8 Best Winter Outfit Travel Clothes Staples

Some fashion trends fade just as quickly as they appear. They have their time in the sun for a season or two, and then get replaced with the next popular variation. High-rise pants to low-rise, boho to modern, lime to forest green—we embrace them, and then donate or store them until the trend cycles around again.

Not only is it challenging to keep up with what is new and cool, but it’s also difficult to justify purchases that lack longevity. For this year’s winter outfits, why not keep it classic? Instead of buying a trendy item, pick a timeless piece that will keep you looking in style, whether at home or traveling abroad. Cozy cardigans, cropped jackets, pointed shoes, and more, we made a handy list to know what to shop for this season. Ahead are eight winter trends not to buy this season—and the versatile staples to invest in instead.

Best Overall Stylist Finds

Skip: Baggy 

Invest: Tailored

Yes, the oversized and loose look is having a moment. When done right, it can have an effortlessly chic look, but it very easily can do the opposite and make you look sloppy or that you are trying too hard. Tailored pieces are better long-term investments, like nipped-at-the-waist blazers, high-rise trousers, and dresses with silhouettes that sit closer to the body. Your closet should have a few of these wardrobe staples that are appropriate for the office and can also be paired with casual pieces for weekend plans. If you want a more trendy piece, try the very popular vest.

Aritzia Wilfred Regal Vest

Skip: Shackets 

Invest: Cropped or Boxy Jackets

The half-shirt, half-jacket has become a fall staple. While they’re certainly cute and cozy, they can also read more casual and outdoorsy. Cropped jackets have a more streamlined, structured look and are a better choice to show off your personal style, whether edgy with a leather moto, feminine with a blazer look, or modern with a cropped trench. Cropped jackets are also worth the splurge since they are classic. Their shorter length pairs perfectly with high-waisted pants, jeans, dresses, or maxi skirts.

Abercrombie Cropped Blazer

Skip: Long Cardigan

Invest: Striped Sweaters

When we talk about wardrobe staples, those pieces you should always have in your closet, the striped sweater is at the top of the list. When worn with jeans, it’s an easy throw-on-and-go look to wear regularly—it’s the opposite of a long, bulky sweater you can’t layer under a coat, and is impossible to pack for a trip. So this winter, add some stripes to your sweater lineup from dark merlot and white to bold lines.

Madewell Striped Pullover Sweater

Skip: Crossbody Bags

Invest: Hobo Bags

While I’ll never let go of my crossbodies, I will be using them a lot less this season in favor of hobo bags. With a shape that sits comfortably on your shoulder, this style can also be roomier, fitting everything you need—and more (hello, perfect travel purse). The slouchy shape molds to your body and has a classic look to it, making it so versatile. Keep an eye out for suede styles and leathers that are soft and pliable, and can also be dressy to easily go from day to night.

Anthropologie Love Knot Slouchy Bag

Skip: Platform Sneakers

Invest: Low-profile Sneakers

The added height platform sneakers provide is certainly a plus, but the look can easily be read as juvenile or outdated. Instead, choose a low-profile sneaker, a style that will keep you closer to the ground. Not only are they usually more comfortable, but they will also cause you to trip less (an issue I have always found with platform sneakers). Plus, they look cooler with a retro athletic aesthetic that will match your track pants, jeans, or joggers. 

Veja Campo Leather Shoes

Skip: Round Toe

Invest: Pointy or Square Toe

Another shoe swap you should make is opting for a more angled toe over a rounded style. Pointy and square-toe shoes are more comfortable since they provide more room for your feet and toes to spread out. They also deliver a more flattering, longer-leg look, especially heeled boots or booties that will stick out underneath straight-leg pants or wide-leg jeans. They also have a more sophisticated appearance that can look dressier too. Pointy-toe flats are a versatile option for trips since you can walk in them during the day and wear them to dinner. They also take up no space in your suitcase. 

Dream Pairs Chunky Heel Ankle Booties

Skip: Neons and Pastels

Invest: Earth Tones

Colors can certainly add personality to your look, but depending on the season and shade, certain colors can stand out—and not in an ideal way. What is always in style and ultra-chic are neutrals. Luxe-looking whites and creams, soft camels, beiges, and chocolate brown, a hue having a moment this season. The best part is that these shades are easy to mix and match. They also make worthy investment pieces like a camel coat or white silk skirt because they’ll last in your closet for years. 

Athleta Pinnacle High Rise Trouser

Skip: Off-the-Shoulder

Invest: High Necks

Instead of exposing your neck, opt for turtlenecks and funnel neck pieces that are the ultimate style for completely effortless winter sophistication. They also help keep your look minimal, with little jewelry needed, and draw attention to your beautiful face. Plus, they provide more coverage to keep you warm. In addition to sweaters, shop for other high-neck pieces like outerwear and tops. They range from casual, like a soft funnel-neck fleece, to dressy, like a silk blouse.

Amazon Essentials Women’s Soft Touch Funnel Neck Cable Sweater

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