Temperatures are dropping quickly, trees are bare and the grass is beginning to be fully covered in white, which can only mean that winter is in full swing. For most of us living in the northern part of the country, a winter wardrobe consists of sweaters, scarfs and our beloved puffy down jacket that, based on its size, could probably double as a sleeping bag. But despite the ferociously cold weather and your desire to wrap yourself in a blanket for the day rather than put on real human clothes, winter fashion trends are some of the best and allow you to stay warm while also being fashion forward. So whether you’re a real adult living in the city with your grown-up job, or a college student trying to make it to your 8 a.m. on time, here are five winter trends you can sport for this upcoming season.
Tall Boots:
Knee or thigh high boots are one of the biggest winter trends this season. Not only are they extremely flattering (making your legs look ten times as long as they actually are), but they also keep you surprisingly warm. For you working girls I suggest a pair with a small heel so you can wear them to work with your favorite sweater dress. College girls; try a flat shoe in black so it is easy to style with any outfit. Now to most people, boots that cover half your body can seem a little intimidating, so here are a few ways to wear tall boots for any style or occasion.
Plaid:
Resurrecting from the ashes of the “school girl” trend, plaid is making a comeback. I’m not talking about the flannel type of plaid; I’m talking about the Burberry, preppy private school, "Gossip Girl" kind of plaid. There are so many ways to incorporate plaid into your winter wardrobe, even if your personal style isn’t preppy. A plaid scarf is always a great way to add a visually appealing layer to your outfit, or try plaid in a monochrome color palette to keep your outfit more subdued. If you’re feeling particularly bold, a plaid winter coat is always classy and elegant, especially in a wide set pattern. So go ahead and channel your inner NYC private school kid and throw on some plaid, it’ll be sure to keep your outfit cozy and on trend.
Fur Vests:
Fur vests, or faux fur vests for the animal lovers and cost conscious people, are all over the market this winter. Whether your vest is high-end designer or off the Forever 21 rack, fur vests can add an extra layer of warmth, as well as a somewhat glamorous vibe to your winter outfit. They are also a great transition piece for day to night. Pair it with a sweater and leggings for the day, or throw it on over jeans and a blouse for the night, keep the color neutral and versatile. Embrace the Kardashian inside of you and sport fur this winter, you’ll be sure to turn heads while still staying warm.
Suede:
With '70s inspired clothing being all over the autumn/winter 2015-2016 fashion runways, the suede trend is inevitably popular this winter. Considering suede is just a simple fabric, there are endless ways to incorporate suede into your winter wardrobe. Boots are the most common suede trend, but it is also frequently seen on handbags and vests. Its soft texture brings warmth into any outfit, and when layered with other fabrics (fur, cotton, knits) suede can easily make your winter outfit on trend and runway inspired.
Oversized Collar Coats:
Coats are an obvious winter wardrobe staple. This season however, the new coat trend is coats with big oversized collars. Usually this type of coat is found in a wool material in order for the collar to nicely fall over your shoulders. This type of coat instantly makes any winter outfit look elegant and trendy in an effortless manner. Get one that falls to your knees, or mid thigh, in order to ensure a high level of warmth. Large collared coats are also ideally paired with a chunky scarf to keep your neck and chest fully covered and protected from the cold winter air. This is one of my personal favorite trends this season and I predict it will stay around for a while.
