December has finally arrived, and that means we can officially begin thinking about winter! While we have enjoyed getting to spend our days carving pumpkins and watching nature change colors, we’re even more excited about the prospect of what comes next. Winter means snow and huddling in front of a fireplace filled with crackling flames and a cup of apple cider in our hands. We’re already prepared to retire our sweaters and leggings in favor of our turtlenecks and mittens– and of course, winter’s newest trends. The season may not officially start till the 21st, but it never hurts to be prepared… 1. Rock it Retro The nineties might have been the main focal point of fashion this past year, but fashion has moved on to a different decade– the eighties. Big shoulders, pleats, bright colors and prints will be popping up everywhere, so don’t be afraid to overdo it. Jacket | Pants | Shoes | Turtleneck 2. No Need to (Sugar) Coat it A good winter coat is a staple of any woman’s wardrobe, and this year’s it coat is anything long and dramatic. Military coats and puffer jackets are sure to become street style favorites this season; bundle up a duster of your choice, and you’ll be warm and stylish the rest of the year. Coat | Jeans | Earrings | Watch 3. Velvet Wonder Velvet made a couple of appearances last season, which makes it the perfect transition piece to start rocking before winter officially starts. Whether it’s the slip you bought during the the fall 90’s craze or a simple choker, the more velvet you’re wearing, the better you’re sure to look. Turtleneck | Pants | Bag 4. Power Suit Power dressing has never been so easy. Tartans and checks are coming on strong, so feel free to thrift a plaid blazer with huge shoulders from your local consignment shop, or pull on a tailored pair of checkered pants. Either way, you’ll never feel more polished as you walk into the office on a cold December morning. Poncho | Button-Up | Pants | Heels 5. Layer on the Lingerie Yet another example of a trend making its way from fall through winter, lingerie is the ultimate statement piece you’ll want to be wearing. Try a slinky evening dress over a long sleeve or (if you’re feeling bold) a bustier over a white t-shirt. Cami Dress | Turtleneck | Socks | Shoes By Divya Ramaswamy Cover Image Credit