I'm Anti-Trend, But These New-Season Items Work With My Winter Capsule Wardrobe
As 2024 (dare I say it) almost draws to a close, I've entered the reflection phase (albeit a bit more prematurely but I can't help myself when Christmas is on the horizon!) One thing is for certain this season, I'm inspired. You may have deduced that winter isn't typically my favourite season, but since moving to Paris, I've witnessed winter style through a fresh lens when it was previously a dreaded season for fashion.
With that said, this year I'm exploring the opportunity to experiment. As someone who observes trends meticulously and ponders extensively (truly, sometimes for a year but more on that later) about worthwhile pieces to invest in, I pay attention to the small details. This winter's trends have not disappointed on that front. To my delight, subtlety has been embraced by aspirational designers and followed onto the high street. The whipstich is back gracing coats, as are scarf features and colour pallets are rich and classic. Continue reading for the pieces I've saved on my wish list this month, these are pieces I'd wear forevermore.
Shop My Wish List for November:
Shop Outerwear:
The scarf jacket is the ultimate anti-trend piece. Spearheaded by Totême last year, it's proven itself to be a trend-defying piece, as it's still a highly coveted (not to mention functional) style a year on. Last year, scarf coat offerings were few and far between but this winter there are many iterations including Strathberry's, coming in at much less than the designer price point. This piece comprises 100% wool which trumps Totême fabrication!
This is perhaps one of my favourite coats thats ever graced the high street (huge statement, I know). After being on the hunt for a mid-priced wool rich and polyester free coat last winter, I stumbled across the camel version of this exact coat. It's a clean silhouette sans front facing pockets, which lends it a streamlined and polished look. This year COS have released this grey hue and a black version. Size down for a true to fit shape as it features drop shoulders and a generous drape.
The bouclé texture offers something unique as most outerwear features a flat profile.
A transeasonal coat you'll call on every single winter. Featuring the tassel hem we've all grown to love, making this piece significantly more jolly.
Shop Footwear:
I have very specific requirements for boots this year. Knee-high, taught and heeled (though comfortable for everyday wear) this pair by Clarks fits the bill. I have it on good authority that they're also extremely comfortable.
This season animal print is a dominant trend and some brands are nailing the brief with refined shapes and a far less garish motifs than what you may expect. In fact, it's quite the opposite.
You may be thinking, but it's winter, Avalon, but hear me out! Ancient Greek Sandal's iteration of the mesh shoe is far too good to miss. You can also style it as an indoor shoe!
Shop Dresses:
You may recognise this tunic from one of last year's edits which demonstrates the level of consideration I employ before buying new. I waited a year and the gap in my wardrobe still remains, therefore, I'm welcoming it into the fold.
John Lewis X Awake Mode has garnered the attention of many and it comes just in time for Christmas.
This colour, lightweight knit and length is in keeping with my personal style.
Shop Skirts:
M&S is no longer an underrated retailer as over the last few years its served us with some of the most stunning pieces on the high street.
Every winter leather skirts arise and the high street surprises us with quality gems
Grey skirting is a trend I'm welcoming into my arsenal and Reformation's Alyssa skirt is top of my wish list. Pair it with knee-high boots and a refined knit for a complete uniform.
Shop Accessories:
I'm anticipating apres ski ahead of my ski holiday next year (can you tell it's my first time) and bookmarking pieces like above, which are practical and stylish in equal measure.
Dear Frances' foray into accessories is every bit as directional as you'd expect. It comprises mini shearling totes, suede shoulder bags and woven leather iterations.
Of all jewellery pieces, I wear necklaces the least yet I was instantly drawn to this dainty and colourful style, courtesy of Laura Vann. The multicoloured stones on a barely there link chain feels like a subtle nod to my adolescence (albeit more refined).
Gold nuggets are my earrings of choice year-round and I particularly champion them in the winter to juxtapose thick outer layers.
Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities. She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist. Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne. She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.
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