As the climate crumbles, the cost-of-living crisis surges and the doom and gloom of current affairs rolls on, it’s not a surprise that the most obvious trend coming off the Fall/Winter 2023 runways is that of a warmth protector - the humble blanket. Easy to throw on (and take off), one-size-fits-all, and accessorised with a great pair of heels or weather-appropriate boots, the blanket is no longer just for snuggling up on the sofa. They're now making an appearance on the runway and into our wardrobes. 

Historically, blankets were donned as cloaks or shawls to keep warm during cold weather, and in the wake of the pandemic combined with the rise of comfort dressing, they have become a popular accessory outside of the house once more. Of course, we’ve seen duvet dressing trends emerge from former collections but this coming season is all about a blanket wrapping sensibility. 

Across London, Milan and Paris, designers like Burberry, Akris, Coperni, Saint Laurent, Loewe, and Etro have adopted the trend and expertly incorporated cosy comforters into their autumn/winter 2023 collections. 

Daniel Lee’s debut for Burberry came out of the gate with designs rooted in “Britishness” - think ducks, roses and wellies. The set’s seats were draped in blankets (each with its own hot bottle cosy’s) and soon models were walking down the runway draped in said blankets.  The oversized swathes of fabric, styled as capes and shawls, were not only fashioned from traditional Burberry plaids, but also introduced new patterns, textures, and colours. Etro presented some of the best options for blanket fashion in Milan however, with a hoard of tartan shawls and blanket-inspired jackets and coats thrown over looks incarnated from the heritage brand’s archive. Pairing fringing, embroidery, paisley and polka-dot with warm woollen wraps in an abundance of colourways to achieve the ultimate eclectic bohemian look.

As Swiss heritage brand Akris continues to celebrate its 100th-year anniversary, it too borrowed from home comforts. In their Part II show, Creative Director Albert Kriemler enhanced his signature clean lines with blanket-like fabrics draped and wrapped around the body to create an elegantly nonchalant look; while Parisian brand Coperni used shrouded fabrics in a more playful manner. Controversial Robo-dogs pulled a tweed and faux fur blanket wrap from Rianne Von Rompaey, while  inverted collar capelets added to the swaddled effect. 

Saint Laurent even dabbled in the trend at its 80s-inspired show - albeit with tweed shawls clipped with decorative golden broaches for a more glam alternative; and Johnathan Anderson wrapped a model at Loewe in a satin silk cloak, which was perhaps more bed sheet than blanket but we’ll allow it.

As the shows this season come to a close and the fashion flock returns to their nests, the Because team have rounded up the best blanket to buy (and wear) now!

Shop some of the best blankets around now to get ahead of the trend: