Gone are the days when wearing the trends of the season means being dressed like everyone else. Thank the fashion godesses for personal style. Somewhere down the road of life, we women learn that being fashion forward doesn’t have to mean sacrificing what looks great on our unique shape and in our own personal style.
This season, there are a few definite winter fashion trends that you’ll see on magazine covers and in store windows. They’re the styles you’re likely to gravitate toward—but only if they work with your wardrobe, body type and taste.
Not sure if they mesh with your idea of style for you? Start a board on Pinterest of styles you resonate with to help you figure it out.
5 EASY-TO-WEAR FASHION FORWARD WINTER FASHION TRENDS
1. The Block Heels
Not since the running shoe was paired with dresses have we witnessed such pure joy over a shoe trend. Gotta love this year’s chunky block heel. It gives you the benefits that extra height provides (hello, long legs!) with the comfort of a supportive thick heel (bye bye, stilts!).
Insider Tip: Always be careful of proportions because body type is important: a more petite shape will be thrown off balance by a shoe that is too chunky while a curvier body type may not balance as well in a very pointy toe.
Pictured: Todd Suede Gomma boot, Calvin Klein Kid suede block heel, Ted Baker Lowrenna ankle boot
2. The Duster Coat
Pictured: Mackage Mai Wrap Coat, Missguided Long Duster Coat, Andrew Marc Wool Boucle Coat, Theory Armelle Cardigan Coat
3. The English Plaid
Plaid is one of the biggest patterns this season, and it’s no wonder. This is one of the quickest and easiest ways to add colour and texture to any outfit. Just pick up a scarf in the proper English pattern, a big blanket scarf, to be precise. That way, you have options. You can wear it long and straight with a wool coat or instead, wrap it tight around your neck to instantly update your tired old parka. (Want to see 25 different ways to tie your fave scarf? Click here to watch the video.)
Insider Tip: Our favourite way to wear a scarf: Forget the coat altogether and just drape your plaid scarf around your shoulders like a cape.
Pictured: Zara Plaid Scarf, Dynamite Blanket Scarf, Wilfred Fernie Triangle, ASOS Oversized Scarf
4. The Boho Fringe
We already know that the 70s influence is everywhere since it’s been around for a couple of seasons now, but if you aren’t ready to dust off your patchwork bell bottoms, no worries. You can still incorporate this look into yours by embracing the fringe trend instead.
Insider Tip: Need a little boho inspired update? Grab a bag with a fringe detail and go. No matter what your style is, it’s an easy way to add a bit of fun into your wardrobe without committing to a full on fringe leather jacket—unless, that is you want to.
Pictured: Milly Fringe Leather Tote, Sondra Roberts gold Fringe Edge Clutch, Rebecca Minkoff fringe mini Fiona, Sam Edelman Payton Fringe Tote
5. The Stylish Pants
Just as some of us are finally getting the courage to wear our skinnies without boots, the fashion world has added a slew of different shapes and styles of pants to the must-have list. Whether it’s culottes, bell bottoms, patterns or ankle-baring pleated trousers, there is a pant for everyone. Want to rock your pants? Allow them to be the star of the show. Pair them with a crisp white blouse or light fitted sweater to keep the focus on the down low.
Insider Tip: Beware of pleats. They can cause visual bulk and make you look larger than you are. If you go for pleats, make sure they lay flat.