The key pieces you need for a stylish winter wardrobe
My seven must-have pieces for keeping warm and stylish in winter
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When the season changes from chilly autumn to freezing winter, it’s time to bring out the big guns from your wardrobe. When the mercury has dipped or you’re saving energy by turning the heating down a degree or two, you need the comfort of your warmest clothes.
If you want to create a capsule collection of key winter pieces without sacrificing style, these are the seven items I’d recommend you have on your checklist.
1. STATEMENT LEATHER PIECE
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Leather Shirt from Massimo Dutti
Always right for the winter months, leather (real or faux) never goes out of fashion and ‘bikercore’ is a big trend again this season.
Make a fashion statement by wearing it all together all in one outfit, or choose just one statement piece like a black or burgundy leather shirt worn with jeans and an overcoat, or a leather skirt with a cosy jumper and chunky boots (see below) to get an on-trend leather look.
Never Fully Dressed Vegan Leather Skirt →
2. CHUNKY BOOTS
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Chunky Sole Boots from Reiss
I’m talking about boots for stomping here. Track or cleated soles balance out a thick knit jumper and relaxed jeans, or toughen up the look of a feminine dress or midi skirt. Pairing unexpected styles together, known as ‘high-low dressing’ is a modern approach to creating less formal outfits for day to day wear.
If you’re going to mid-calf or knee-high, make sure they’re a snug fit on the legs with no looseness or gaps so you get a neat silhouette. Comfortable and practical, they’ll last you a few winters.
Clarks Light Tan Lace up Boots →
3. OVERCOAT
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Double-Breasted Coat from & Other Stories
A wool or wool-look coat feels like a big hug and if it’s a classic style, you’ll be wearing it for years to come. Smarter than a puffer or a parka, this is a coat that looks more tailored and will dress up jeans and boots, or work just as easily over a dress and heels.
Look for a slightly oversized or relaxed shape for a modern take, or try a narrower shape or a belted style for a slim silhouette. Choose a neutral colour like black, navy or camel for maximum versatility, or make more of a statement with a bright colour that lifts your mood and is guaranteed to attract compliments.
4. LAYERING TOPS
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Long-Sleeved Merino Top from Arket
Invest in a few lightweight, breathable tops that can be worn under jumpers, dresses, shirts or other layers that give you extra warmth without bulk. In fine jersey knit, they would probably feel too clingy to wear on their own, but are soft next to the skin and really cosy to wear if you feel stifled by chunky knits. You can wear one under a lighter weight jumper that otherwise, would be too cold in winter.
I’d recommend the bamboo layering tops by Bam Clothing, the Heattech thermal tops by Uniqlo and the long sleeve Silky tops by Kettlewell.
5. GILET
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Ultra Light Down Compact Vest from Uniqlo
A thin gilet, either fleece or lightly padded, is a great layer that you can layer under a coat for extra warmth, or wear indoors when you’re feeling chilly. The most significant difference between the two garments is in the weight of the jacket. Not to be confused with a body warmer, a gilet is more lightweight in design and often functions as a mid-layer, body warmers are usually bulkier like a sleeveless puffer jacket, and is more of an outer layer.
A gilet with minimal, clean styling will be really useful for layering. Go for one without a collar, or a small stand up collar, and without a hood.
6. HEELED BOOTS
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Leather Block-Heel Western Boots from Dune London
When you need smarter footwear, sleek heeled boots are the answer. Whether you prefer ankle or knee high, a block heeled style compliments thicker, more substantial winter clothing and feels sturdier than narrow heels for walking about in bad weather. They are perfect for the office but will look just as good with casual weekend wear.
Wide leg or flared trousers and jeans need a bit of extra lift to avoid legs looking short, so block heels or a wedge are a good smart casual option. When worn with very long trousers or jeans, pointed or almond toes (a softer, more oval shape), are more flattering than round or square toes as they extend the leg line and make them appear longer.
7. COLOURED COSY SCARF
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Brushed Emerald Green Heavyweight Scarf from Oliver Bonas
Even if you’re a bit of a colour-phobe and feel nervous about wearing bright hues, a scarf in a statement colour that looks good on you can lift your mood as well as your outfit and light up your face. Think of a colour that you love, but might not want to commit to it in the form of a coat or jumper, and look for it in scarf form.
Add it to a dark or neutral outfit or wear it with toning shades for a gorgeous flash of colour. If you’re not used to accessorising your outfits, this is an easy and really effective winter wardrobe addition.
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Enjoy putting together your cosy and functional key pieces that will help to make getting dressed so much easier. Create a perfect blend of neutrals, pops of colour and warm textures to see you through the next few months and beat the cold weather blues!
If you want to find out how I can help to put together a capsule winter wardrobe, why not get in touch to find out more?