Fashion has always been used to express self-identity. Throughout the year, styles adapt to fit the changing temperatures and climate. Since the worst of the winter cold is approaching, clothing trends, old and new, will arise to fit the chilling temperatures.
An absolute necessity for everyone during winter is a good coat or jacket! Coats and jackets come in so many different styles and complement various outfits and personalities. A style that’s been gaining popularity for a while is the puffer jacket. People often dress it up with a nice pair of jeans and some accessories, but they can also wear it with sweatpants out on errands. Another popular style of coat is the wool coat. Wool coats, especially knee-length ones, go great with business casual and more formal outfits. They come in a variety of colors, but most often, brown, black, or grey. If you visit New York City during the winter-time, expect to see at least one person out in a wool coat! Among many types of coats and jackets, more popular styles include leather jackets, pea coats, and parkas.
A timeless trend seems to be all things fur! People are wearing items such as fur hats, coats, cuffs, scarves, and boots to elevate their outfits. Its versatility and warming properties make it the perfect winter material. Historically, fur has been sourced from various species of animals. However, this practice has become increasingly controversial due to opposition from animal rights advocacy groups and individuals. According to Forbes, many well-known, high-fashion brands, such as Chanel, Gucci, and Burberry, have adopted a fur-free style, opting to incorporate faux furs into their pieces instead. Other fur-free brands include Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and Stella McCartney. However, brands such as Dior, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, and Marc Jacobs continue to use real fur in their clothing. These contrasts lead to much discourse about ethical sourcing of fur and similar topics in the fashion community, with arguments on both sides.
Practicality is also something to keep in mind during the winter months! People who value warmth but also want to keep wearing their beloved mini-dresses and skirts should be on the lookout for thermal tights. Many companies are making fleece-lined tights that are very hard to distinguish from regular tights, making them both practical and chic. Additionally, investing in a good scarf, hat, or pair of gloves is never a mistake. It is important to maintain a sense of personal style during winter, but it is just as important to stay warm!