Winter and luxury are two words that just go hand in hand in the world of fashion. After all, it is the season of over-indulgence, so why not extend the sentiment to our wardrobes too? We've already nailed our layering choices throughout autumn, and now we're looking for pieces that can cater to our consistent need for cold-weather style. The importance of finding those hero pieces that can stand up for winters to come is a responsibility that I personally think lies in the territory of investment buys.
I can attest for myself and say that my favourite items in my winter wardrobe are the classics that have seen me through year after year and which I still get unashamedly excited to dust off as soon as winter rolls around. These are the pieces that we can rely on, the ones that never fail to get us compliments and can withstand any trend cycle. But if you're struggling to think of a few items you already own that are worthy of a place on your forever list, then read on, as I've narrowed down five key pieces that are well worth the investment.
1. Wool Coat
Style Notes: I'm not shy about my love for a chic long, wool coat. This kind of coat is simply a no-brainer during a cold winter—it boasts practicality by guaranteeing warmth, yet is so effortlessly stylish and easy to wear. Although some can come with a bold price tag, I still strongly believe that it's best to have one in your wardrobe for this time of year. After all, something this classic will last you for years and years. On those wintery nights out, pair with a sleek ribbed dress and boots, then dress down with a pair of straight-leg jeans and a fine merino knit.
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In my opinion, this standout wool trench is simply perfect for any winter wardrobe—the padded shoulders and brushed wool give it such a luxe feel. Pair with your favourite leather ankle boots and whatever you fancy underneath.
Definitely an investment, but worth it for its uniquely tailored shape and full wool composition. This coat has undeniable wear-with-everything potential with its perfectly straight silhouette and concealed fastenings. It's already at the top of my dream-winter-coat pile.
A modern upgrade on the original classic camel coat, this loose-fitting wool coat is the ideal winter outerwear for when you want to layer underneath. I love the wide collar and side splits and I think it would work just as well to pull together daytime looks as it would over eveningwear.
A classically chic black wool coat could well be considered essential when the chilly weather starts to pick up. Able to effortlessly hold an outfit together, you'll reach for it time and again. I love the minimal double-breasted fastening on this one, and I'd pair it with a chunky roll-neck knit and loose-fitting trousers. Yes, it's expensive, but it's always good to invest in the highest quality you can afford when you know you'll get a lot of wear out of a piece.
2. Leather Jacket
Style Notes: The iconic leather jacket is an item that can carry you through all seasons. Easy to layer, this classic piece adds an element of cool to any winter outfit. It's a classic for a reason, and in my opinion, is superior to every other jacket trend. I love Anouk Yve's bomber style (pictured above), which is effortlessly balanced with slim-fit jeans and loafers. There are countless ways to incorporate a leather jacket, whether that be a biker, blazer or trench. Style with statement accessories like a bright beanie or beret.
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This padded beauty is one that will for sure keep out the cold. I love the subtle padding on the collar and the cinched cuffs, whilst the lack of visible pockets adds to the sleek exterior. Wear with some dark-wash jeans and chunky loafers.
This mid-length, leather-panelled shearling jacket is all about the details. With two tones, big pockets and buckled leather tabs along the cuffs, it's a definite head-turner and one to reach for year after year. Its loose shape allows plenty of room to layer—style with a roll-neck cashmere jumper or a fitted, ribbed, long-sleeved T-shirt.
Another padded puffer jacket, but this one comes hooded and with a drawstring for ultimate practicality. Wear with wide-leg jeans and dainty boots to balance out the structured shape of the coat.
A favourite amongst fashion people and Who What Wear UK editors for good reason. This timeless jacket's sleek design and soft leather feel is at the top of my winter wish list.
3. Sleek, Chunky Scarf
Style Notes: Winter accessories are hands down my favourite part of chilly-season fashion. You're given the chance to add a whole new dimension to outfits that you've had on rotation for a good few days or weeks, not to mention the extra layers of warmth that a scarf, hat and gloves bring. In particular, the statement chunky scarf knows exactly how to put in the work for your wintery outfit. Whether it's a pop of colour, a contrast in texture or just a switch up in silhouette, a good scarf can do it all.
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This giant Burberry scarf features the brand's iconic checkered print in a contrasting pink, orange and brown colourway. It's perfect for layering on top of a brown trench for an elegant look, or for wrapping up with a loose denim jacket.
A mohair scarf is the ultimate elevated winter accessory. Investing in a high-quality scarf that is less likely to shed or become matted is a good choice, especially if you don't want to keep re-purchasing a new one each winter. I love the subtle leather patch on this one from Loewe—it would be wonderful with a leather blazer. It also comes in grey and black.
What better way to incorporate a bit of pattern into your winter outfits than with a luxe merino-blend scarf? This one by Isabel Marant would work well with a loose cashmere jumper and some camel cargos—a perfect off-duty look.
With a classic houndstooth pattern and maxi in size, this Acne scarf is bound to add dimension to your winter looks. The monochrome element gives a lot more potential to match with existing items in your wardrobe, and I can see it working well with a quilted jacket and maxi denim pencil skirt.
4. Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: When the cold creeps in, classic knee-high boots make their way to the front of the shoe rack. They mean business and are an easy way to elevate your winter ensembles. With so many variations to choose from and so much styling potential, there's truly a boot for everyone. This is an investment buy you won't regret.
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I love the wide, rounded block heel on these boots—a welcome contrast to the rest of the classically sleek design. Wear with fitted jeans or an A-line denim skirt.
These suede boots are incredibly elegant in every way, and they'd be amazing with a sequinned minidress. This isn't to say they can't be dressed down though—try them under loose, wide-leg trousers.
These biker-inspired knee-high boots are everywhere at the moment, and for good reason. The silver hardware is great for adding a metallic touch to your footwear and matches well when paired with other silver accessories in your outfit, such as a statement necklace.
These Toteme riding-style boots are the chicest way to wear flats this winter. I love the square toe, which modernises the traditional design. They'd pair so well with low-rise, slim fit denim and a loose, everyday T-shirt.
5. Bold Knit
Style Notes: A statement knit is that one item you look forward to styling every winter. It's your favourite of the bunch—the one that washes well, maintains its vibrancy and above all, keeps you cosy. You needn't worry about what the rest of your outfit is doing when you have this to bring it all together. A stellar knit should be versatile enough to wear throughout party season as well as on errand-running days, and I love Laura Klein's vibrant argyle jumper (pictured above) for this reason. Paired with straight-leg jeans, it's a look to rotate all winter long.
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It's hard to go wrong with a bright red knit this winter, and I've always been a huge fan of this classic Bella Freud graphic. This sweater is perfect to wear and re-wear on office days or even for winter shopping. Wear with puddle jeans or an asymmetrical maxi skirt.
Pink is still very much in for the season, and a large, off-the-shoulder knit is a perfect way to embrace the chill whilst making a statement. This mohair-blend jumper is easy to style up with some gold accessories and a silk midi skirt.
I love the detail of the classic chunky stripes and two-tone roll neck on this cult Toteme knit. Monochrome stripes are something we see replicated year after year, so it only makes sense to invest in a timeless piece that will last this winter and into the next. On those extra-cold days, wear with a leather mid-length jacket.
This statement jumper again showcases cherry red hues, this time alongside a vibrant pattern. The interesting shoulder cutout adds a unique element and one that is sure to stand out in your wardrobe. This would work well dressed up with some black trousers and black, pointed-toe boots—understated pairings so as not to distract from the joyful print.
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