Stylists reveal 18 items from your 2023 wardrobe that you should get rid of

It's time to move on from clear, acrylic handbags, according to Kara Allen, celebrity stylist and brand-image consultant. 

"Upgrade to structured leather or fabric bags for a more classic and elegant accessory," the stylist told Business Insider.

Neon shades are cooling down and more natural colors are taking over, according to Allen.

"Embrace the soothing, natural hues of earthy tones like terracotta, sage, and mustard for a more muted yet stylish color palette," she told BI.

Massive shield or wrap-around sunglasses aren't the look any longer, according to Kendra Sharpe, wardrobe stylist and creative director of Kendra Sharpe Styling.

"A classic-style sunnie is more timeless and will be a go-to for years to come rather than the over-the-top color usually in the shield frames that clash with most outfits," she told BI.

Huge logos and monogrammed pieces are fading, according to Sharpe, and the move to quiet luxury is very in.

With the introduction of brands that prioritize luxury fabrics in classic styles, the stylist said, you can put away your oversized logos for now.

Once-trendy faux-fur slides are on the decline, according to Allen.

As a replacement option, the stylist recommended upgrading to chic, simple slides or mules for a more sophisticated and versatile footwear choice.

You can put away your three-quarter length coats for the moment, according to Michelle Barrett, personal stylist and founder of Capsule Closet Stylist. She said full-length is the look this year.

"Go for a full-length trench or tailored wool coat for that timeless capsule classic," the stylist told Insider. "Pair with jeans and a simple cotton shirt."

Over-the-top fringe details can look busy, according to Allen, and are not the look this year.

Instead, the stylist suggested clothing items and accessories with subtle or refined fringe accents for a more sophisticated appearance.

Chunky cardigans, though comfy, have started to look frumpy, according to personal stylist Sahra Brandt.

Instead, the stylist suggested trying a cropped and boxy cardigan in a super lightweight knit, such as cashmere. 

"Up the style ante and do a half tuck on the sweater and add a blazer layer," Brandt told BI.

"Guys, it's time to relax on the extra-long V-necks," Sharpe told BI. 

The stylist recommended trying a classic-fitting T-shirt instead since it can be dressed up or down without showing too much skin. 

Nude tights are a fading trend, according to Barrett. Instead, opt for more colorful tones.

"The brighter the better," the stylist told BI. "Try a bright-red, bottle-green, or purple option worn with black or a gothic-inspired floral-print dress."

T-shirts with words or phrases on them are out, according to Sharpe. 

"Leave the 'I love craft beer' shirt at home and go with a graphic tee instead," the stylist told BI. 

"If you haven't heard, Gen Z is letting us know it's not cool to wear those skinny jeans anymore," Sharpe told BI. 

According to the stylist, the new alternative for all genders is more wide-leg or bootcut pants and oversized items. 

Say goodbye to platform sneakers and hello to low-profile shoes, Sharpe told BI. 

"Lower-profile sneakers are making a huge comeback, and it's calling on all the 'it' girls like Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber who love their sneakers with dresses, jeans, and even sweats," the stylist said.

Barrett said to replace oversized shirts with tailored versions. According to the stylist, a tailored shirt fits most people much better and is less overwhelming on petite frames.

"Think options like 'old money' styles in pale blue and white vertical stripes," she told BI, referring to more tailored polos, sweaters, and button-downs. 

Chunky soles are being replaced with sleeker lines, pointed toes, and ballet flats, according to Sharpe.

"Instead of a chunky-heel shoe, go for a lower profile boot with a stiletto heel or even a biker-style boot," she told BI.

Florals will still be popular this year, according to Barrett, but not in pastels. Instead, opt for moody tones with floral prints on a dark autumnal background. 

"Team dresses with dark, chunky boots for that gothic trend," the stylist told BI.

As jean hems rise, so too will boots, according to Brandt.

"I love a bootie that hits above the ankle bone, even better if it's around mid-calf," the stylist told BI. "This has such an elongating effect on the legs."

Just like skinny jeans, skinny work trousers or dress pants are also fading, according to Brandt. 

"These days, we are loving a pleated or wide-leg trouser that can be dressed up with loafers or heels for work or dressed down with some classic Sambas," the stylist told BI.

This story was originally published on October 29, 2023, and most recently updated on January 3, 2024.