Suddenly, All the Chicest People I Know Are Wearing Outfits Featuring One of These Classy Winter Trends

I'm a self-confessed lazy dresser—I'll spend a maximum of twenty minutes assembling an outfit before I give up and resort to a basic jeans-and-jumper combination. So, I'm always seeking ways to look fashionable with little effort.

With this in mind, I love it when a trend feels accessible and easy to pull off. Realistically, fold-over boots and extreme bold shoulders will never be for me, but colour trends and fresh ways of styling old classics always appeal. Winter 2024 has offered up a slew of understated trends that I've had no problem slotting into my outfits, and when I do, I always feel confident in the overall look.

I'm in good company with the looks I've been drawn to this autumn/winter. Seven trends, in particular, have clearly resonated en masse, sweeping through Instagram and giving everyone's wardrobes the boost they need to feel current. In fact, whenever I save an outfit for inspiration these days, I find that it usually includes one of these trends. You can imagine my delight when several feature at once.

From the latest way to wear knitwear to the boot style that's become a non-negotiable, these winter outfit trends are the key to looking stylish this season.

1. Burgundy Accents

Winter outfit trends: @symphonyofsilk wears a burgundy jacket and slingbacks

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: It's become clear that adding a hint of burgundy to your outfit—be it through accessories, knitwear or outerwear—is a sure-fire way to appear sartorially clued-in. Deep, almost-brown shades are especially in favour of the fashion set.

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2. Half-Buttoned Cardigan

Winter outfit trends: @louisahatt wears a cardigan with a t-shirt and jeans

(Image credit: @louisahatt)

Style Notes: A popular trick for AW24 is to leave your cardigan partially undone, lending an effortless air to the preppier knitwear style. Button the top two or three and wear a plain white tee underneath.

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3. Suede Totes

Winter outfit trends: @claradyrhauge carries a suede tote bag

(Image credit: @claradyrhauge)

Style Notes: With a suede tote bag slung over your shoulder, everyone will recognise your fashion intel. This chic accessory will add a rich texture to all your outfits, and it's roomy enough to carry around an extra layer should a chill set in.

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4. Argyle Knitwear

Winter outfit trends: @chloekathbutler wears an argyle knit

(Image credit: @chloekathbutler)

Style Notes: It doesn't get cosier than an argyle knit. This traditional style has been given the high-fashion spin this winter, with designers like Prada and Moncler delivering elevated takes.

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5. Leather Skirts

Winter outfit trends: @ingridedvinson wears a leather pencil skirt

(Image credit: @ingridedvinson)

Style Notes: A leather midi skirt isn't just on-trend—it's also the ultimate work-to-weekend piece. This sleek staple is polished and professional, but can be easily dressed down with slouchy knitwear and boots.

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6. Oversized Wool Coats

Winter outfit trends: @_livmadeline wears an oversized grey coat

(Image credit: @_livmadeline)

Style Notes: A long wool coat strikes the perfect balance between practicality and elegance. If you're going to layer over your outfit, why not choose something this chic?

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7. Knee-High Boots

Winter outfit trends: @_santinaharrison wears knee-high boots

(Image credit: @_santinaharrison)

Style Notes: I've long been convinced that every skirt and dress outfit looks better with knee-high boots, and every example I see on Instagram backs up my hypothesis.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.