Here are the four trends I'm most looking forward to wearing this winter in New York City.
Kaye Bassey is an editor in residence at Who What Wear, recognized for her nearly ten years of experience as a fashion and beauty content creator, influencer, and writer. She has recently launched her Substack newsletter, where she shares insights on trends, outfit inspiration, shopping tips, and other insider advice. Winter in New York City is truly a stunning time of year! The temperatures slowly drop, the leaves transform into a beautiful golden hue, and the brisk weather and cool breezes begin to settle in. This shift in temperature prompts a change in wardrobe essentials. I start to delve into my closet for layers, sweaters, jackets, and more. It's refreshing to embrace the seasonal transition and reach for items that can be layered. Experimenting with various textures, fabrics, and patterns becomes much easier when the weather cools down, unlike the summer when all you can manage is a tank top and shorts. Thankfully, it’s one of my favorite seasons for dressing. I won't deny it—I'm a fan of the creativity that winter outfits can offer, and this year is no exception. I adore rich suedes, plaid, deep chocolate browns, and burgundies; all of which are perfect for winter. Fortunately, this season presents a range of fabulous trends to look forward to! I genuinely enjoy how creative outfits can become during the winter months.
Winter is arguably the prime time to try out new pieces, colors, and textures. I like to think there is an unspoken rule that the best fashion ensembles incorporate layers, dimensions, or interesting textures—elements that captivate attention and make you pause a little longer. As for this season, the trends I am most excited about are those that add extra intrigue to an outfit.
1. Suede
Suede is such a warm texture and fabric. When winter arrives, I bring out all of my suede items, from jackets and coats to shoes and bags. There’s something about incorporating a suede piece that instantly adds warmth, coziness, and an inviting feel to your outfit. Here are some items I see adding beauty to my wardrobe.
- Massimo Dutti: Medium Split Leather Lady Bag
- Free People x Yellowstone: Suzy Suede Jacket
- Reformation: Oversized Patrizia Bag
- COS: Studio Bowling Bag in Leather
2. Animal Print
Honestly, I have a love-hate relationship with animal print. One season it’s in style, and the next it’s considered a major fashion faux pas. However, this season, I’m fully embracing animal print. It’s trending now, and I want to indulge without being criticized for my choices. I discovered this lovely silk piece that has a subtle nod to the 1960s with its A-line mini silhouette, which I paired with stockings. Loafers, boots, heels—any type of footwear really adds an exciting touch to an outfit.
- MISA Los Angeles: Jonah Dress
- Steve Madden: Nitro Brown Cow Print Boots
- ZARA: Tailored Animal Print Blazer
- Ann Taylor: Calf Hair Slingback Pump
- Massimo Dutti: Alpaca Wool Blend Animal Print Cardigan
3. Plaid
Plaid is back, everyone! The private-school girl in me is genuinely thrilled. Anything plaid makes me feel joyful: dresses, skirts, socks, blouses, etc. There’s something so classy yet youthful about it. I can’t wait to incorporate more plaid into my winter wardrobe.
- Brandon Maxwell: The Sophie Prince of Wales Plaid Virgin Wool Fit & Flare Minidress
- The Frankie Shop: Alrose Houndstooth Midi Skirt
- Massimo Dutti: Long Check Tunic Dress
- PAIGE: Bobbi Houndstooth Wool Blend Miniskirt
- ZARA: Limited Edition Plaid Blazer
4. Everything Brown
A special mention goes to the color chocolate brown. I view it as the preppy younger sister of black. When I want to avoid the starkness that black can bring, I gravitate toward rich colors with warm, softer shades. For me, chocolate brown helps me look and feel elegant at night while still approachable, without the overwhelming heaviness of darker colors.
- FEMME LA: G63 Slingback Pump
- Banana Republic: The Everyday Wide-Leg Pant
- Steve Madden: Quincey Brown Leather
- Reformation: Carolina Silk Skirt
- Veda: Harrison Leather Oversized Bomber
- CHRISTOPHER ESBER: Mineral Stone Hollow Cutout Embellished Ribbed Jersey T-Shirt
- CHRISTOPHER ESBER: Mineral Stone Embellished Ruched Ribbed Jersey Midi Skirt
- retrofête: Hasli Silk Chiffon Top
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