As the weather continues to cool (although it's still 17C and sunny as I write), it's about time to relegate the crop tops to the back of the closet and bust out the coats, cosy knits and leather clodhoppers - winter is nigh upon us.
Although Aotearoa - or Auckland, at least - isn't quite a couture capital in the vein of New York, Paris or London, winter is still an ideal time to have fun with fashion. With so many layers, textures and accessories to experiment with, there's plenty of statements to be made, from your oversized knit to your outerwear.
Of course, there are several staples anyone should have in their capsule wardrobe: the classics that form the foundation of most 'fits and can be easily built upon. For winter, think your tried-and-true black trench coat, cream cable knit and black trousers, teamed with the perfect pair of leather (or pleather) boots. Once you have the basics, you can start experimenting with different colours, textures and silhouettes: swap the trench for a fun faux fur number or inject a dose of colour with a vibrant sweater.
If you're more into classic shapes, a neutral palette and less-is-more aesthetic, you're in luck: the 'quiet luxury' trend has taken off on TikTok and the runways and will undoubtedly be a key look for the New Zealand winter. Think of the effortlessly chic, insouciant looks seen on the likes of Katie Holmes, Victoria Beckham and Angelina Jolie: a black or neutral-coloured coat or blazer, perhaps minimally patterned with pinstripes, houndstooth or a classic check, teamed with a white shirt, tailored black trousers or jeans, and a simple loafer, black boot or court shoe. These items will typically be simple but expertly executed with barely-there detailing and an expensive price-tag: screaming 'luxury' without logos or branding emblazoned across it.
The other trend set to see a resurgence this winter? Scarves - queue "florals for spring? Groundbreaking." The point of difference is that the more obnoxiously overwhelming your scarf is, the better. Dramatic knitted numbers and cape-like creations will be your best friend: throw a dramatic tartan blanket around your shoulders like you would for a night of Netflix, but make it 'fashion'. On the runaways, models were seen sporting blanket-like scarves over everything, from sharp tailoring to evening gowns.
In a departure from quiet luxury, the androgynous, non-conformist sartorial touchpoints made famous by Dame Vivienne Westwood have also been echoed on many a runway. If understated, pared-back elegance isn't your style, embrace the return of bold tartan and plaid, platform stompers, corseting, leather and artful rips and shreds that hark back to the '70s punk era she pioneered. Also rebelling against the corporate classics trending this season, sequins, spangles, metallics and beading have made a comeback, particularly in vibrant jewel tones or precious metal shimmers. Affectionately named 'mermaidcore', this trend is a departure from the nautical look we know and love, instead embracing an under-the-sea aesthetic reminiscent of sparkling scales and mermaid tails.
With that being said, if it's about time for a seasonal shop or you're in desperate need of a wardrobe update, here's Newshub Lifestyle's winter fashion wrap to get you started.
Coats and outerwear
As aforementioned, there's never a winter where a black or neutral-toned coat will be rendered obsolete: it's a timeless classic that can be worn with almost anything, transformed from day to night, from office to out-on-the-town. As proclaimed by Westwood, we should all "buy less, choose well, make it last". With a staple such as this, it could be worth spending a little more - and a little more thoughtfully - on a coat that will remain in your wardrobe for years to come. From a trench to double-breasted to an oversized wool number, pick a silhouette that will stand the test of time.
The classics
- Caitlin Crisp Jefferson Coat, RRP$950
- Glassons Classic Longline Trench Coat, RRP $99.99
- Karen Walker Classic Trench, RRP$525
- Seed Heritage Houndstooth Oversized Coat, RRP$499.90
Or build on your capsule collection with a statement piece
- Armani Exchange Crocodile Print Shacket, RRP$459 via Smith and Caugheys
- Stolen Girlfriends Club Moto Queen Jacket, RRP$999
- Trelise Cooper Double Duty Coat, RRP$749
- Trelise Cooper Night At The Opera Jacket, RRP$899
Boots
A black leather (or pleather) boot will never go out of style, and with funky platforms, knee-highs and grungey lace-up combats having their moment, now's the time to expand your collection of little black boots with something a little edgier, in the vein of Vivienne or other punk powerhouses.
- Dr Martens Audrick 20I Boot, RRP$499.99
- ITNO Carrie Wedge Boot, RRP$169.99 via Platypus Shoes
- ITNO Jean Boot Tall, RRP$179.99 via Platypus Shoes
- Mi Piaci Morley Platform Boot, RRP$400
Sweaters and knits
Cuddling up in cosy knitwear is one of my favourite parts of winter, and with so many bright, beautiful and statement sweaters to choose from, you could easily build a winter wardrobe entirely from knits with one or two pairs of pants. Of course, the classic cream cable-knit or black turtleneck will always be staples, perfect for mixing and matching and effortlessly transitioning from workwear to nights with mulled wine. They also make a great layering piece: inject that dose of corporate chic by wearing a crisp white collar underneath your knit.
The classics
- Allbirds Women's Fluff Fleece Pullover, RRP$240
- Glassons Recycled Collared Long Sleeve Knit, RRP$39.99
- Penny Sage Favourite Jumper (Frangipane), RPP$690
- Seed Heritage Roll Neck Terry Sweat, RRP$99.90
Or build on your capsule collection with a statement piece
- Afends Clara Knit Crew Neck Jumper, RRP$135
- Hej Hej Bad Nan Knit Cardigan in Colour Block, RRP$380
- Stolen Girlfriends Club Altered State Cardigan, RRP$449
- Wynn Hamlyn Ava Sweater, RRP$595
Bottoms
Whether it's a tailored trouser or leather midi skirt, you don't have an outfit without something on the bottom. Kendall Jenner and her spangled bodysuit at the Met Gala would say otherwise, but for us mere mortals going about our day-to-day lives, we typically want something on the lower half. Opt for a classic, sharp silhouette with a high-waisted, straight-legged pants, or add a little intrigue with corset detailing or a '70s-style flare. For a more feminine look, embrace the midi or maxi-length skirt in a supple leather or thick knit for extra warmth.
- Karen Walker Long Workwear Organic Cotton Pants, RRP$345
- Maggie Marilyn Tailored Trouser, RRP$450
- Penny Sage Frances Skirt (Tobacco) RRP$420
- Seed Heritage Leather Button Midi Skirt, RRP$439.90
- Twenty-Seven Names Roma Flares, RRP$450
- Wynn Hamlyn Corset Trouser, RRP$495
- Zambesi Bias Long in Gravel, RRP$450
Scarves
And last but not least, the bread and butter of any winter wardrobe this year - a bigger-definitely-equals-better-in-this-case scarf.
- Cotton On Monica Oversized Brushed Tassel Scarf, RRP$29.99
- Decjuba Ella Check Scarf, RRP$49.90
- Glassons Check Oversized Tassel Scarf, RRP$24.99
- Moochi Scattered Scarf, RRP$189.99
- Samsoe and Samsoe Keik Scarf, RRP$189 via Superette
