It’s time to start thinking about the softest knits, the best chunky boots, glam dresses and, to top everything off, the cosiest coats for wrapping yourself up in. If you plan well now, you’ll be ready to take on the coldest of days with an arsenal of easy-to-wear winter outfits up your sleeve.
Whether you’re crazy for colour blocking, or black and white monochrome is more your minimalist vibe, think about your winter outfits with a tonal mindset.
You can still mix in pops of colour (I love berry, jewel and khaki tones for winter) with neutrals, but this way you’ll be able to make more outfit combinations out of fewer core pieces.
After all, it’s all about cost-per-wear, and by collating a winter wardrobe of core items, you’ll be able to wear them in years to come.
Think of it like your winter capsule wardrobe. As these formulas show, a few key items can be rotated for different winter outfits:
Why a basic rollneck will be your wardrobe hero
Pick one that sits snuggly against the skin (Zara bring out a classic selection every year in lots of different colours) so you can wear it on its own tucked into jeans and a skirt for a polished look, or you can layer it under a dress or under a jumpsuit.
When it gets really cold I even put one underneath a chunky knit for an extra layer of warmth.
How to invest in a luxe winter knit
Whether you’re shopping in M&S or & Other Stories, knitwear is an investment. So for effortless styling (and with that winter capsule wardrobe in mind) stick to neutral shades like navy, khaki, beige, or black if you’ll be wearing them on rotation throughout winter like me.
These 3 boot styles will see you through winter
Boots are also an essential for protecting you from the elements – but of course, you can still do it chicly. If you’ve not already found your perfect pair for the season take a look at the best boots to buy now.
For me, the three best pairs to invest in that’ll see you through every wintry outfit scenario are:
- A chunky Chelsea boot (or something you can slip on with minimal effort) to wear with skinny jeans, mom jeans and any straighter fits.
- A platform ankle boot that you can wear under wide leg jeans and flares. Big news for this season, they’ll look just as good with autumn dresses and will instantly elevate an outfit.
- A long boot that’ll work in the day as well as going out in the evening. Wear with jeans tucked in or with dresses and tights.
The secret to finding the perfect winter coat
If choosing a winter coat out of the zillions out there seems completely overwhelming, then keep your winter capsule wardrobe in mind and find one (or a couple) that works with as many outfit formulas as possible.
To help narrow it down think about a smart coat first. Long wool wrap around coats are great for going out, work days, and dressing up…
For more casual looks think puffer coats and teddy bear coats which can be thrown on over loungewear on a weekend.
Add an oversized wool blazer into the mix for days where you might not need as much warmth (or buy one roomy enough for wearing a snuggly knit underneath!)
Why the winter dresses are all about the fabric
It’s the weight and feel of a fabric that instantly makes it perfect for winter and separates it from other dresses you wear all-year round.
Whether you’d like one for day, night, or something that works for both, opt for velvets, corduroys and cosy knitted dresses.
How to nail the perfect winter trousers
Your go-to trousers for winter will have just the right thickness to keep you warm while looking put-together at the same time. Yet again, it’s all about fabrics.
Corduroy jeans are my cosy favourite, but this year I’ve got my eye on some wide-leg tailored trousers in a luxe-looking wool.
9 of this season’s best winter outfits
Wrap around coat + rollneck + jeans + boots
Quite simply, a timeless winter outfit that’s so easy to achieve with your favourite pair of straight leg jeans, a soft wrap around coat and a neutral knit.
Teddy bear coat + knit + trousers + boots
From weekdays WFH to weekend strolls and cosy Sunday lunches at the pub, this cuddly outfit will keep you warm on the coldest casual days.
Oversized blazer + knit + trousers
A stylish option for heading out in the cold – whether your work dress code is laidback, or you’re off out for a wintry brunch with friends. Dress up with heeled boots or keep the look more low-key with trainers.
Leather trench + rollneck + wide leg trousers + boots
Leather was especially popular across the autumn/winter catwalks. So leather separates, such as a trench coat, a pair of leather trousers, or a skirt are the perfect way to dip into the trend (without having to wear it head-to-toe).
Long wool coat + dress + knee high boots
A smart, but snug, outfit for days out and days in the office. For ultimate chicness pair a floaty midi with a coat that has a hem no shorter than your knees. You can also add a rollneck underneath your dress for added warmth and a bit of 70s flair.
Rollneck + skirt + ankle boots
Another simple pairing for a trusty rollneck is a wintry skirt. A simple switch from trousers, and you’ve got a whole new outfit idea for mixing it up mid week.
Mini dress + over knee boots
Days out, dinner, drinks, are all asking for some dressing up, and a long sleeve mini dress is your answer. For extra winter warmth, turn to dresses in velvets and corduroys.
Winter suit + shirt + platforms
Veering slightly away from the basic formula to a treat purchase (but one I don’t think you could ever regret) – a sensational velvet or corduroy winter suit.
Team with a rollneck or silk shirt and there’s no way you won’t feel fabulous.
Once you’ve invested, you’ll be able to also wear the blazer or trousers separately. For a classic look, choose khaki or navy.
If you’re looking for a bolder statement, amp up the saturation and look to reds, pink, blue or green.
Winter jumpsuit (+ rollneck)
I love a winter jumpsuit, especially in soft corduroy or velvet.
A few years ago I bought a Topshop one in navy corduroy and it always gets lots of compliments. Made all the better by the fact I can layer a rollneck underneath for extra warmth on really cold days.
This year I’m on the look out for a velvet one I can wear to the office and dress up with comfy heels for drinks out after.
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