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.
Call it the "quiet-luxury effect", but elevated staples are key this season.
There's a plethora of trends to explore this winter, from the bold to the more understated. For those looking to mix up their usual go-tos with statement pieces, you're in luck—metallics, sensually sheer styles and shocks of red are all in this season. 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 come back as certified runway favourites; a great counter-balance to the more extravagant looks. Elevated basics that embrace the "quiet-luxury" aesthetic and timeless shoe styles like knee-high boots and loafers are just some of the pieces that are popping up more and more on my Instagram feed.
Chrissy Rutherford shows us all how to pull off modern metallics.
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. You're welcome!
1. ELEVATED ESSENTIALS
Style Notes: Minimalists, rejoice—understated, effortlessly chic pieces are trending this season, and the high street has definitely caught onto the trend.
Shop the Trend:
It all starts with a white shirt, and this crisp poplin boyfriend style is a classic.
I've always said Marks & Spencer has the best cashmere on the high street, and this season's line-up doesn't disappoint.
I already own this co-ord and the fit is exceptional.
Shop the matching top for £50.
Black tailored trousers are a wardrobe staple.
2. RED
Style Notes: From burgundy to tomato, red was the colour that dominated the A/W 23 runways. Even for the most colour-averse, there's a stylish way to incorporate the bold tone into your winter wardrobe.
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How sleek would this look styled with a black blazer and heels?!
This will brighten up the greyest winter days.
For those who like a bit of volume.
Red knitwear is having a moment and this cardigan is top of our list.
3. BUTTERMILK YELLOW
Style Notes: On the softer end of the trending colour spectrum is buttermilk yellow—pale, cosy and a welcome sunny tone in the midst of the winter months.
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I love the neckline on this cable-knit jumper.
I'd style this with a leather blazer.
This looks so chic paired with black pieces.
This would look great with knee-high boots.
4. METALLICS
Style Notes: It's time to step into the spotlight. Fusing together rock'n'roll and Y2K references, metallics are well and truly back. Feeling bold? Try styling yours with black knitwear and knee-high boots for metallics by day.
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Wearable liquid gold.
Rabanne sequins create such a cool effect.
Wear with jeans, skirts, tailored trousers, dresses—kitten heels do it all.
Statement shimmer.
This playsuit is destined for the dance floor.
5. WINTER FLORALS
Style Notes: Turns out, florals aren't just for spring. Dark, romantic and vintage-inspired is the new-season way to bring garlands into your winter wardrobe.
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I'd style this with knee-high black boots and a cosy long coat.
Style with black leather trousers for a slick evening look.
This limited-edition skirt looks like a designer piece.
Impossibly elegant.
I love the idea of wearing this printed top as an alternative eveningwear look.
6. SHEER
Style Notes: Camille Charriere is the queen of sheer. Take a page out of her fashion book and embrace the unapologetic sensuality of sheer styles.
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This is such an elegant take on the sheer trend.
Miu Miu had every influencer proudly wearing underwear as outerwear—this sheer skirt is a great way to lean into the trend.
This gets bonus points for ticking off the metallic trend too.
A subtly sheer top that's perfect for a night out.
Layer with tailored trousers for a slinky evening look.
I'm obsessed with this dress, which is another subtle way to nod to the trend.
7. WIDE-LEG JEANS
Style Notes: It's official: Wide-leg is the jeans style of the season. Pair with a white T-shirt and jacket, a chunky knit or an oversized button-down shirt.
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The deep-blue wash gives these organic cotton jeans a vintage feel.
I love the washed black finish.
I'm a big fan of white jeans in winter.
Ideal for those who like a cropped cut.
A super-slouchy, '90s-inspired style.
8. KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
Style Notes: This season, the taller the boot, the better. Wear knee-high boots with mini skirts, leggings, jeans, dresses... the possibilities are endless.
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A sharp pair of boots you'll turn to for years to come.
The croc effect will add a touch of texture to a simple look.
Cowboy boots will always be in style, and these are a classic, versatile version.
I love the '60s feel of these tall, white boots.
Embrace the preppiness of riding boots.
9. BOWS
Style Notes: Take it from us (and the Queen of Bows, Alexandra Carello), this pretty micro trend is about to be major. Keep an eye out this season and you'll spot bows everywhere from handbags to hair, and in our humble opinion, the bigger the bow, the better.
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This head-turning hair accessory would work equally well for day and night.
The perfect Christmas party outfit.
Simple, understated, classic.
This exudes Parisian charm.
Dressy mules for an amazing price.
Act fast, this is nearly out of stock.
Next Up, 8 Easy Ways Fashion People Will Wear Midi Skirts This Season
