I love microtrends—those under-the-radar styles, silhouettes and details that don’t often make it onto the major trends reports yet capture the attention of a dedicated, niche community of fashion followers.
In fact, I think I enjoy them more than the big, unavoidable trends that dominate the stores each season. Embracing a microtrend feels like being in on a secret; it’s a way of showing you’re tuned in, noticing the nuances in the rapid fashion cycle. The downside is that microtrends are usually short-lived, so I'm picky about which ones I buy into. This means assessing their longevity beforehand, but also allowing myself to take part in a transient trend from time to time if it's something I'm really drawn to.
This season, seven microtrends in particular have repeatedly caught my eye to the point where I'm considering adding them to my wardrobe. There's the winter accessory championed by Y2K icons, the shoe-and-sock combo that's a dream for us cold-natured people and a few more for good measure.
Keep scrolling to see the best microtrends of winter 2024.
7 WINTER 2024 MICROTRENDS TO HAVE ON YOUR RADAR
1. Skinny Scarves
Style Notes: Blanket scarves might be the practical choice, but skinny scarves are a fun throwback to the noughties, and sometimes, nostalgia wins out. Plus, unlike their chunky counterparts, slim scarves bring interest without overwhelming your outfit.
Shop Skinny Scarves:
Mix things up by adding a contrasting texture to your look.
Damson Madder is always in tune with microtrends.
The pop of red your winter outfit needs.
2. Bold Shoulders
Style Notes: Power shoulders are the ultimate confidence booster, especially in blazer form. Skip the strappy slip dress this festive season and opt for a sculptural, padded-shoulder silhouette instead.
Shop Bold Shoulders:
Unbelievably classy.
This dress has built-in shoulder pads to give it that little something extra.
The shoulders aren't too exaggerated on this coat, which means it'll feel relevant for years.
3. Socks With Loafers
Style Notes: As a pragmatist, I always get excited when a functional trend sweeps through Instagram. I'm also sensitive to the cold, so the socks-and-loafers look is right up my street. This winter, fashion people are taking the combination a step further, pulling on their socks and loafers over tights for an extra layer of warmth and style.
Shop Socks and Loafers:
The chevron texture is a nice point of difference.
This design is incredibly classic.
A burgundy pair gets extra trend points.
4. Smart Sequins
Style Notes: We're used to seeing sequin-sprinkled party dresses and evening accessories, but sparkles are steadily working their way into everyday outfits. The key is to choose sophisticated silhouettes like a pencil skirt or classic collared shirt, and the sequins will add that extra something.
Shop Sequins:
You could probably even wear this into the office (depending on how strict the dress code is).
This whole look is divine.
Tweed and sequins is a fusion I can get behind.
5. Fair Isle Cardigans
Style Notes: Fair Isle naturally brings Christmas to mind, but I've come around to wearing my traditional knits all winter. As 2024 is the year of the cardigan, this is how cool girls are currently donning the trend.
Shop Fair Isle Cardigans:
This vibrant piece will instantly lift your winter blues.
Try a neutral iteration and style it as you would your favourite jumpers.
Peak cosy.
6. Cuffs Over Knitwear
Style Notes: A quick way to spruce up your knitwear? Wrap a bold cuff-style bangle around your wrist—but layer it over your sleeve, don't hide it underneath. This outfit-boosting trick is proving popular amongst the fashion set this winter.
Shop Cuffs:
Beautiful.
Silver is definitely having a moment.
This looks so premium.
7. Fold-Over Boots
Style Notes: Despite Givenchy's Shark Lock boots hitting icon status, fold-over boots probably haven't become a major trend because not everyone is on board. I get it; it's an unusual silhouette and the exaggerated fold can feel difficult to pull off. But once you get the proportions right, they can take a simple ensemble from ordinary to eye-catching.
Shop Fold-Over Boots:
The boot that started it all.
A great high-street option.
This pair feels more wearable.
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