A SEASON OF STATEMENTS

Words by Kirsten Jacobs | Images: Supplied

Winter - a polarising season. Synonymous with cold and dreariness, winter often encourages many to abandon fashion in favour of comfort and warmth. However, it doesn’t have to be an either/or scenario. Choose both sides and stand out from the crowd in winter looks that are impossible to ignore.

This season, we’re motioned towards low-effort pieces with high impact. Proportions become more exaggerated, style gets a collegiate spin, and we play with contrasting textures. Here’s how to pull off the key statement trends of the season.

Hypertexture continues to be the leading trend for winter ‘23. From faux fur and shaggy coats to shearling trims and brushed knits, cosy and high-tactility materials add to the season's need for elevated comfort. You can translate this trend into your existing wardrobe by pairing items of contrasting fabrics together. Consider soft, chunky knitted tops with edgy faux leather trousers, or a mesh mini with an oversized faux fur coat. Alternatively, you can seek out singular items made with contrasting fabrics, like fur-trimmed leather coats or shearling-lapelled denim jackets.

Bigger and better is the mandate for winter 2023. Volume is key - think oversized coats, billowing knits, puffed-up puffers, and parachute cargo pants. Add an extra element of style by pairing different proportions together for a sleeker, considered finish. Style the trending trousers of the moment - parachute cargos - with a fitted mesh top to balance out the volume of your bottom layer. Other ways to play with proportions include layering a faux fur coat over a figure-hugging dress or styling a regular-fit long sleeve top and jacket with baggy jeans.

The collegiate look is back and better than ever. Reminiscent of the early 2000s, varsity-inspired designs have been spotted on the runways of designers like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Tory Burch. Key styles in this trend include the varsity-style or baseball jacket, pleated skirts, rugby polo shirts and cable knits. Argyle, plaid and striped prints take the aesthetic even further. Give the collegiate prepster trend a modern touch by pairing jock-approved baseball jackets with a fitted dress or rugby shirt and relaxed-fit trousers, or a cable-knit sweater layered over a fitted button-up.