Dressing for winter and pulling it off in a stylish way can sometimes be a tall order. This editor learned the hard way. While I’ve lived on the west coast for most of my life, I spent two years in NYC before moving back to L.A. last spring. Dressing for the long winter in New York was an adjustment, to put it mildly. While I was used to bundling up in Arizona or California, a leather jacket and a few light layers were all I ever really needed to get by. On the east coast, it’s another story though.
As a minimalist I never wanted to buy too many pieces but after a little trial and error, I discovered a winter capsule wardrobe that allowed me to stay both warm and stylish with a few key essentials. First, the turtleneck top became the ultimate layering pieces. Worn with jeans or under a dress, it lends a sophisticated spin to any look. Next, a heavier sweater was colder days. While I didn’t want to give up dresses, I learned to love longer hemlines. Another winter must? Ankle boots—essential for pairing with long dresses and navigating snowy footpaths. And finally, the faux fur coats are the ultimate topper to stay both banishing the cold and looking stylish.
Go on to shop pieces from the winter capsule wardrobe.
Style Notes: You have to get yourself a black roll neck. Preferably it needs to be one you can layer under shirts and chunkier pieces of knitwear. It will look great by itself but it will be great for keeping you warm too. Buy two of the same if you have to. Yes, that’s how much I think you need this piece. Uniqlo do some of the best layering pieces around. Style Notes: The two things you need shoes to do in the winter: Keep your feet warm and not let you slip over. If you can’t go without a heel, however, then opt for a low heel boot in a neutral colour (that includes leopard print by the way). We’re all about the heel on these ankle boots. Style Notes: While I love Camille Charrière’s oversized puffer coat, if you buy a small, fitted quilted jacket, you can wear it under bigger wool coats when it starts to get seriously cold. This is chic enough to wear by itself. Style Notes: Consider this your biggest purchase. A winter coat that you love will last you close to six months, which is incredible for cost-per-wear when you think about it. Pastel coats are so pretty and chic. Style Notes: While you might want to stick with neutrals for all your other pieces, when it comes to chunky knits you can afford to go for a bold hue. Try red, blue, or purple to give your outfit a bit of life. Pro tip: If you get too warm, take it off and layer over your coat like a scarf. It’s very Man Repeller. This will work perfectly with your blue coat. Style Notes: Another purchase you won’t ever regret is investing in a pair of classic trousers. Try black or dark blue with a slight crop so they will look great with your boots and they won’t ever soak up any water on the pavement. A wardrobe staple. Style Notes: You might not feel like wearing jewellery in the cold, but you do need to wear a scarf when the temperature really drops. Make it one people stare at. If you don’t love this colourway, see Charlotte Simone’s collection for plenty of other options.
