All That Glitters

ALL THAT G L I T T E R S

HOW TO STAY TRENDY THIS WINTER WITH THESE DRAMATIC FASHION TRENDS

By Manon Bushong, Contributing Writer Photographed by Seth DeGier, Contributing Photographer Modeled by Manon Bushong and Corbin Woessner

While winter fashion trends tend to incorporate muted colors, this is hardly an excuse for a season of dressing plainly. In the upcoming winter fashion season, there are numerous extravagant trends to look out for. Incorporating these into your outfit rotation is a great way to feel good and prevent you from falling into a repetitive winter wardrobe.

Statement Coats

In the midst of a bitter Wisconsin winter, it can be difficult to consistently dress fashionably. When the temperature dips below freezing, most students shift their priority from putting together a trendy outfit to dressing for comfort and warmth. While it can feel as though you have to make a choice between the two styles, a great way to feel fashionable this winter is by sporting a chic, statement coat. Oversized puffer coats made a big appearance last winter, and will certainly remain relevant in the upcoming winter season. Patchwork prints or vibrant patterns, extravagant zippers, or different silhouettes are all ways to take this fashionable and functional piece to the next level.

Oversized Blazer

Another upcoming trend this winter is the oversized blazer. Whether it be with a sequin winter dress, jeans or a turtleneck, this piece will make any outfit instantly chic. Pair your blazer with layered jewelry and statement earrings to add depth to your outfit. If you’re looking to add color into your outfit rotation, look for a blazer with a festive pattern, vibrant shade, or even experiment with different textiles such as denim, linen and vinyl.

Balloon Sleeves

From Victorian-inspired dresses to avantgard blouses, there is no denying that balloon sleeves were huge this summer. It’s safe to say this trend will continue on into the winter, presenting itself in an even more dramatic fashion than ever before. Recent designers, such as Chanel and Comme Des Garcons, have debuted theatrical silhouettes with extremely pronounced sleeves.1 Specifically in runway looks, balloon sleeves completely own the outfit, making a massive statement.

Dramatic Pants

Dramatic pants are the next big trend for the 2020 winter. Jeans with handpainted designs, zebra print flare pants, colorful corduroys, and color block patchwork pants are all examples of unique ways to incorporate this trend into your winter style. Leather pants are also trending globally, being photographed on celebrities such as Sophie Turner and Meghan Markle.2 While this winter trend is far from new, there are dozens of innovative silhouettes and ways to style these classic pants this winter season.

Funky Sweaters

For the 2020 winter fashion season, trending sweaters are far from basic. Extremely chunky sweaters, almost appearing crocheted, have become a fashion statement favorite. Additionally, “ugly” sweaters have become trendy far beyond the holiday seasons. Sweater vests, argyle patterns, and floral prints that you would often find an abundance of in your grandmother’s closet are making their way back into fashion. Additionally, the cardigan was certainly an “it” piece last season and will surely continue to reign over sweater trends this year. There is far from a shortage of over the top clothing trends hitting the streets this winter. Many of these 2020 fashion trends encourage stepping out of your comfort zone and rocking extravagant and daring outfits. From festive outerwear to dramatic pants, incorporating this season’s looks into your wardrobe is sure to warm you up this winter. ■

1 Pithers, Ellie, et al. “The 11 Biggest Autumn/Winter 2020 Trends.” British Vogue, 2020. 2 Bailey, Alyssa. “Here’s a Rare Look at How Meghan Markle Dresses Off-Duty for a Fall Double Date.” ELLE, ELLE, 2020,