,” enthuses designer Steffen Schraut, 53, in an interview about his new autumn/winter collection for QVC. “We can combine and experiment a lot.” These trend pieces should now be in every wardrobe.
In the foreword to your current lookbook you describe fashion as a unifying element and at the same time an expression of individuality. How does that fit together?
Steffen Schraut: Fashion is not just an aesthetic statement, it also has an effect on how we connect with other people. Fashion is a universal language that requires no words to express who we are and what we feel. At the same time, it is a key to emphasizing our personality and our uniqueness. My goal is achieved when I can put a smile on the faces of women and the people around them with my fashion.
What are your personal favorite pieces from your new fall/winter collection?
Schraut: My personal favorite is the wool cape coat with short sleeves and fringes. It is an unobtrusive eye-catcher, can be combined with almost anything and is perfect for the transitional period. Since I personally like to wear black, I particularly like these pieces – guaranteed to be timeless and yet fashionably at the forefront.
Which colors dominate this fall and winter?
Schraut: Black and beige tones form a perfect basis. Accents can be set with colored accessories and shoes. But color blocking is also popular again this season. Orange is making a comeback as a statement color, goes wonderfully with green and purple, but also works its magic in combination with more subtle colors.
What are the trend pieces of the season?
Schraut: Boots, boots, boots – they are not only cool and stylish, but also practical and go well with skirts, dresses and trousers. And of course your favorite coat shouldn’t be missing – in trench coat style or cozy quilted.
When it gets colder, we can’t do without jackets. How do we not only manage to stay warm, but also look well styled?
Schraut: From a fashion perspective, I particularly love autumn and winter. We can combine and experiment a lot. The motto is: the more layers, the more scope. The layering look is currently in trend – the fashionable form of the onion look. What’s important here is the skilful combination of styles, colors, materials and lengths – for example skinny jeans, boots or sneakers, a tight-fitting turtleneck sweater, a fitted leather jacket and, when it gets colder, my wool cape coat over it.
Which cuts, patterns and materials should we focus on now?
Schraut: Here too it depends on the mix. I like playing with contrasts. Fine, shiny fabrics combined with matt, firmer materials. Or a conscious break in style with boots and a leather jacket with a pleated skirt or blouse. Leather and leather look are very popular right now. And animal prints are here to stay – in combination with other patterns, monochrome pieces or as an all-over look.
What advice would you give to women who would like to wear more colors and patterns but just don’t have the courage?
Schraut: I would advise you to start slowly. Accessories such as scarves or handbags are best suited for this. Many people find it helpful to first look for inspiration in fashion magazines or on social media profiles and then try out and experiment with a few styles at home. In the end, it’s always about feeling good. Because that’s what we radiate and what makes every look perfect.
You have been a successful fashion designer for over 20 years. How do you manage to stay inspired and creative? Do you have a muse?
Schraut: I don’t have one muse, even though many of my fans know that Beyonc has always inspired me since the beginning of my career. But all the fashion-conscious women who surround me are crucial to my creativity. I let my personality and look work their magic on me and always get new inspiration from it.
Since launching in January 2022, your line has developed into one of the most successful QVC designer fashion brands under the motto “Luxury with Love”. What makes you and your fashion so popular?
Schraut: One of the most important reasons for working with QVC was the special proximity to the audience. I can talk to my customers, advise them and get direct feedback. This is very valuable and unique. At the same time, I have gained more creative freedom, which is also reflected in my collections.
You are successful with the live shopping company not only with your fashion, but also with your accessories and your own home collection. What role does interior play for you as a fashion expert and where does your inspiration for the designs come from?
Schraut: With my own home collection, I have realized a long-held dream. Anyone who takes a look at my apartment in Düsseldorf knows that interior design is another great passion alongside fashion and my passion for sneakers. The connection between modern aesthetics and a feel-good character is the basis for everything I design. My apartment is a refuge where I can retreat and be surrounded by the things I love. I find inspiration for this in art and traveling. Two of my favorite places have also become the subject of the current home collection – New York and St. Moritz.
