The Winter Trends to Know and Shop for 2020-2021

Leathers, velvet, and quilting take the lead.

streetstyle trends
(Image credit: getty image)

In years past, winter wear has been straightforward, emphasizing either comfort and warmth or glittery party attire. But norms are rapidly being redefined, and fashion must also continue to adapt to a new way of being. The trends of 2020-2021 were introduced last February, but it's now up to fashion admirers to interpret how they'll work these styles into their day-to-day routine. From leather to quilting to flashes of velvet, the key winter pieces are not never-been-seen, but novel circumstances mean the trends will be worn differently than in years prior. Ahead, six winter trends to consider for the new year.


That '70s Show

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

One of fashion's most emulated decades, winter will continue to mirror the era's burnt oranges and olive-tone hues, while mastering prints like argyle and paisley. Whether you choose to don full corduroy suiting à la Gabriela Hearst or prefer to subtly pepper in pointy collars and flared slacks, paying homage to the time period will be easy to do.

Cold Weather Leathers

Designers from Versace to Ferragamo have made the workhorse fabric a no-brainer winter staple. Invest in a buttery leather shirt dress that you can layer over a turtleneck for the coldest of days, or go for a slightly slouchy pant style that will breathe new life into any one of your oversized sweaters.

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Jeremy Moeller)

Puffer Piece

Don't depend on your outwear solely for warmth. Take a cue from the runways of Prada and Dior to make a fashion-forward puffer jacket an integral part of your outfit—even if only for a corner store run. Look for details like deep-set side pockets, cinched waists, and non-traditional zipper placements that will help tackle sub-zero temps with style.

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

Conquer Quilting

The quilted trend—dispersed across jackets, skirts, and even shirting—will continue to excite craft-loving fashionistas, while pandering to all of our hibernating instincts. To avoid the risk of twinning with your bedroom duvet, play with quilted separates in neutral colors and tailored silhouettes.

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Archives)

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Vanni Bassetti)

Velvet Underground

Designers like Valentino and Chanel brought one of winter's most beloved fabrics to the forefront this season with long-sleeve, ankle grazing dresses and off-the-shoulder shifts. Inject romance into your look by pairing velvet separates with kitten heels or channel your rocker spirit while slipping into velvet wide-leg pants and combat boots.

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Claudio Lavenia)

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Kirstin Sinclair)

Better Than Bodycon

We'll always have an affinity for cozy sweaters, but designers have also made a convincing case for shape-framing dresses. Layer them under boyish blazers, or commit to wearing one on its one. To keep your shapely numbers work apropos, choose elevated fabrics and knee or calf-length styles.

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Melodie Jeng)

streetstyle trends

(Image credit: Melodie Jeng)
Sara Holzman
Style Director

Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, covering runway trends and tracking down the latest finds to buy and wear. When she’s not writing about fashion, she pens about the best places to jet-off to. Over her six years with Marie Claire, Sara has reported on the ever-evolving world of fashion— covering both established and emerging designers within the industry. Sara has held fashion positions at Lucky and SELF Magazine and was a regular contributor to Equinox’s Furthermore website, where she wrote across their style, wellness, and travel verticals. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and currently resides in Manhattan. Follow her along at @sarajonewyork.