Seasonal fashion trends come and go, but some styles have proved to stand the test of time. I chatted with Anna Lavo, a celebrity stylist and business-owner of eight years, about what winter trends to skip this year—and the capsule wardrobe pieces to swap them for instead.
After styling thousands of clients, Lavo tells REAL SIMPLE that she has plenty of experience creating versatile, timeless pieces that mix luxury and practicality. “I love building wardrobes that make getting dressed effortless—where every item works together and reflects the client’s lifestyle, body type, and personal brand,” she says. She included her go-to finds below, including cashmere sweaters, wool coats, and knee-high boots, all $100 or less on Amazon.
Meet the Expert
Anna Lavo is a celebrity fashion stylist based in New York City. She graduated from the School of Style in Los Angeles and earned a degree in fashion from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Lavo opened her own professional styling business eight years ago and has since styled thousands of clients, including public figures, celebrities, and everyday professionals.
Stylist-Approved Amazon Finds
Skip: Distressed Denim
Keep: Levi’s Ribcage Straight Jeans
Amazon
This winter, you can skip the shredded knees and frayed hems, according to Lavo. “I don’t recommend distressed jeans—they tend to make an outfit look less polished.” She recommends high-waisted straight-leg jeans, like this style from Levi’s. “They’re clean, timeless, and the perfect base for a chic, elevated wardrobe,” shares Lavo.
Skip: Low Quality/Synthetic Materials
Keep: Suuuksess Oversized Cashmere Sweater
Amazon
It’s best to avoid “the lure” of low-quality, synthetic materials, like acrylic and polyester, says Lavo. She notes that while they are more affordable, these fabrics tend to lack the same breathability and insulation as their natural counterparts.
“Choosing natural fibers like wool, cotton, and cashmere not only keeps you warmer but also feels more comfortable against the skin and lasts longer. Investing makes for more sustainable, soft, and stylish wardrobes.” Her suggestion is this oversized cashmere sweater, which features ribbed detailing on the crewneck, hem, and cuffs.
Skip: Neon/Bright Colors
Keep: Amazon Essentials Double Breasted Coat
Amazon
Neon and overly bright tones are out this season, per Lavo, since they can easily cheapen your look. “Instead, go for deep, rich shades like burgundy, forest green, navy, and chocolate brown,” Lavo explains, noting that these tones instantly elevate any outfit and make it look more luxurious. Cue this Amazon Essentials double-breasted coat, which is made from a soft wool blend and available in said colors.
Skip: Baggy Clothes All Around
Keep: PrettyGarden Long-Sleeve Blazer
Amazon
“Wearing baggy pieces [from] head to toe can easily look unpolished,” shares Lavo. She explains that the key is balance, achieved by mixing oversized elements with structure. “Add a defined waistline, tailored pants, or a jacket with strong shoulders to make the look intentional and elevated.” Aka, this PrettyGarden blazer, which does exactly that and then some, with elegant details like a notch lapel and button closure.
Skip: Logo Overload
Keep: Donnain Suede Leather Crossbody Bag
Amazon
Wearing logos can look overdone, according to Lavo, which is why she recommends investing in quiet luxury pieces with clean lines and great structure. She says that pieces like this crossbody suede leather bag instantly elevate your look and “make you appear effortlessly refined.”
Skip: Micro Shorts (Good for Fall, Not Winter)
Keep: PrettyGarden Midi Corduroy Skirt
Amazon
Lavo recognizes that while microshorts can feel fresh and playful in the early fall, once winter sets in, they can quickly become impractical. “Swap these for a chic midi skirt and tights or a tailored pair of trousers to keep you warm and avoid being caught out in the cold,” says Lavo. Enter this corduroy skirt, which has a high waist, a slit opening, and mid-calf length.
Skip: Ballet Flats
Keep: Modatop Knee-High Boots
Amazon
Lavos says it’s best to swap out your cute ballet flats for more seasonally-appropriate shoes that’ll keep your toes warm. “Go for structured loafers or sleek knee-high boots. They keep your look polished, elevated, and weather-ready.” Her pick is these knee-high boots that are made from a supple faux-leather and have a zipper closure down the back.
