Having made it through the initial stages of back-to-school season, suddenly winter is staring us down, and our lightweight blazers simply won't cut it for workwear attire any longer. With the sudden drop in temperature, I've been newly inspired to shake up my winter workwear wardrobe in favour of hard-working items that can mix and match with each other, so I never have to fret about not having anything to wear. Having worked in the fashion industry for many years now, I'm well versed in the foundations of a great workwear outfit. So with the new season quickly approaching, I've narrowed my workwear collection down to the nine staple pieces that will freshen up my wardrobe for easy daily styling that's both professional and right on trend.
Read on to discover my edit of the perfect winter-ready capsule wardrobe below.
1. THE PERFECT BUTTON-DOWN
Style Notes: I'm convinced that every great workwear wardrobe starts with a button-down. Whilst we remain in autumn you can use it under a blazer, but when the temperature starts to drop, layer it over over a fine-knit turtleneck, or it wear underneath a thicker jumper.
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Striped button-downs are the workwear staple I can't be without.
I reach for a white button-down several times a week.
Navy blue is the chic winter shade I'm prioritising this year.
Soft silk is always a good idea.
2. A LUXURIOUS KNIT
Style Notes: A high-quality knit is perfect for easy insulation over the winter months. Crew-neck cardigans are trending, but I'll always fall back on a classic wool jumper. Keep your knitwear looking neat by clearing any loose threads or pilling with a fabric shaver.
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A navy jumper is ideal for layering over the aforementioned crisp white button-down.
I can't stop thinking about this perfect red cardi.
A beige jumper will seamlessly blend into your capsule wardrobe.
Style this chic cardi buttoned all the way up for a neat finish, or wear undone for a casual look.
3. WOOL TROUSERS
Style Notes: For their chart-topping insulating qualities and chic finish, I'm only interested in shopping trousers of the wool variety during the winter months. Able to keep you warmer than any denim or cotton style ever could, there's really only one answer when it comes to winter trousers.
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This ankle-grazing style wears well with loafers or boots.
On those extra-cold days, pop on some thermals underneath your wide-leg trousers.
Perfectly oversized.
Black trousers are a workwear hero no one should be without.
4. A SMART WINTER COAT
Style Notes: When winter sets in, a high-quality coat is simply non-negotiable. Choose a smart, double-breasted style in a chic neutral tone for a goes-with-everything outerwear solution.
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Camel coats are the enduring winter trend I'll always have a soft spot for.
Sharp shoulders and a double-breasted closure make for the perfect workwear coat.
This slouchier style will see you through the winter months in comfort and warmth.
I'll be snapping up this perfect grey coat.
5. SLEEK LEATHER LOAFERS
Style Notes: Sleek leather loafers are the footwear trend that was practically designed with the office in mind. When the weather calls for it, style with thick white socks or black tights, but on warmer days go without for a more relaxed look.
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G.H. Bass does loafers so well.
This smart style is at the top of my wish list.
Marks & Spencer is always reliable for high-quality leather items.
Workwear-ready and bang on trend.
6. A SIMPLE AND STYLISH DRESS
Style Notes: A simple dress in an elegant cut is the one-and-done workwear solution I've been looking for. Layer with a wool knit or button-down or simply style with a blazer for a work-appropriate look you can call on time and again.
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Layer with tights, boots and a blazer when the chilly weather sets in.
A boat-neck cut is the simple, refined style I'm shopping this season.
Elegant and easy. What more could you want?
Layer with a little cardigan and smart coat this winter.
7. THE PERFECT LAYERING TEE
Style Notes: There's no need to stow away your T-shirts come winter; these wardrobe heroes will help you create a versatile workwear capsule. Layer underneath thick jumpers, light cardigans, button-down shirts and smart blazers all season long.
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I've tried so many white tees, and this is my favourite.
Striped tees layer well with neutral blazers or navy cardigans.
A ribbed version will add that extra bit of insulation.
Don't sleep on long-sleeved T-shirts this winter.
8. A TRUSTY BOXY BLAZER
Style Notes: If you choose the right cut, a sleek blazer will easily layer underneath a structured coat or be roomy enough to chuck over a jumper. The workwear stalwart we've been calling upon for years, no capsule wardrobe is complete without one.
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Style with wool trousers, a fine knit or the perfect white shirt.
I've had my eye on this brown blazer for a while.
Double-breasted styles always look smart.
A good blazer can take you from the working week to the weekend with ease.
9. KITTEN-HEEL BOOTS
Style Notes: When winter really rolls around, there's nothing I'd rather reach for than a reliable pair of leather boots. Perfect whatever the weather, this versatile footwear option will see you through the coldest chill. This season, kitten-heel boots are trending. Effortlessly chic, I'll be styling them with everything I can.
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Style knee-high boots with a dress and tights this season.
In my opinion, a kitten heel is the perfect height.
These ankle boots will pair perfectly with wool trousers.
Style your winter whites with this chic ankle boot.
Next Up: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Will Last a Lifetime
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