It is a truth universally acknowledged that a change of season often demands a fashion reset. This winter, there's plenty of inspiration for fresh style takes, and after more Instagram scrolling that I care to admit, I think I've honed in on the key trends that have transitioned from the runways to the wardrobes of our favourite tastemakers. The good news? You don't need to have a designer budget to pull them off.
There's a plethora of trends to explore this winter, from the bold to the more understated. As someone who's not usually too distracted by trends, especially in the cold months, I was pleased to see that a lot of classics have been refreshed as certified runway favourites. Elevated basics like cardigans have become a bonafide fashion essential, while nostalgic classics like check prints and suede jackets continue to pop up up more and more on my Instagram feed. That being said, for those looking to mix up their usual go-tos with statement pieces, you're in luck— leopard print accessories, feather-trimmed dresses and exaggerated barrel-leg silhouette jeans are just a few of the eye-catching trends set to dominate this season..
Whichever trend catches your eye, you don't have to worry that investing in it is going to break the bank—high-street favourites like Mango, H&M and COS have become experts at predicting and re-creating top runway and street style trends at much more attainable price points. Here, I've gathered the affordable winter trends I'm planning to wear all season long and beyond.
1. CARDIGANS
Style Notes: If there's one layering piece you need to own this season, it's a cardigan. This classic, humble style is making a major comeback, with fashion lovers buttoning it up over t-shirts or wearing solo as a top.
Shop the Trend:
You'll never regret owning a cosy black cardigan.
This colour is perfect for brightening up a winter wardrobe.
If you like a cinched waist, this knit is for you.
A cosy dream.
The colour of the season.
2. BURGUNDY
Style Notes: If there's one colour that's dominating the season, it's burgundy. This warm, deep red is popping up everywhere, from handbags to knitwear, and is the ideal hue for your cold weather colour palette.
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Pair with knee-high boots and you're set.
Style with a fitted cardigan or a slouchy oversized knit.
Wear to the office with a cashmere jumper and loafers.
Go on, get the matching skirt, too.
This ticks off the suede trend, too—more on that later.
3. CHECK, PLEASE
Style Notes: Nostalgia is in the air this season, with designers looking to the preppy aesthetic of the English countryside wardrobe for inspiration. The result is the return of checks, and this year that means more of a minimalist take on preppy looks, rather than the grunge aesthetic of the Nineties.
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Such an easy way to add a polished touch to any outfit.
This blazer is selling out quick, and it's easy to see why.
I love the subtle Western vibe of this burgundy check shirt.
This is high on my winter coat wish list.
I'd style it exactly like this.
4. POINTED-TOE
Style Notes: So long, almond and square toe shoes. The pointed-toe is back, and the sharper the point, the better. Whether in ballet flat, boot or classic stiletto form, this is the shoe to own this season.
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Glossy perfection.
The kind of shoe you could use to elevate a simple jeans look, as well as pair with your go-to party look.
These exude Scandi cool.
Wear with jeans, skirts, dresses—everything.
The cowboy boot is well and truly back.
5. FAUX FEATHER DETAILS
Style Notes: This season, designers have been leaning into mixing textures and fabrics to create dynamic pieces, and one really stands out—faux feathers. Perfect for your next party ensemble, a feather-trimmed dress, skirt or top does all the work for you in creating a standout look.
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A flamingo vision.
Such a great option for winter parties.
Or go for the top version!
Nod to the trend with this glamorous bag.
Button up with black jeans for a cool daytime look.
6. SUEDE
Style Notes: Another texture that's come to the top of the fashion insider's wish list is suede. I've already spotted so many suede jackets on Instagram and IRL—just make sure to save yours for a non-rainy day.
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Oh, yes.
I love the relaxed fit of this bomber.
Unbelievable elegant.
Perfect for pairing with tailored trousers and pointed-toe heels.
This also speaks to the boho trend—see more below.
7. WINTER BOHO
Style Notes: Thanks largely to creative director Chemena Kamali's latest collection for Chloé, romantic bohemian styles are very much back in fashion. For autumn/winter, that means multi-tiered chiffon dresses, Western-inspired boots and fringed jackets.
Shop the Trend:
Fringed jackets are a brilliant way to embrace the boho look.
A gorgeously romantic dress.
This colour is perfect for winter.
No one would believe this is a high street find.
Style with knee-high suede boots and a satchel bag and you've got a chic boho ensemble.
8. BARREL-LEG
Style Notes: Every autumn/winter a new jeans silhouette comes to the forefront, and this season it's a surprising one—the barrel-leg. Let these curved-silhouette jeans take centre stage and pair yours with a fitted top and jacket.
Shop the Trend:
Undeniably cool.
I'm such a fan of Abercrombie Fitch's denim.
These won't stay in stock for long.
An easy barrel-leg look.
Deep indigo is a top denim colour this season.
9. LEOPARD PRINT
Style Notes: Take it from us, this micro trend is about to be major. Keep an eye out this season and you'll spot leopard print everywhere to break up the cosy autumn colour palette, from handbags to knitwear, shoes to jeans.
Shop the Trend:
Fully embrace the trend with this bold dress.
Or nod to it with a Nineties-inspired bag.
So many tastemakers are loving Damson Madder this season.
I love the textured feel of these flats.
Style with a black LBD for your next night out.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
