Winter Fashion Trends: What Can We Expect and Who’s Influencing Them?

Mya Melito, '29, incorporating new winter styles of a patterned scarf and chunky sweater into her look. Photo by Molly McCabe '29

As fall comes to an end and winter approaches, new fashion trends are making their way into the media, and people will soon be influenced to invest in new styles, including Marist students. What’s in and what’s out? And who is setting the tone for these new looks?

According to Who What Wear, one of the primary items that will make their way into the winter is a variety of coats. 

Although this seems inevitable, the combination of trench coats, blazers and bomber jackets provides diversity and fun. Although many are simple, their design can elevate an outfit, whether that be with the cut or style. Many looks showcase buttons, flowy sleeves and neutral colors to match a classy yet cozy vibe. 

One prominent element we have already seen this fall and will continue to see is faux fur, as it is a cozy piece with drama and texture. 

However, I think that the most popular coat of the season will be a leather jacket. The black and brown colors are versatile enough that they can be worn with many items. They are also a durable, timeless piece that can last through all seasons and years to come. 

Aside from outerwear, there are a few patterns that are already gaining traction as we move into the colder months. 

The first one is polka dot, as this is a print that is effortless chic and adds to a plain outfit. Whether this be seen in shirts or skirts, it seems like it will become a staple in many people’s wardrobes this winter and could become one of the next neutral prints. 

Considering the amount of variety that comes along with polka dots, specifically with the colors that they can be made/coordinated with, I see this as a big trend moving forward. 

Along with polka dots comes animal print, which seems to be making a comeback this season. As 2026 approaches, Elle reports that snake, zebra, cow and leopard are all popular designs that can be reflected in tops, coats, bags, shoes and more. 

The boldness of these prints, combined with the basic colors, allows for these items to act as a statement piece that can easily elevate a bland winter outfit. 

Fashion merchandising student Jackie Barry ‘29 had similar thoughts: “Trench coats and faux fur coats are coming back.”

Additionally, tall boots, scarves and lots of layering could also be in our future. Her passion for fashion stemmed from her love of crafting outfits and the compliments she received for her style. 

“Big fleece coats, boots, and legwarmers are in and real fur and fast fashion sweaters are out because they can be controversial,” said Barry, as her favorite winter look is a big sweater with a mini skirt, tights/legwarmers and boots. 

Another fashion merchandising student, Mya Melito ‘29, thinks we can expect to see a lot of brown leather, striped patterns and classic winter colors such as maroon and navy.

A fashion trend that Melito looks forward to seeing is mock necks and turtle necks. “They are not only cute, but they help to keep you warm.” 

Aside from mock necks, Melito also sees earmuffs and all winter accessories being a big thing for the season. This has certainly been circulating in the fashion world, as scarves will be a big addition, considering that they are comforting and come in a variety of designs and colors. 

As for those who will be influencing the looks this season, Barry thinks we can see popular TikTok star and online content creator Demetra Dias providing outfit inspiration to college-aged students. Additionally, Melito thinks that the outfits of social media personality Emma Chamberlain will also be making their way into the wardrobes of many.