A Guide to Winter Fashion: Trends We Expect to Take Over in 2026
We’re not ready for the cold air, below-freezing temperatures, and snowy days, but the one thing that always gets us through the winter months is fun fashion. While it can be easy to throw on the same hoodie and sweatpants on a daily basis, winter is actually a great time to experiment with your style. Get out of the cold-weather funk with new trends, unique layering, and statement pieces. To help you prepare for the season-ahead, we’ve rounded up the top fashion trends we expect to see in winter 2026.
High-neck Jackets
Ditch your puffer this winter and opt for a high-neck wool coat instead. It’s chic and elevated, and it provides extra warmth when buttoned all the way to the top. For freezing cold temperatures, we recommend a super-long trench coat; while for more mild weather, you can stick with a cropped version. Take it to the next level with a built-in scarf, another popular style for this winter. Style it over a knit sweater with pleated trousers and loafers or boots for a winter uniform you can wear on repeat.
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2. Plaid
Plaid is undoubtedly a staple print, and this upcoming season we’ll be seeing it styled as a statement and peeking out of layers. Think plaid maxi skirts over sheer tights and pants, full plaid jackets and shoes, and plaid overshirts layered underneath big trench coats and cozy accessories. If you’re in a slump with your winter outfits, try grabbing an old plaid flannel from your closet and giving it a new life!
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3. Belted Cardigans
The coziest winter addition is a belted cardigan. These knits cinch the waist for a flattering look and are longer and thicker than your typical cropped cardigan. They also mimic the coziness of a robe, while still being practical and appropriate for daily wear. Style them with pleated trousers and loafers for a repeatable day-to-night cold-weather outfit, or wear them over a white tee with jeans and ballet flats for effortless ease.
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4. Fur Boots
If you love the messy girl aesthetic, you’re going to love this one. Big fur boots are making a comeback, and it’s no surprise that these Y2K-inspired shoes are back considering the rise in everything-fur, from coats, to hats, to even bags. If you want to embrace this trend, we recommend sticking to faux fur, of course, and pairing it with minimalist, monochrome pieces to balance out the outfit.
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5. Oversized Sunglasses
Shield yourself from the strong winds this winter with big frames! Oversized sunglasses with thick frames are expected to be trending, especially in aviator silhouettes. Embrace the shielded look and ditch your small oval frames for a super large pair. For the full effect, style them with a scarf around your neck, a big trench coat, and sleek leather gloves.
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6. Animal Print
Animal prints aren’t going anywhere. What started as the leopard print resurgence has led to the rise in popularity of zebra, snakeskin, dalmatian, and cowhide print. Now in bigger and bolder patterns, we’re expecting to see them on hats, scarves, shoes, bags, and big coats for winter. When you’re in the mood to spice up your typical winter fit, add on an animal print piece and the outfit will instantly be more fun!
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7. Culottes
Super long, baggy shorts have been trending the past few months, but don’t worry — they don’t need to get stored away in the winter! Wear your culottes over tights and with high boots for an edgy winter look. If you love a minimalist look, go for a pair of tailored culottes in a neutral color; and if you prefer to add a statement to your outfits, opt for a pair in a fun pattern.
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