What's happened
Fashion trends are moving away from minimalism toward maximalist textures, oversized silhouettes, and bold colors. The focus is on comfort, versatility, and statement accessories, with a notable shift in celebrity and retail choices reflecting these changes. This update highlights evolving consumer preferences for more expressive winter wardrobes.
What's behind the headline?
The shift from minimalism to maximalism signals a broader cultural move toward self-expression and comfort in fashion. The emphasis on textured fabrics like faux fur, sequins, and sculptural jewelry reflects a desire for visual interest without sacrificing practicality. Oversized silhouettes and relaxed fits, such as slouchy blazers and wide-leg pants, are replacing fitted, structured garments, aligning with a focus on comfort and layering ease. The decline of tiny bags and gold-only jewelry indicates a move toward larger, more functional accessories and mixed metals, which are more versatile and trend-forward. This evolution suggests retailers and brands are responding to a consumer base seeking individuality and practicality, especially during winter months. The influence of celebrity styling, as seen in Meghan Markle’s recent fashion choices, underscores a desire for approachable yet polished looks that blend casual and high fashion. Overall, these trends will likely solidify as the dominant aesthetic for the upcoming season, emphasizing bold textures, relaxed fits, and vibrant colors that energize winter wardrobes.
What the papers say
Business Insider UK highlights the move toward maximalist textures and oversized silhouettes, noting that 'overly fitted coats are behind us' and recommending relaxed, roomy fits for comfort and style. The article also emphasizes the shift from quiet luxury to brighter, more saturated colors like cobalt blue and bright green, which energize outfits. Meanwhile, NY Post discusses how Boden's new collection captures the apres-ski chic mood, focusing on warmth, color, and versatility, aligning with the trend toward practical yet stylish winter dressing. Both sources reflect a broader industry trend: consumers are seeking fashion that balances personality, comfort, and functionality, moving away from minimalism and toward expressive, layered looks that can transition from casual to festive settings.
How we got here
Recent fashion coverage indicates a move away from minimal, quiet luxury styles toward more maximalist and textured looks. Influences include a desire for comfort, practicality, and personal expression, driven by changing consumer attitudes and the influence of celebrity styling. Retailers and stylists are adapting to these trends, emphasizing bold accessories, relaxed fits, and vibrant colors.
Go deeper
More on these topics