I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely feeling the winter blues right now, and the dreary weather hardly helps. But with any new season comes a brand-new round of trends, and I’ll be taking this opportunity as a bit of styling escapism and reporting on the latest among them. As always, I’ve got you covered with everything from coat trends to boot trends, and this winter, the accessories are especially exciting. I’m delighted to introduce seven items that stand out right now, and don’t worry they’re functional too.
If you live in a colder climate (and II’m going to include the Great British weather on that list), you know that winter accessories are a category all of their own. During the rest of the year, our hats, scarves, and sunglasses are simply the stylish choices that enhance our outfits, but during the winter, they’re non-negotiables that can make or break a case of frostbite. The good news: The winter accessory trends on deck in 2023 are as cool as they are practical, with new items like arm warmers and old favourites like balaclavas continuing to take centre stage.
To discover the seven trendy accessories that are inundating our streets and feeds right now, just keep scrolling. I can’t escape these items—nor do I want to.
The power of social media is no joke. Once the chunky, oversized, blanket scarves from ACNE Studios began to appear in various outfit-styling and haul videos on TikTok, the internet snapped them up in no time. While the exact ones are an investment at £300, plenty of oversized and extra-long statement scarves have popped up in every colour, print, and price tag under the sun. Swooping yours effortlessly over one shoulder is the key to wearing this trend.
It’s quite literally impossible to be cold in a cosy, jumbo scarf like this.
An influencer and fashion editor favourite.
A classic neutral that will go with everything.
Dopamine dressing at it’s finest.
If there’s one trend I’m most excited about, it’s these soft and furry hats that have appeared in plenty of fall/winter 2022 collections, from Dolce & Gabbana to Gucci. Despite the high-fashion endorsement, it’s not a requirement to drop hundreds on a designer one—trust me. I’ve found so many cute and fun shearling and faux-fur hats for £100 or less.
Sure, it also comes in baby pink and mint green, but I love the cute sky blue.
Winter accessories don’t get more chic than this.
You might already know Jakke’s impeccable faux fur coats, but did you know there’s slouchy beanies too? You’re welcome.
I hate to say it, but we told you so. Who What Wear reported on the uptick in sporty cycling-inspired sunglasses nearly a year ago, and even though 2023 has only just begun, they’re still making their mark. Say what you will about the divisive shades, but designers such as Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga have been pioneering the look for a minute, and now, emerging labels such as Poppy Lissman and Raie are putting their stamp on it, too.
Everyone from Justin Bieber to Rita Ora are being snapped in Poppy Lissiman’s avant-garde designs, so consider this your sign to get ahead of the crowd.
When it comes to bags, shoes and sunglasses, Bottega can do no wrong.
Straight from the runway, to your wardrobe.
Berets had been suspiciously out of the fashion news cycle for a while up until now, so it makes sense that this winter marked their return onto our radars. Certainly, the quintessential Parisian toppers have never been “out,” but this winter, they’re reemerging in all manner of bright hues, bold prints, and quirky crochet textures.
Assemble Ganni girls! You’re about to spot this cute beret all over Copenhagen Fashion Week.
Just add a fluffy cardigan, straight leg jeans and ballet pumps for a nod to French girl styling.
It might be pricey, but consider this an investment you’ll wear for years to come.
Rumblings of the oversized bag’s return to style have been bubbling in the fashion world lately, and if the S/S ’23 runway is any indication, this year marks the noteworthy shift from small and structured bags to large and slouchy totes. Look for shoulder bags in rich textures like woven leather or faux fur.
Easily the coolest tote to be spotted with right now.
A bag big enough for all of your essentials, and the kitchen sink.
Jimmy Choo shoes are already iconic, but we really need to highlight their killer bag offerings too.
The phrase “gorgeous, gorgeous girls wear balaclavas; gorgeous, gorgeous girls avoid the drama” lives in my head rent-free, and that’s how I know I need to spend less time on TikTok. If you understand the reference, great. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, all you need to know is that knit balaclavas are spiking on social media right now. Fashion people may be onto something with this one.
COS’ bestselling print, now in an on-trend balaclava.
Honestly, this candy pink hood is too cute for words.
Fashionable and functional, and at under £15? I’ll take two.
Speaking of functional trends, I’ve noticed that arm warmers are having a moment right now, and I’m so into it. Practically speaking, they’re a tech-friendly alternative to gloves, and sartorially, they’re an easy way to layer and add a pop of colour and dimension to your winter ensembles.
Trust me, when cold spells hit, you won’t regret buying these.
The best way to keep your hands toasty (and still be able to text).
Take a walk on the wild side with a pop of punchy, leopard print.
