what’s hot this winter?

Winter gets a reputation for being the season where everyone gives up and throws on the nearest coat. But honestly, it might be one of the most underrated times to look chic. When the weather drops, most people slip into full survival mode, piling on layers just to stay warm, without thinking much about shape, balance, or intention.

Summer gets all the credit for color, texture, skin, and fun dressing, but winter has its own kind of sexy if you know how to work with it. It is less about showing everything and more about showing style. The right layers, the right materials, and the right silhouettes are what make a winter outfit feel elevated. This season is about intention, not excess.

So how do you stay warm and still look like your coolest self? This winter, fashion is shifting away from oversized chaos and into something more refined. Think earthy, chic neutrals with a little edge. Clean silhouettes, rich textures, and pieces that feel lived in but styled on purpose.

Over the past few years, especially during colder seasons, oversized and baggy silhouettes have dominated jackets, jeans, and tops. While a chunky coat or wide leg jean is not disappearing overnight, there is a noticeable shift happening. Straight leg denim tucked into boots or a slim bootcut paired with a loafer or flat is showing up far more than it has in recent years. The focus is slowly moving back toward balance and proportion.

This shift is not just about denim. The oversized leather bomber has had its moment, but this winter it feels better swapped for something more tailored. A fitted leather or suede coat instantly looks cleaner and more intentional. The same idea applies to knits. Instead of bulky sweaters swallowing your frame, tighter cashmere knits and sleek turtlenecks are taking over, creating shape while still feeling cozy.

lil inspo from the pinterest ladies :)

Outerwear continues to be a focal point. The trench coat takeover is still going strong, especially after the buttoned up trench look took over social media. Designers have started playing with cropped lengths, sharper shoulders, and reworked silhouettes. Whether classic or structured, the trench remains a staple because it fits perfectly into this refined, neutral direction.

The office vest has also been everywhere over the past few years, layered or worn on its own. This winter, that trend is softening. Instead of stiff, buttoned up vests, we are seeing more blazer inspired silhouettes in shirt form. The vibe is the same, but the execution feels more feminine and less rigid.

Three quarter sleeves are quietly making a comeback as well. They work seamlessly with the move toward fitted, intentional shapes. When paired with a boatneck neckline, the result feels polished, feminine, and slightly sexy without feeling too forced.

Comfort still matters, but it is evolving. The matching sweat set had its moment and honestly, it did its job. It kept us comfortable, coordinated, and made getting dressed easy. This winter, comfort is getting a more elevated update.

One of the easiest ways to look styled while still feeling like you are in pajamas is silk pants. They are not the warmest option on their own, but layered over tights or a thin legging, they work surprisingly well. The result feels effortless and relaxed without crossing into sloppy.

Instead of defaulting to a monochromatic sweat set, think monochromatic silk pants paired with a cozy same-colored knit. The ease stays the same, but the intention completely changes. It still feels comfortable, just more grown up, more polished, and far more fashion forward.

your shoe + comfort guide in one place

Shoes are what truly finish a look. Ballet flats have made one of the biggest comebacks in the past year, and it makes sense. They sit perfectly between comfort and polish. Swap out sneakers or house slippers for ballet flats and the exact same outfit instantly looks more put together.

They also pair well with the silhouettes we are seeing more of right now. As denim gets straighter and clothing fits closer to the body, chunky shoes can start to feel heavy. Ballet flats keep things clean and balanced, which is why they have quietly become an everyday staple. If you do want something chunkier, ankle boots are the way to go, especially styles with grommets or fringe for a subtle edge.

For those who like a little height, heels are firmly back in the conversation. The kitten heel has been trending for a few years now and it is not going anywhere because it is timeless. At the same time, this winter feels like the right moment to pull out those bigger, more dramatic pumps that have been hiding in the back of your closet. When the rest of your outfit is streamlined and neutral, a strong heel feels intentional and makes a statement without overwhelming the look.

Once the pieces are set, color becomes the defining factor. Brown is the neutral of 2025, and heading into 2026 we will continue seeing rich chocolate tones everywhere. It is slowly replacing black in a way that feels warmer, softer, and more wearable, especially during colder months.

Alongside brown, greys with cool blue undertones are beginning to emerge. Right now they are subtle, but by this time next year they will be just as prominent. These greys feel clean, slightly futuristic, and unexpected, especially when paired with warmer neutrals.

For bolder tones, olive is stepping in where burgundy has dominated. Burgundy is not disappearing, but olive is becoming the go to alternative for bags, shoes, and outerwear. It still feels rich and elevated, but with an earthier, more organic edge.

Texture is also playing a larger role this season. Leather has defined winter dressing for the past decade, but suede is clearly having its moment. It feels just as luxurious, yet softer and more grounded, fitting perfectly into this earthy chic direction. Looking ahead, velvet and mohair are set to make stronger appearances as well, adding depth and interest without relying on loud colors or prints.

Overall, winter is one of the best seasons to truly have fun with fashion. Layers, textures, and thoughtful styling create endless opportunities to express personal style. This season is about earthy neutrals, clean silhouettes, and subtle edge. If you need a little direction, this guide should help you stay not just current, but ahead of where winter fashion is heading.

Happy holidays and happy styling!!

-AG