Winter Fashion Faux Pas

Fashion Faux Pas

With winter fashion being in full swing, we New Yorkers are subjected to freezing temps and bone-chilling pockets of wind, there comes a time where one draws the line with his or her styling choices.

Winter Fashion – Women’s Furry Vests

Yes, we need to bundle up to protect ourselves from acute frostbite, which means more layers, thicker clothes, and woolen garb. On the other hand, by no means does this burst of frigidity mean bust out the fashion faux pas.

Women’s Winter Fashion – Puffer Vest By Michael Kors

This season, there is some spotted fashion that is curdling my blood worst than the mere thought that soon snowpocalypses and blizzards are on their way. Fur, animal hats and scarves, puffy vests, chunky sweaters, and Uggs are popping up around every corner, and I am forced to bite my tongue before I call PETA or worse.

Looking like you just came straight out of the forest having skinned a melee of animals is not okay by any stretch. Furry vests, popularized by the likes of Rachel Zoe, have women traipsing the streets looking like modern-day hybrid-racoon-polar bear people. Not cute. Not cute at all.

Animal Winter Hats

Also, in terms of accessories, animal hats (and we all know which ones I’m talking about) that have ears and faces and dangling fuzzy balls are not for the 20 to 30 something year old professional. Fuzzy hats with cute little penguins on them are for children and children only.

Scarves, gloves, and aforementioned hats with fuzzy balls dangling from every corner screams pre-school. So, unless you have succumbed to attaching your mittens to your jacket, back away from the cartoonish animal gear.

Winter Fashion Faux Pas – Men’s Fox Hat

Puffy vests and Uggs are two trends that just won’t seem to go away. PLEASE go away! Puffy vests are not cute on anyone instead they make you look like the Michelin mascot or a big ol’ marshmallow, a marshmallow who deserves to be splattered with hot chocolate.

Fashion Faux Pas – Green Winter Vest

Just because it’s winter does not mean there is an excuse to be sporting a neon orange puffy vest. No way. No how. Lastly, Uggs. That’s all I have to say about those god awful poor excuse for boots because they’re oh so comfy.

Women’s Winter Fashion – Uggs Boots

What are some of the biggest winter fashion faux pas?

Winter fashion, like any other season, has its do’s and don’ts.

Here are some common winter fashion faux pas to avoid:

Overdressing: While staying warm is essential in winter, overdressing can lead to discomfort and a bulky appearance. Layering is key to staying both stylish and warm.
Neglecting Footwear: In winter, your choice of footwear is crucial. Wearing inappropriate shoes that don’t provide enough warmth or traction can be a fashion faux pas and a safety hazard.
Ignoring Accessories: Accessories like scarves, hats, gloves, and earmuffs not only keep you warm but also add style to your winter outfits. Neglecting them can make your outfit look incomplete.
Mismatched Colors: Winter fashion doesn’t mean you have to stick to dark and dull colors. However, clashing or overly bright colors can be distracting. Aim for a balanced color palette.
Ill-fitting Coats: An oversized or poorly fitting coat can ruin your entire winter look. Make sure your winter coat fits well and complements your body shape.
Bulky Layers: Layering is essential in winter, but too many bulky layers can make you look frumpy. Opt for thinner, thermal layers when possible.
Neglecting Proper Winter Fabrics: Choosing fabrics that are not suited for cold weather, like lightweight cotton, can lead to discomfort. Opt for warm, insulating materials like wool, cashmere, and down.
Visible Socks with Boots: If you’re wearing boots, make sure your socks are not visible above the boots unless it’s a deliberate style choice.
Too Much Bling: Overly flashy jewelry or accessories can be overwhelming. Keep it simple and elegant.
Unkempt Winter Gear: Dirty, salt-stained, or worn-out winter gear, such as boots or gloves, can detract from your overall look. Keep them clean and in good condition.
Neglecting Personal Style: Winter fashion shouldn’t mean sacrificing your personal style. Find ways to incorporate your style into your winter wardrobe.
Not Paying Attention to Silhouettes: Understanding your body shape and choosing winter clothing that flatters it is important. Ill-fitting or unflattering silhouettes can make you look less put-together.
Wearing Inadequate Outerwear: In extremely cold climates, fashion should take a back seat to warmth and safety. Wearing insufficiently warm outerwear just to look stylish can be a major mistake.
Visible Undergarments: Make sure your undergarments, especially thermals, are not visible through your clothing.
Forgetting About Function: While style is important, don’t forget the functionality of your winter clothing. Make sure it provides the warmth and protection you need for the weather conditions.

Winter Fashion Faux Pas

Remember that fashion is subjective, and personal style varies from person to person. What may be considered a fashion faux pas by some might be a bold fashion statement for others. Ultimately, it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in what you wear during the winter months.

Check out our Winter Fashion Faux Pas: