Winter fashion: From shackets to cropped cardigans, 5 top trending winter wear options

As the temperature drops, winter fashion can often feel repetitive and a bit dull, a mix of chunky sweaters, heavy coats, and basic layers. Nevertheless, designers are shaking things up, turning what was once seen as a practical necessity into a playground for creativity and style. Look around and you will see that a volte-face in winter fashion is underway, where the focus is not just about bundling up, but also about making a statement with layers, textures, and unexpected silhouettes.

Winter these days is about warm and chic fashion that blends comfort with style, says Neeraj Singh, Head of Design at Fashinza. He shares, "Winter fashion is no longer just about throwing on a sweater or a coat. This season, it's about layering in unique ways, mixing leather and bold textures, and even playing with cropped pieces to redefine what warmth and style mean."

Singh adds 5 fashion trends to amp up your winter wardrobe and keep you warm and stylish:

• The timeless leather jacket: A leather jacket is a true investment piece, offering versatility that never goes out of style. It provides warmth and also adds a chic, stylish edge to any outfit it’s paired with. Whether layered over a midi-length dress for an elegant twist or worn casually with skinny or baggy jeans, a leather jacket complements both looks effortlessly. This lightweight yet warm outerwear protects you from the chill of winter while enhancing your overall chic factor. Choosing the right leather jacket is essential for any warm fashion ensemble this season.

• Cropped cardigans: Few items define contemporary fashion trends like the cropped cardigan. Inspired by vintage styles and popularised by high-end brands, this trend has been quickly embraced by fast fashion brands. If putting together a cute outfit feels like too much effort, a cropped cardigan paired with your favourite jeans is a simple yet stylish solution. From basic button-ups to embroidered, embellished, or printed knits, there’s a style for everyone. These shrunken knits can be easily layered with slip skirts and leather jackets, adding an extra layer of warmth and flair. Jeans and boots also make for a perfect pairing with a cropped cardigan.

• Shackets: The latest trend making waves across Instagram feeds is the shacket. It is a hybrid between a shirt and a jacket. With a variety of fabrics, finishes, and details, brushed plaid shackets have become a go-to piece this season. Heavier than a flannel shirt but lighter than a full-on coat, shackets are perfect for those days when you need a light, stylish outer layer. They pair effortlessly with everything from sweatpants to turtlenecks, offering versatility and comfort with minimal effort.

• Layering with coats: Layering coats that combine both style and warmth is essential this season. Wool coats in classic shades like camel or charcoal, paired with suit pants, offer a sophisticated look, while denim coats add a casual yet chic vibe. Trench coats, which are lightweight yet ideal for layering, bring a glamorous touch when worn with sweaters or blazers. For those seeking extra luxury, faux fur coats provide unparalleled comfort and texture, adding a glamorous element to your winter wardrobe.

• Statement boots: From biker to western or classic knee-high styles, statement leather boots are a must-have for completing your winter look. Worn over stylish patterned stockings or tucked into skinny jeans, statement boots help to spruce up your outfit and also ensure comfort with every step. Stylish footwear is essential in achieving a chic appearance, and investing in the right pair of boots can dramatically improve your winter style.