Winter is just around the corner, and one way to look effortlessly stylish this season is to plan ahead. Admittedly, fashion may not always be at the forefront of our priorities this winter, as that often goes to keeping ourselves warm. As such, most people often opt for more comfy casual wear. However, everyday fashion can be stylish, too. Here are some streetwear trends that should help you look effortlessly chic.
The Comfy Kind of Chic
The idea that you have to sacrifice comfort just to be stylish is a dated one. These days, it is easy to integrate comfort into fashion, as evidenced by the latest clothing from fashion brand starters. The pandemic had us wearing comfy sweatshirts and sweatpants at home most of the time, and somehow, we just sort of carried on with that style even as we are now free to go outside. As such, sweats have now become the ultimate streetwear style this season.
This makes sense – sweatshirts and sweatpants are not only comfortable, they are versatile, too. Even models like Bella Hadid paired their sweatpants with heels, which goes to show that the more modern casual streetwear is one that merges style and comfort.
Stand out by choosing sweatpants that are tailored enough to look fashionable, but are comfy and cozy at the same time. For an elevated casual streetwear, you can pair your sweats with a blazer or a coat. Not only will that have you looking extra chic, but it also provides an extra layer of warmth.
Quality Outerwear
Speaking of blazers or coats, outerwear should be a staple of your wardrobe this season. Coats and jackets are essential items to keep you safe from the cold. Ideally, you should invest in outerwear that is made of natural materials such as wool or down as these will help you insulate your body heat. If you want something classic, you can opt for a timeless outerwear such as a trench coat. However, this season, there is an outerwear for just about any occasion.
For your more casual everyday look, bomber jackets are back in style, as featured in this year’s runway of major fashion houses such as Prada and Isabel Marant. For a more stand-out look, you can opt for a leopard print coat, as featured in this year’s Michael Kors and Giambattista Valli runways. A leopard print coat can be perfectly paired with a simple top and jeans to give it a more elevated casual look.
Novelty Knitwear
Knitwear is arguably a classic as it was popular even back in the 50s and 60s. However, knitwear back then used to be considered haute couture, often associated with clothes worn by the upper class. As such, in the past, knitwear was practically considered as the opposite of casual streetwear. Streetwear these days has transformed fashion into something more communal, merging couture with a more casual vibe.
This season, knitwear is one of those preppy kinds of clothing that is slowly becoming a streetwear staple, too. Layer your chunky knitted vest with a polo and a coat. For more standout looks, explore more novelty knitwear, such as those that come in brushed yarns and mohair. Knitwear that comes in abstract prints or those embellished in sequins are also making waves this season. Pair these with some simple jeans for casual streetwear that is sure to make a statement.
Color Blocking
Winter is usually associated with drab colors. However, this season, bright colors are a big thing in fashion. Thanks mostly to social media platforms, particularly TikTok, color blocking is all the rage these days. While color blocking is not necessarily new, this winter, this trend incorporates mixing bold colors that make your outfit truly pop.
There is no set rule for color blocking, and there are endless ways to incorporate colors into your winter streetwear. You can play it safe by using complementary colors. For instance, a blue bomber jacket over an orange turtleneck is a stand-out combination. On the other hand, you can also go bolder by wearing contradicting color combinations like green and blue or red and pink. For an even bolder look, you can even mix contrasting fabrics to stand out even more.
All Things Leather
Color is not the only thing that’s making a come-back this season. Another classic that is all the rage for streetwear this winter season is sustainably sourced faux leather. It made appearances on several runways, including Bottega Veneta, Loewe, and Hermes. However, leather can be challenging to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe. This is the reason why stylist Candice Lake suggests breaking up your outfit if you are not comfortable going for a full leather ensemble.
For example, a leather skirt will perfectly go with knitwear. Pair this with ankle boots for your day look, and then you can switch it up with heels for an evening look. If skirts are not your thing, you can also go for a looser cut of leather pants. Wear it as though you’re wearing an ordinary pair of denim trousers and style it accordingly. Not only is faux leather stylish and in season, it is also a warm material, which is perfect for winter.
Chunky Footwear
Choosing the right kind of footwear for your winter outfit can be challenging. You would need a pair that would keep your feet warm and dry in case of rainy weather. However, not any shoes will do as it should also complement your outfit. As such, this season, go for something functional yet stylish. Chunky sneakers can be a good option for you. Asics, Nike, and New Balance all have new releases that are not only comfortable to wear but are also sure to keep your feet well-insulated.
If you live in a rainy place, rain boots might just be perfect for your winter ensemble. Several rain boots these days are stylish enough to look like leather but are sure to keep your feet dry. Even loafers this season have chunky heels that keep the soles of your feet safe from the wet ground. This simply shows that shoes for your streetwear this season effectively merge functionality and style.
You don’t have to compromise style when you’re dressing up for the cold weather. Ample preparation should help you have the right wardrobe. Moreover, keeping these trends in mind will give you an idea about how to be effortlessly chic while also being comfy.
About the author;
This article was written by guest author sara zipf.