As the chill sets in across South Africa’s diverse regions—from the icy breezes of the Highveld to the rainy Cape winters—fashion steps into a dynamic season of layering, texture, and bold expression. South African winter fashion in 2025 is a celebration of warmth and individuality, blending global influences with distinctly local flair. Here’s what’s trending this season for men and women, along with the standout colours defining winter wardrobes.
Male Fashion: Refined Ruggedness Meets Urban Edge
1. Over shirts and Utility Jackets
The utilitarian look continues to dominate men’s fashion, with wool-blend over shirts and utility jackets becoming essential layering pieces. Expect olive greens, warm browns, and charcoal greys—ideal for pairing with jeans or tapered chinos.
2. Textured Knits and Layering
Chunky cable-knit jerseys and ribbed roll necks are making a strong statement this winter. Worn under a coat or over a crisp shirt, these pieces offer both comfort and style. Layering is functional and fashionable, especially in cities like Johannesburg and Bloemfontein where temperatures can drop significantly.
3. Wide-Leg Trousers and Statement Boots
Slim cuts are giving way to more relaxed silhouettes. Wide-leg trousers in heavier fabrics like corduroy or wool blends are trending. Pair these with rugged leather boots or high-top sneakers for an effortlessly cool winter ensemble.
Female Fashion: Elegant Layers and Bold Statements
1. Maxi Coats and Puffer Jackets
Cape Town’s wet winters and Joburg’s dry cold call for stylish outerwear. Longline coats in belted styles add elegance, while cropped and oversized puffer jackets in metallic finishes are turning heads among younger fashionistas.
2. Knit Dresses and Co-Ord Sets
Knitwear isn’t just for jumpers. Ribbed knit dresses and matching skirt-and-top co-ord sets in wool blends are huge this year. They provide warmth without compromising on femininity, especially when styled with heeled boots and statement earrings.
3. Leather and Faux Fur
Faux fur collars and trims are adding glam to winter looks, while leather jackets and pants—especially in deep hues—are in high demand. Whether genuine or vegan, leather provides a luxe texture and timeless appeal.
Colours of the Season: Nature-Inspired & Moody Hues
1. Earthy Neutrals
Think stone, taupe, camel, and sand—neutral tones that blend seamlessly with bold accents. These colours are grounding, versatile, and reflect the South African landscape.
2. Deep Greens and Burgundy
Inspired by forests and wine regions, shades like bottle green, oxblood, and aubergine are popular across both male and female fashion. These rich colours evoke warmth and luxury.
3. Pops of Orange and Sky Blue
Unexpected bursts of colour—like burnt orange or icy sky blue—are being used in accessories, knitwear, and sneakers to inject personality into winter outfits.
More South African designers are embracing sustainability by using natural fabrics and recycled materials. Afrocentric prints and shweshwe-inspired patterns are being incorporated into modern cuts and silhouettes, offering a proudly South African take on winter fashion.
South African winter fashion in 2025 is a dance between the classic and the contemporary. Whether you’re heading out in Durban’s mild winter air or bundling up in a frosty Free State morning, this season is all about texture, statement layering, and embracing both heritage and modernity in your wardrobe. Stay warm, stay bold, and most importantly—make it yours.
