They're Here—the Only Winter 2021 Fashion Trends You Need to Know

Though some of us—particularly those residing in places with cold climates—aren't yet prepared to accept it, winter is quickly approaching. Luckily, there are a few things that arrive alongside snow, wind, and freezing temperatures that won't induce the winter blues. We're talking about this year's cold-weather trends, which happen to have just the mood-enhancing effect we need as the days grow shorter.

After taking a trip down memory lane and studying every F/W 21 runway collection in detail, we settled on eight trends that could make even the windiest of winter days feel like nothing more than a slight breeze. With super-shiny suiting, unique outerwear, and 2.0 versions of your average winter accessories—think furry mittens, opera gloves, and puffer scarves—this season is gearing up to be an especially stylish one. Keep scrolling for the eight biggest trends to know (and wear) once winter inevitably arrives. 

There's something especially intriguing about a layering piece that doubles as a going-out staple, which is why we're so engrossed by the onesies that took over the F/W 21 runways. Spotted at presentations by LaQuan Smith, Ottolinger, Prada, Rick Owens, and more last winter, the catsuit is quickly becoming one of fashion's favorite trends for its versatility and eye-catching appeal. 

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If you thought the cutout craze of summer 2021 would wave goodbye once the temperatures dropped, think again. Designers appear to be digging deeper into the trend and coming up with new and innovative ways to bring the peekaboo style into winter. Think long-sleeve dresses, tops, and jumpsuits with sleek slits around the shoulders, waist, and hips, as seen at Coperni, Mugler, Michael Kors Collection, Dion Lee, and more.

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From bright-red outerwear at Bottega Veneta to baby-pink handbags at Blumarine, a furry frenzy was apparent on the F/W 21 runways. Clearly, despite fashion's move away from 2020's comfort-first mentality, designers aren't ready to turn their backs on that cozy feeling just yet. This time around, though, getting comfortable looks a little different, and by that, we mean fuzzy and luxurious.

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You'd be surprised at what slipping on a super-shiny trench coat, tailored suit, or pair of low-slung trousers can do for your mood, even when it is 4 p.m. and already dark outside. At least, that's what today's top designers, from Off-White and Burberry to Peter Do and Gucci, would have us believe. With metallics and latex, fashion is taking a turn toward the reflective side for winter 2021.

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Sure, we're almost fully reacquainted with the outside world again, but that doesn't mean that we want to be seen at all times. Thankfully, Ami, Celine, Dior, and Courrèges found a way to make going incognito look like a purposeful style move—with the help of balaclavas, baseball caps, headscarves, and trench coats that almost completely hide your identity. 

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Winter 2021's most ubiquitous and aesthetically pleasing pattern? Moiré, the wavy, textured print that Marine Serre, Tom Ford, Sandy Liang, and Melitta Baumeister all featured in their F/W 21 collections. And we can see why. From puffers and blazers to dresses and trousers, the moiré effect is coming for a winter wardrobe near you. 

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Sweater season has hit its stride, with designers steering away from straightforward knitwear and instead opting for silhouettes that are worthy of excitement—and perhaps a purchase or two. Gabriela Hearst clearly had knitwear on the brain, as she included it in multiple ways across her namesake brand and Chloé, where she became creative director in 2020. At Ganni and The Row, knit scarves were attached to oversize sweaters, which were also present at Jonathan Simkhai.

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At last, bundling up in layers and layers of winter accessories has hit the runway. Last February, we saw an influx of especially utilitarian (with a fashion twist!) accessories, ranging from down scarves and throws to fuzzy mittens, boots, and hats. Who knows? Maybe looking trendy this winter won't mean avoiding practical attire at all costs. *Crosses fingers.*

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Next, Seven Accessory Trends That Are Outfit Makers