Winter trends looking hot

With the winter holiday season just around the corner, knowing new fashionable trends makes holiday shopping easier.

As always, knits are a staple of winter fashion, but this season they are one of the most fashionable looks. Legwarmers are a big hit, especially over leggings with a loose sweater. Try a pair from American Apparel for $16.

Sweaters are trendy in textured, chunky knits. When paired with leggings and boots, the trend is easy to pull off. American Eagle's Knit Cowl Neck Sweater, priced at $49.50 is a good buy.Boots are another staple of winter.

The Hermes and Isabel Marant Autumn/Winter 2010 Fashion Shows featured over-the-knee boots. Rihanna has also been spotted wearing the boots with short dresses."When done correctly, the trend can be pulled off," says Andrea Linett from Lucky Magazine. Wear boots with black leggings and a loose top or mini skirt and shirt. 

Flat over-the-knee boots work as well. Try the $99 Chinese Laundry Tripin Boot from piperlime.comWhen buying over-the-knee boots, look for a pair with a round or tapered toe. Kate Moss and Penelope Cruz have pulled off the look with skinny jeans. This trend works well with stretch boots. Marc Jacobs had his winter collection full of autumn colored suede over-the-knee boots in shades of dark red and purple. 

Fur is always associated with winter; Christian Lacroix has inspired fashionistas to add fur to their wardrobe. Try a $50 cape or a faux-fur vest from H&M. Try a poncho this season too. It's similar to a loose jacket but is a closed square fabric with a hole for the head. It has been seen on Marc Jacob's runway this season. Try a $126 plaid San Buenaventura poncho from Hollister. 

Designers, such as Jill Stuart, have been showing pieces inspired by the 1700s. The style can be described as sharp tailoring with a mix of masculine clothing. To pull off this look, try clothing with a British vibe. Look for pieces with high collars, ruffles, double breasted jackets and fob chains. This trend has been labeled as "female dandy" byfashionising.com.Topshop offers British inspired clothing, being from England. Go with the Silk Ruffled Vest Tee ($40). Another great buy is the Lurex Rose Blouse ($80). It is great for the holiday season because it is sparkly yet sophisticated.

As for men, the color palette is mostly dark: black, grey, brown and deep colors. White and beige can be added for a sophisticated look. Prada and Dior Home featured black slacks. Try a pair from Club Monaco. Blazers are always trendy, but try one in velvet. Besides keeping one warm it looks sophisticated with jeans and a shirt. Try the Town & Country Blazer in Grey, urbanoutfitters.com $148). Another option is going with light pieces; go with the Insight Duotonomy Cardigan (Urban Outfitters, $88).Sweaters have been loose fitting rather than form fitting. Go for a loose cardigan, BDG Dropped Shoulder Cardigan is a good buy (Urban Outfitters, $28).


Using these popular winter trends as a guideline, holiday shopping for loved ones should be a breeze. Whether you want to spend a lot of money on high end designer fashions or save money by purchasing inexpensive trendy clothing, knowing the latest seasonal styles can keep your loved ones warm and looking hot.