So, if you too want to give your wardrobe a stylish boost, here are the only seven winter fashion trends you need to know.
1. BOLD COLORS
Most winters we find ourselves stuck in a bit of a drab color rut, but not this time. Both Pinterest and Lyst saw major increases in searches for cold weather looks that pack a punch in bold colors like hot pink, violet, lime green or red. You don’t need to wear them from head-to-toe if that’s not you jam, but try adding a touch of something attention-grabbing, like a bright yellow sweater atop your go-to jeans, to switch things up.
Shop the trend: ASOS Design sweater ($50; $43); Express blazer ($138; $97); Banana Republic pants ($149); Susanna Monaco bodysuit ($168); Naadam cardigan ($175); Camila Coelho pants ($188); Raquel Allegra dress ($275); Dannijo dress ($276)
2. SHACKETS
We’ve been loving the shacket (a shirt/jacket combo) for a few years now, but things are really picking up heading into 2022. And while we’ll always have a soft spot for the classic wool plaid designs, other styles are also trending, including leather and shearling, so you can be sure there is a shacket out there that will fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe.
Shop the trend: Collusion ($41); Thread & Supply ($49); ASOS Curve ($64); Old Navy ($70); Sanctuary ($139); Wilfred Free ($228)
3. LEATHER PANTS
Faux-leather leggings have long been a staple in our winter rotation, but this year is all about faux-leather pants instead. The most popular versions are cut with a straight leg and are either black or some wonderfully bold color, like red or olive green. Wear them with posh classics, like a slim-fit crewneck sweater or button-up shirt, to tamper the natural rockstar vibes of the leather.
Shop the trend: Open Edit ($59); AFRM ($78); More to Come ($80); Wilfred ($148); Lovers and Friends ($210); ASOS Design ($248)
4. KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
Knee-high boots will never really be out of style, but this winter they’re at the very top of our shopping list as a must-have item, rather than just a basic staple. The best options truly are basic, featuring structured leather or suede (no slouching here) in black or brown with minimal detailing (embossed croc scales or a riding boot strap at the ankle are great, fringe down the sides or gold cape toes are not). Wear them with skinny jeans or leggings and a tailored blazer or with skirts or dresses that hit at least two inches above the top of your boots.
Shop the trend: Journee Collection ($77); Steve Madden ($190; $114); Chinese Laundry ($160); Sam Edelman ($225); Vince Camuto ($230); Schutz ($238)
5. RETRO SKIWEAR
Waist-cinching belts, neon color blocking and high-collared puffers aren’t just for ‘80s theme parties anymore. Yup, throwback ski gear is back for another round, both on and off the slopes. Be sure to pair your belted puff with more modern separates—like straight-leg snow pants over super-slim styles or wide-leg jeans instead of stirrup leggings—to avoid looking like you’re wearing a costume.
Shop the trend: J.Crew ($198; $80); Levi’s ($150; $99); BDG ($119); Free People ($368); Bobo Choses ($390); Free People ($648)
6. SWEATER DRESSES
Sweater dresses will forever be one of our absolute favorite ways to combine comfort and style, but they’re having a particular flash of popularity as we navigate between venturing out into the world again while still spending a lot of time at home. This time around, looser, flowier silhouettes are the most-wanted over curve-hugging styles. The trick to making them look chic instead of dowdy? Add a thin belt at the waist and keep your accessories sleek and minimal.
Shop the trend: ASOS Design ($55); Charles Henry ($89); Daily Practice by Anthropologie ($140); J.Crew ($148); Theory ($495; $199); Halston ($545)
7. FEATHERS, SHEARLING AND OTHER TEXTURES
This winter is less about prints and patterns and more about adding depth to your look with textures. Feathers, shearling, embellishments and chunky knitting are all fun options, but so are croc embossed scales or raised woodgrain effects. This is a particularly great trend for those who prefer neutral hues or monochrome dressing as a way to spice things up without going too far outside your wheelhouse.
