Keeping up with the latest trends at all times can be quite exhausting, on top of not being a good idea at all for your wallet. Buying new items all the time and having to throw away your old ones in order to make room in your wardrobe for the items of your latest fashion spree is rather unsustainable as well, since a lot of water, dyes, and labor go into creating garments that are then discarded. Many of them are made from fabrics that are essentially plastic as well, meaning that they won’t disintegrate easily, but will turn into microplastics instead.
Becoming a more conscious shopper and only getting the things that you need or are certain you’re going to wear can be a true game-changer. Shopping secondhand and looking into your closet before getting something new is also so important, since data shows that a sizable percentage of the clothing people own remains unworn or is thrown away after only a couple of wears. If you actually need to renew your wardrobe for the winter, here are a few of the pieces you can bet on, as well as a few of the styles you can expect to see everywhere next spring.
Cottagecore, Cosy English style
The lived-in, cottagecore English woman aesthetic isn’t new, as it is inspired by 2000s rom-com heroines such as Renée Zellweger’s Bridget Jones or Kate Winslet’s Iris Simpkins in the 2006 classic “The Holiday”. The trend lies dormant during the summer months, then returns in full force during the colder season (and has been doing so for the last three years). It is essentially a thrown-together look that mixes practicality with whimsy. This year, though, it is also a bit more polished and elegant. If you like layers, gigantic scarves, and a bit of messiness, this is definitely the trend for you.
It’s true that few things can feel cozy as wrapping yourself in a cardigan after a warm bath (use an African net sponge that will be gentle with your skin), but to make it a bit more elevated, you can add a string of pearls. While this style is a definitive departure from the quiet luxury trend, it does hold some accents of understated elegance in 2025. Skirt suits made of tweed, knitwear, and hair scarves, such as those made out of Ankara fabric, can all be integrated in this look.
Gorpcore
Just like the frazzled English woman trend, gorpcore probably also seemed like something that would lose its appeal fairly quickly. However, it remains the favorite of a highly dedicated community that values comfort and functionality first and foremost. Gore-Tex, fleece, puffer jackets, and sneakers that you could hike in remain popular as streetwear, and although wearing weather-resistant clothing in the city might seem like too much for some, those who love the style swear by it.
You might as well if you’re not the type to love bundling up and wearing very bulky clothes, as technical fabrics allow you to keep warm without feeling like you’re wearing several blankets.
Softer structures
If the stiffness and reliability of gorpcore aren’t what you’re looking for and you’d rather feel coddled this winter, you can definitely count on plush knitwear. But it’s not just the clothing. Accessories have become slouchy and huggable as well, with bags being the most obvious example. It’s not exactly boho, but it’s not the same style as the sleek, structured bags from the previous years either. Suede will be one of the most popular fabrics, as it feels relaxed and elegant at the same time. Such a bag looks best when carried under your arm, but folded-top styles will definitely be popular as well.
The classic totes and shoulder bags are getting a makeover to fit this style better as well. The good news is that the slouchy soft bag looks and feels great regardless of the colors or size, so that no matter what kind of bag you like to wear, there’s something for you out there. Pair yours with faux fur or shearling for a luxurious look that doesn’t feel overly careful.
Brown
When it comes to stereotypes and ideas people have about colors, brown often gets an undeservedly negative reputation. Over the last few years, black and camel were more popular, but the trends have shifted to brown this season. From deep mahogany shades to rich chocolate mousse hues, brown is the perfect cozy choice for the cold season. You can either wear it from head to toe (in the same shade or matching ones), or as part of different accents. For instance, a brown coat will fit right in with any outfit. A pair of pleather trousers, a knitted turtleneck, and a pair of elegant shoes (either flats or heels) will look just as chic and sumptuous.
The upcoming spring
It’s still very early to think about spring, but that hasn’t stopped fashion lovers from thinking about what they’ll wear as the weather starts warming up. Fringes are predicted to become popular in 2026, a playful trend that isn’t as obvious for the season as florals. Interestingly, pirate styles are expected to become more popular, and you might already spot them this winter in the form of the buccaneer boots. If you follow the trends, then you know that this look was first popular ten to fifteen years ago, and before that in the 80s as part of the New Romantic trend (poet shirts, anyone?).
Expect to see ruffled blouses again in early 2026, as well as lace-up necklines and shoes. Preppy looks, like co-ord sets in check print, slingback pumps, and crepe de chine shirts, will be popular as well. Puff skirts, which first gained popularity a few years ago, are coming back as well, but with more variety this time, especially when it comes to length. Just as gorpcore is popular in winter, you can expect lighter sportswear in spring. There has been a craze surrounding football jerseys in 2025, and in spring 2026, it is expanding to include polo and rugby shirts.
Fashion trends are constantly changing and evolving, but following your own style and wearing pieces that you like is the most important thing. Drawing inspiration is always a good idea, but remember that your personal taste should always have the last word.
