10 'Basic' trends to avoid this winter according to a fashion writer

There are two types of people in this life. Those who desperately require the assistance of a Stanley Cup to get them through days in-office, and those who can't be bothered to lug them around. They're sleek, trendy and come in an array of colours, making them failsafe gifts for winter. Yet, we're intrigued to see how long this thirst-quenching trend can last, and what the water bottle market has in store for 2025.

Want to stand out from the crowd? Ditch the monogrammed tote. Look instead to more striking silhouettes, Prada's 'Medium Leather Handbag,' Gucci's iconic 'Jackie' or Louis Vuitton's adorable vanity cases for example. 

Not all Christmas jumpers are made the same, some are definitely better than others. We aren't talking about lovely Fairisle knits; we're talking about the garish slogans and cartoon santas. Worn only a few days out of the year, predictable in the extreme, cheaply made and poorly constructed. Resist the urge for a cringe-worthy throw on this year, and perhaps opt for a cosy knitted number instead. Country-chic accomplished. Or follow Lauren Ramsay's guide for rocking an 'Ugly' Xmas jumper with style.

We don't know who needs to hear this, but a pumpkin spice latte is not the be all and end all of winter-themed drinks. Mulled wine, or even mulled cider, is so much more elegant. Plus, didn't you hear? Sobriety is the chicest seasonal trend 2024 has to offer. Bring on the sparkling elderflower.

Apologies to the glitz-lovers among you, but sparkly red nail polish is the bane of winter beauty. It takes an age to scrub off once chipped and gaudy glittering hues, particularly those of the red persuasion, gives major Fairy Godmother from Shrek vibes. Try instead the more demure 'Grown Up Glitter' nails. Like a french mani... but festive.

Clichéd social media captions are on par with matching Christmas pyjamas - we can do better. 'Tis the season,' or 'Sleigh' are out for 2024. Replace with 'Christmas.mov' for videos, or a simple 'Festive.' 

Ok so Christmas markets are of course lovely... but there are so many more original ways to get merry this season. We'd recommend catching the Fragile Beauty: Photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Collection exhibition at the V&A before it ends, or getting tickets to Ballet Black: Heroes at the Linbury Theatre. If you need a laugh with friends, head to the Garrick Theatre for Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss,' latest on-stage offering Why Am I So Single? No queuing required - except for the bathrooms during the interval. Need more inspo? Check our our weekly The Radar newsletter to stay in the know about upcoming cultural events.

Unless you live in the middle of the countryside, there is no excuse for the longline puffer. This season bitter cold can be just as easily combatted by a shorter version. We're feeling duffles, Afghans and woollen wonders instead in 2024.

Knee-highs are all the rage this season, putting our 'cheugy' 2000s ankle-grazers to the side for yet another season. (I'm sure they will have a comeback but I'm just not sure when.) Coperni, Acne Studios and Prada have some stellar past-the-calf options.

Avocado toast became 'basic' as it quickly mainstreamed from trendy cafes to every brunch menu and Instagram feed, losing its unique appeal. The chic girlies and chefs in the know now opt for mushrooms on toast, favouring its earthy, umami depth and versatility. Mushrooms add an unexpected, elevated touch—perfect for those craving something fresh yet refined.