The winter months can seem like the double-edged sword of fashion.
First, the biting cold easily inspires an “anything that can be layered, will be layered” attitude that would make the giddy mom from “A Christmas Story” jealous. On the other hand, this time of year is the grand slam of holidays through New Years Eve, and you can only wear so many ugly sweaters ironically before people start to wonder if that’s all you own for a winter wardrobe.
The good news is there are plenty of wearable winter trends that will help you weather the dropping temperature or at least give you the confidence to weather it until you get inside. Here are the top winter 2017 trends to give yourself or someone you care about for the months to come.
Berets
There’s no avoiding it — this is the hat to go for if you want to put that perfect amount of je ne sais quoi into your outfit. From the Dior runway to the top of Rihanna’s head, the beret’s classy-yet-casual look makes it the accessory of the season. For the look that keeps you warm while looking très cool, you can try the classic beret from Top Shop or the Barneys New York pom-pom embellished wool beret.
Faux Fur
Few things are as luxurious and cozy as fur. The best part is that in 2017, so many designers have found ways to get the look with no one and nothing being hurt in the process — everybody wins. This winter, the collections of fashion houses like Miu Miu and overnight it-brand Shrimps set the standard for bright, bold faux-fur looks that were quickly picked up by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Alexa Chung. For cruelty-free, more-is-more glamour, try the leopard print coat from Anthropologie or the River Island faux shearling trucker jacket.
Accent Socks and Tights
Get ready to not feel an ounce of guilt for giving the gift of socks or tights this holiday season. This winter, these formerly homely outfit add-ons have ascended to become truly stunning statement pieces. Experimental patterns, colors and fabrics were eye-catching elements in the collections of Mulberry and Fendi that showed off the fun, playful twist of elevated hosiery. It’s like having a stylish secret between you and your ankles, so try it with rhinestone cluster tights or anything from the Happy Socks Hysteria collection.
Gold Jewelry
It may not actually warm you up, but it certainly makes you look glowy: A return to tried-and-true gold jewelry is sweeping winter fashion from Balenciaga to Marc Jacobs, in addition to the huge popularity boost brought on by adored Instagram brands like Sophie Buhai. The key to wearing gold jewelry right now? Don’t be afraid to forgo variety for big pieces, layered pieces, or both. We are talking about one of the most universally recognized symbols of opulence, after all. To take your first baby steps into your golden years, try sphere earrings by Rebecca Minkoff or gold-plated choker by Kenneth Jay Lane.
Bucket Bags
The days of micro-clutches that can only hold your license and approximately three of your most cherished memories are over. Just in time for the holidays, spacious bucket bags are making their way down the runways of Jason Wu, Creatures of Comfort and Nina Ricci. This winter is about making bold choices, so don’t be afraid to go for bright colors, graphic designs and statement-making handles. Try this trend with a Simon Miller bonsai bucket bag or a Monki vinyl bucket bag in red patent.
Gabriella Lacombe is a freelance journalist, stylist and fashion blogger at Wunderfiend.com dedicated to finding new perspectives in the world of style.
