With winter finally making its grand appearance it’s time to swap out your fall favorites for some seriously stylish cold-weather staples. The overall theme of the 2022/23 winter collections was contemporary comfort. Most of the accessories that graced the runway last year and this year were equal parts functional and fashionable for the frosty weather ahead.
Last year’s fall/winter runways were ablaze with oversized knits, warm and woolly headgear, hand and arm coverings galore, hearty hosiery, and some jazzy jewels to accessorize a multitude of layers. The 2022/23 winter runway accessories are the sartorial equivalent to a Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha. They keep us toasty warm on the outside while invoking all the feels of the impending Holiday Season on the inside.
- Shearling Accents
Shearling and Sherpa were a big hit on the fall/winter runways. The versatile yet comfortable fabric is the perfect way to add texture and warmth to any outfit. The cozy cloth accent adorned everything from handbags to shoes. It wasn’t only featured as an accent though there was also an influx of timeless Sherpa Coats in a variety of shapes and styles.
- Balaclavas
This year’s must-have winter accessory is as trendy as it is practical. The Balaclava is a piece of headgear that provides much-needed coverage for your head, face and neck this winter. Not only are they functional and fashionable they are also a time-saver as it doubles as a hat and scarf in one. They were seen on the runways of Givenchy, Dolce and Gabbana, and Max Mara amongst others.
- Fur Bag
Fall/Winter Runways took inspiration from Y2K with this throwback trend. A plush bag is the perfect cold-weather accessory. It’s a nice addition to your oversized sweater and jeans and adds a cozy aesthetic to any outfit. On the runway, Fendi featured plush, luxurious bags made from velour, velvet, and fur.
- Belts
Cinched waists took the fall/winter runways by storm. Whether by use of belts, creative seams, or corsetry, several designers drew the eye to the waist this season. Our favorite fall/winter trend that aided in this cinched waist aesthetic is Belts. From minimalist tone-on-tone looks to oversized statement pieces, a belt is the best way to cinch in all those warm layers this winter.
- Functional Footwear
This year’s runways featured a plethora of functional footwear for the cold weather months ahead. These included chunky booties featuring a thick sole to withstand the snow and ice, moto boots, and Chelsea boots. Another popular item was waterproof waders featured by Chanel, ACNE Studios, and Bottega Veneta. These fabulous footwear trends are sure to keep us on our toes this holiday season.
- Heavy Gauge Knit Tights
Hosiery saw a boost on the fall/winter runways paired with mini skirts and shorts. Coming into the chilly season, the tights were made with winter in mind. Featuring warmer compositions such as heavy gauge yarn, and waffle knits, these tights are sure to keep you comfy and chic.
- Gloves Galore
Celebrating all manner of luxe fabrics, gloves were all the rage on the runway this year. We saw sporty moto-inspired gloves and delicate sparkly gloves, as well as elbow-length gloves paired with dresses. Whether decked out in bright bold leather, fur-trimmed, sheepskin, or delicate knit, keep your digits warm this winter in a pair of unbelievably chic gloves.
- Oversize Earrings
Oversized Earrings were a staple accessory on the winter runways featured by several designers. The shapes and styles of the earrings were less important than the size. This year’s earrings scream bigger is better. From hoops to rhinestones, to baubles and everything in between oversized earrings reigned supreme.
- Statement Bangles
The Fall/Winter Runway proved that as far as accessories are concerned, more is more. This was especially true regarding the plethora of statement bangles featured on runway models this year. Featured by Designers such as Alexander McQueen, Jill Sander, Chanel, Rocha, and Balmain. Everything from edgy, chunky, biker-style bangles to metallic, eclectic-shaped bangles one thing is certain, big, bold, bracelets are a key winter accessory.
- Chokers
This year’s hottest runway fashion accessory was the choker. Featured by designers such as Ambush, Balenciaga, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy, Chanel & Versace. If you’ve still got your vintage choker, now is the time to put it back into rotation. If you want to modernize the look, you can emulate the runway versions with structural metallic versions or for a more feminine touch look for one made with oversized pearls.
Jessica Gardner | Contributing Writer
