8 Fashion Trends to Try This Winter, According to the Experts

The onset of cooler weather should not be synonymous with a fashion hiatus, but that doesn’t mean you have to forego comfort. Here, four Scouted experts share their favorite fall to winter trends that every woman should be stocking their closets with. The best news: These pieces double down on style while maintaining a chic, cozy vibe. To find a scouted women’s clothing shop near you, browse The Scout Guide Directory.

Opt for an oversized knit. Lovers of comfort—rejoice! According to Molly Dance Murphy, director of marketing and the associate buyer at Lé Weekend in Mountain Brook, Alabama, relaxed dressing is in this season. “We are loving the look of an oversized sweater right now,” she says. “Not everything has to be so buttoned up!” She recommends the fan favorite Jenni Kayne Cocoon Cardigan paired with just about anything. “Because who doesn’t love a cashmere hug?”

Relish in the return of the flat. The ever versatile flat is back. Whether you opt to wear this style in the form of a ballet slipper style or the uber-effortless mule, this elevated slipper-esque footwear is being shown in a multitude of colors and textures to fit every taste. Sarah Thomas, co-owner of The Holiday in Mobile, Alabama, advises pairing them with tailored slacks, maxi skirts, and wide leg denim to create a chic, easy look that’s perfect for transitional weather.

Add a dose of elegance with velvet. The experts agree that velvet pieces will reign supreme when it comes to dressing for the holidays. “Velvet blazers, dresses, and long dusters in bright and bold jewel tones are the perfect way to make a statement,” Laura Horwath, founder and CEO of Ferne Boutique in Ann Arbor and Bay City, Michigan, says. She also suggests mixing velvet pieces with pattern and texture to create a unique and polished ensemble.

Get funky with flowers. Floral is no longer just a hallmark of warm-weather fashion, but a way to add a feminine touch to your outfit no matter the season. Chappell Brady, owner of Hemline in Huntsville and Mobile, Alabama, prefers a bold approach to floral, like this Joviality Top by Elliatt, that could easily stun at a holiday soiree.

Try a new shape of denim. “The horseshoe style jean has taken this season by storm,” Murphy reports. “They are the perfect piece to update the tops and sweaters you’ve had in your closet for years.” She admits that while this denim silhouette may seem like a gamble, all of her clients that have tried out this funky yet flattering style are now obsessed with them.

Take a moment for movement. Imagine taking a spin in this little number by Amanda Uprichard at your next holiday party? Brady is a big proponent of tassels and fringe adorning your clothing as a way to add a dose of energy to your wardrobe.

Go to the maxi. While we love the mini skirt trend as much as the next fashionista, cooler weather is begging for a bit more coverage and Thomas confirms that an ankle-skimming maxi style is the perfect antidote. “These skirts can be worn in numerous ways and easily transition from day to night,” she explains. If you want to give this style a try, Thomas suggests a high waisted silhouette that can be cinched with a belt or layered with a sweater and jacket.

Lean into leather. Leather continues to make an appearance each season, and winter will be no exception. The rich burgundy, green, and browns that were perfect for fall can easily be worn into the coldest of months when paired with boots, knits and coats. For anyone looking to dip their toes into this cool-gal trend, Horwath suggests going with a classic little black dress, that offers just the right amount of edginess. Eager to be a little more animal friendly? There are plenty of vegan options out there that look like the real deal. 

Lé Weekend appears in The Scout Guide Birmingham. The Holiday appears in The Scout Guide Mobile Bay. Ferne Boutique appears in The Scout Guide Ann Arbor. Hemline appears in The Scout Guide Huntsville.