Winter Style: 5 Ways to Rock Red Outfits

Red has been having a fashion moment for some time now. Case in point? Its repeat appearances across the Autumn/Winter 2025 runways at Chanel, Balmain, Acne Studios, Valentino, Courrèges and more. And yet, despite its catwalk credentials, it remains one of the most divisive colours in our wardrobes.

For some, red feels too bold and bright. Others simply aren’t sure what to wear it with. And then there are those—myself included—who are bored of the same old formulas, where red means a cranberry knit, blue jeans and very little imagination beyond that. So I went in search of red outfits that feel genuinely exciting again.

The brief? Looks that are eye-catching without requiring too much faff. Think subtle styling switches, unexpected pairings and silhouettes you likely already own—just seen through a slightly braver lens. From low-effort everyday combinations to outfits that lean festive without tipping into novelty, scroll on for the modern answer to how to wear red.

Red jumper + leopard print

@blaireadiebee wears red cable knit jumper leopard print skirt

For a maximalist moment, or a bit of festive fun, look for ways to make your red item not be the focal point of the outfit. Take this leopard print skirt as prime example and note the addition of the co-ordinating red lip.

COS

Cable-Knit Wool-Cashmere Jumper

MANOLO BLAHNIK

Hangisli 50 Embellished Satin Slingback Pumps

WESTMAN ATELIER

Lip Suede Matte Lipstick

PANDORA

Organically Shaped Broad Open Bangle

Red coat + basics

@neelam.ahooja wears read coat, black jeans, white t-shirt

Now, if you’re after a red styling trick that will have you out the door in no time, consider investing in a red coat. This look is proof it can liven up even the simplest of looks.

Reiss

Wool-Blend Double-Breasted Blindseam Coat

Mother

The Dodger Sneak mid-rise wide-leg jeans

THE ROW

Leather Chelsea Boots

TOTEME

Black Leather Belt Gold Buckle

Red jumper + white jeans

Marilyn Nwawulor-Kazemaks (aka @nlmarilyn) has an uncanny ability to make unusual combinations look particularly chic. Here, she shows us that red and cream look especially lovely together—even more so with the addition of a sweet lace cami.

COS

Cashmere Funnel-Neck Jumper

Intimissimi

Lace and Silk Top

AGOLDE

Luna Frayed High-Rise Barrel-Leg Jeans

AMINA MUADDI

Jamie Ruched Suede Ankle Boots

KHAITE

Olivia Medium Leather Top Handle Bag

Red tights + black leather skirt

@cherifaakili wears black pencil skirt red tights

Red tights took over the front row across fashion weeks last year, and the eye-catching hosiery is still proving popular. If you’re looking to just dip a toe into the red look, consider them a wise investment—especially when paired with colour-matching shoes.

M&S

60 Denier Opaque Tights

Whistles

Black Jamie Leather Midi Skirt

GUEST IN RESIDENCE

Cashmere Sweater

Prada

Prada Patent Leather Slingback Pumps 55

TOTEME

T-Lock Mini Textured Patent-Leather Clutch

Red cardigan + zebra coat

Any regular Marie Claire reader will know by now that animal print is a key trend of the season. Proving a statement-making zebra also works with red, @greceghanem makes an otherwise classic look all the more bold and comfortable with the trusty trainers.