Winter fashion serves two purposes: style and warmth. As the temperature drops, new trends will emerge to merge practicality with new creative inspiration.
Whether NIU students are wearing them or they only show up on your TikTok “For You” page, here are some predictions for winter 2024 fashion trends.
COLORFUL TIGHTS
Both fun and practical, tights allow you to wear skirts or dresses without exposing your legs to the elements. Fleece-lined tights can be a great way to add extra warmth. For a pop of color, red tights, blue tights or any pattern you can dream of can be the perfect accessory to add something new to your outfits.
In past years, leg warmers have been all the rage, but after some time in the spotlight, it’s time to switch it up. Colorful tights have the same warmth and added point of interest to many outfits.
SEQUINS
Last winter during the holiday season bows adorned everything. While I myself love the bow trend as well as its versatility – you can tie bows in your hair, onto any item of clothing, buy bow print or bow jewelry – it’s been popular for long enough and it’s a bit overdone. Sequins can be the new fabric to bring that fun holiday spirit.
A sequin skirt or top can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. If you’re headed to a holiday party, a sequin dress, no matter the color, is sure to be fun, classy and match the festive atmosphere.
FUR COATS
With the recent rise in animal print popularity, particularly leopard, it only makes sense to carry on this furry theme. In addition, last winter on TikTok the furry Russian Ushanka hat was all the rage. These themes are reflected in a bulky jacket sure to keep you warm in the coming months.
A fur coat, or rather faux-fur, can elevate any outfit with added texture and interest. While it is on the fancy side, a fur coat could always be dressed down with streetwear style. You could even style it in a grunge manner or partake in the recent revival of the indie-sleaze aesthetic.
FUR BOOTS
In the same vein, I think fur boots will have a spike in popularity this winter. Ugg boots are the fall staple, and this is just an upgraded version of the chunky boot. Unique shoes are always trending. While tabis didn’t hit the DeKalb scene, the hoove-esq designer footwear made its mark in recent years.
A fur boot mixes the need for unique, unconventional footwear and a practical warm shoe. While it may not be weatherproof, it would certainly provide more coverage and insulation than a sneaker.
BARN JACKETS
Predicted by both Glamour magazine and Marie Claire magazine to trend this winter, barn jackets offer a more casual outerwear option. This jacket can feature a variety of colors including khaki, brown or navy. The relaxed fit is perfect for wearing day-to-day over top casual, easy-going outfits.
Country chic seems to always be in style, and barn jackets are perfect for that aesthetic. It can be paired with jeans or plaid to amplify this vibe.
