Each season heralds a change to our wardrobe. From the moody colour palette to our layering options, the winter fashion season tends to be many people’s favourite. In Queensland it’s a time to bring out our cherished coats, scarves and knitwear from their long and lonely hibernation. Each year I like to add one or two new and on trend pieces so that my wardrobe doesn’t become stale. Here’s what you’ll find me wearing this year.
1. Trench Coats
This is not a new option for many, but this season it’s a must have in any fashionable woman’s wardrobe. I looked long and hard for the perfect trench last year, but it was only on my last overseas trip that I found the perfect trench. It was in Mango and was not expensive at all. Go classic beige, tan or black or why not add a pop of colour? Anything goes in trenches this year: from cropped to oversized, super long to just skimming the knee. The choice is up to you, and trust me, you will know when you’ve found the perfect style. Layer it over just about everything for warmth without the bulk. Every brand seems to have a new trench coat option for 2024.
2. Half Zip Jumpers
What is winter without a cosy jumper? This year the ½ zip knit is having a moment. Look for these sweaters in plain colours or stripes. Goondiwindi Cotton and Country Road have plenty of great options with the the zipper collars bigger than ever. They are your perfect weekend option. Which brings us to…
3. Rugby Jumpers
I have never seen so many rugby jumpers, apart from on a rugby field. These are perfect for our mild winters in Queensland. I have a lovely pink and navy one from Gant but again Goondiwindi Cotton and Country Road have a great range in many colours, as do Thomas Cook and R. M. Williams. I’m eyeing off a blue and green one in my local club’s merchandise shop as well.
4. Maxi Skirts
I love a maxi skirt for winter. Pair it with your favourite knit, boots and tights and you are good to go. Leather or pleather options always look elevated, and denim maxi skirts are in every store right now. Denim maxi’s gives you an option other than jeans for that special night out or for work. Aje have some beautiful styles and Witchery and Just Jeans have so many, in great colours too. You won’t have to look far to find your ideal style.
5. Bomber Jackets
Featuring heavily at Australian Fashion Week, bombers were the choice of the darlings of the fashionable street style pack. Think floral from Camilla to original army green at Acne Studios and Mango. This fabulous wardrobe staple looks good on everyone. Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner both favour a leather bomber, and many faux leather bombers abound in the stores. Try a varsity bomber for a more casual look with jeans or sweats. Zara, ASOS, Country Road and Seed have some great iterations. I know you’ll be reaching for this item all winter for that effortless cool girl chic.
6. Velvet
Velvet is back in a big way. Black velvet is a staple, but if you dare, wear a luxe velvet suit in a jewel colour like emerald, purple or maroon. Look to Joey the Label for inspiration. This fabric exudes style and sophistication and in its newer iterations it can be stretchy, slouchy and comfortable as well. Look out for evening wear in gold and silver stretch and crushed velvet. Maiocchi have some great colourful velvet burnout dresses for your next special occasion or look to Carla Zampatti who has gowns in midnight, black or olive velvet. Me + Em and Cue have some great crushed velvet dresses.
You can pair many of these looks with your favourite coloured or patterned tights or why not create a stack of brooches to add personality to your unique winter style. It’s finally cold enough to embrace the season and to stay cosy and warm while having fun with our winter fashion. Remember it doesn’t last long in Australia so make the most of it while you can.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
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