I'm Revamping My Closet With These 5 Elevated Basics for a Chic Winter Wardrobe

It's usually around the mid-season mark that I like to take stock of my current wardrobe and see what pieces might be missing or in major need of a revamp. This winter, I am focused on elevated basics since they have the ability to bring just about any outfit to the next level. At the end of the day, I am all about transforming my closet into a chicer version of itself, especially if I can do it in a simple, straightforward way.
With a little bit of contemplating and cold-weather outfits top of mind, I narrowed down five key basics that I would like to shop at the moment, ranging from transformative coats to sleek boots, cool jeans, and more. Ahead, I break down each elevated basic with some visual winter outfit inspiration on how to wear each piece, plus a comprehensive roundup of finds that fit the bill perfectly.
Cuffed Denim
Brushed Sweaters
Boatneck Tops
Black Kitten-Heel Boots
Long Coats

Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.
-
The Numbers Don't Lie: This Is the Only Denim Trend More Popular Than Baggy Jeans Right Now
According to data.
-
I'm an NYC Shopping Editor—I Can't Stop Thinking About These 31 Rich-Looking Fall Finds From Nordstrom, Zara, and H&M
Did I mention they're under $250?
-
I'm 5'0"—These Are the Only Jeans That Get My Petite Approval
The hunt is over.
-
I Live in Murray Hill—Here Are the 8 Places I Like to Shop for a Fashionable Fall Closet
Stylish sweaters and suedes ahead.
-
Sambas Aren't "Out," But If You Want to Wear Them in 2025, You Should Style Them Like This
Fresh and elegant.
-
What to Buy for Fall If You Don't Want to Regret It Next Year (or the Year After)
Investments only.
-
The Top 10 Things to Buy This September If You Want Cooler Outfits and More Compliments
Fall is in full swing.
-
These 32 Chic Zara Fall 2025 Shoe Finds Are the Key to Looking Like a Fashion Person—Good Luck Picking Just One Pair
Prepare for endless compliments.