From ridiculous coat styles to cut-out sweaters, it’s no surprise that not every winter trend off the runway works in real life. But don’t worry, when it comes to keeping tabs on what works – and more importantly, what doesn’t – this season, we’ve got you covered! Read on for our list of winter trends you should skip – and a few you should definitely try.

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Skip: the cold-shoulder sweater trend
You may want to give this ridiculous trend the *ahem* cold-shoulder. Not only does this trend have a tendency to look a little tacky if not styled properly, it’s also totally inappropriate for winter weather. Considering the whole point of a great seasonal knit is to not only look stylish but also keep warm, these sweaters rob you of any practicality by exposing your shoulders and throwing the balance off of an otherwise cohesive cold-weather ensemble. Keep warm with our top picks of stylish
winter boots that will keep you dry and cozy instead.

Tobi
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Try: a trendy sweater style that doesn’t leave (bits of you) out in the cold
We’re all for a funky update on a seasonal favourite, and there’s a way to do it without risking a deep freeze. Instead of looking to cut-out styles, check out some seasonal knits with added-on details. We love the unexpected corset details on this otherwise thick-knit sweater.
Tobi Cross Over Oatmeal Lace Up Sweater, $42.
Tobi Cross Over Oatmeal Lace Up Sweater, $42.

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Skip: the exaggerated coat trend
This coat may be on-trend for fashion week, but it’s just a little out there for everyday. Unless you’re aiming for that trash-bag-chic look, we’d suggest skipping this one.
If you’re in the market for a winter coat that works, check out our roundup of the winter coats you need to survive the season.
If you’re in the market for a winter coat that works, check out our roundup of the winter coats you need to survive the season.

Zara
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Try: a sample-sized take on the quilted puffer trend
Instead of going all out with an exaggerated and not-so-practical coat, try an accessory-version instead. We love the high-fashion look of this quilted puffer scarf, which gives you a softer dose of the funky trend and gives you the versatility of pairing it with softer coats and knits.
Zara Quilted Scarf, $10.
Zara Quilted Scarf, $10.

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Skip: too-long sleeves
We’re all for having fun with your fashion, and while this street style look is totally on trend with it’s oversized style and exaggerated sleeves, it just doesn’t work outside of fashion week. Not only will the too-long sleeves look sloppy and overwhelming on your frame, but from a practical standpoint: is it even possible to keep these things clean while doing anything other than standing still? Just another unusual fashion trend that leaves us scratching our heads.

HM
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Try: embellished sleeves
You can do a flared – or “bell” – sleeve without drowning in it, and you can have some fun with it, too. We love the look of the rose embroidery in the sleeves on this sweet knit. The shorter length and lightweight knit make it a great piece to transition into your spring wardrobe with skirts and shorts. Read on for more tips on how to get more out of your winter wardrobe!
HM Knit Sweater, $35.
HM Knit Sweater, $35.

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Skip: stiletto boots
Anyone who has a prayer of getting through a Canadian winter isn’t going to make it unscathed in a pair of stiletto boots. Sure, it’s a sexy look, but how sexy will it be when you can’t take two steps without toppling over? Be realistic about the season and skip the styles that just don’t make sense.

Tobi
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Try: boots you can actually wear
Get the height you’re after and lessen your chances of taking a spill with a snug pair of ankle booties and a chunky heel. We can’t lie: we know these white velvet ribbed booties might not be the most practical colour for the slushy season, but how could we resist? And check out that block heel!
Leandra White Velvet Booties, $137.
Leandra White Velvet Booties, $137.

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Skip: shorts and tights
While we sympathize with the fond memories of summer styling, there’s a time and place for those shorts, and no matter how opaque your stockings are, this look isn’t fooling anyone. It’s (way past) time to put your summer wardrobe in storage and get on board with some more seasonally appropriate picks.
Didn't get the memo? Make sure you're up to date on the fashion trends that are so over.
Didn't get the memo? Make sure you're up to date on the fashion trends that are so over.

Mango
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Try: maxi skirts
Midi and maxi skirts have been huge this season, and the fashion forecast predicts this style won’t be slowing down at all come spring. Invest in this style – and the next – with a longer skirt that will look fabulous over knee-high boots or, for the adventurous type, try sneakers for the ultimate dressy-casual mix and match look.
Mango Flecked Pencil Skirt, $40.
Mango Flecked Pencil Skirt, $40.

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Skip: micro-scarves
We get it: there’s something oh-so-Parisian-chic about a sweet silky square looped around your neck. But let’s get real: that small scrap of fabric is not going to do you any favours once that bitter cold wind kicks up.

Aritzia
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Try: silky blanket scarves
Get that slinky-cool feel plus some much-needed extra coverage with a lightweight blanket scarf. Big enough to both keep you warm and offer multiple ways to style it, a blanket scarf is one winter accessory you simply can’t face the season without. Just like our roundup of the best fall investment pieces, this is one of those winter staples you’re going to want to stock up on.
Aritzia Babaton Blanket, $30.
Aritzia Babaton Blanket, $30.

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Street Style At LFW 2012

HM
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Try: classic straight leg denim
Flattering and on-trend, classic straight-leg denim is the new skinny-jean. The go-to pair you never knew you needed, these jeans work with casual and dressy looks and can be styled in a multitude of ways. We love dressing them up with pumps and a sleek blouse for that model-off-duty effect.
HM Vintage High Ankle Jeans, $40.
HM Vintage High Ankle Jeans, $40.

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Skip: furry accessories
We can’t see the appeal in looking like your toting a poodle-purse around town, but fur bags and accessories (we’re hoping faux!) are definitely a major trend for the season.

Aldo
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Try: textured accessories
Skip the furry details and still make a statement with hairless accessories that pack a punch. Textured styles (like this rich velvet crossbody bag with embroidered details) are right on trend and guaranteed to make an impact – minus the shedding of the furry alternative!
Aldo Durosty Bag, $23.
Aldo Durosty Bag, $23.

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Skip: cropped knits
The last thing you need to make it through the cold season in style is less fabric, so why rob your midriff off the warmth it’s going to need when temperatures take a dip?

Nakd Fashion
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Try: snug knits with bold details
If the idea behind a cropped knit is maintaining a little figure beneath those winter layers, why not try a fitted knit like this bold red turtleneck with flared sleeves?
Nakd Fashion High Neck Wide Sleeve Sweater, $46.
Nakd Fashion High Neck Wide Sleeve Sweater, $46.
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