9 Pieces Later, and You've Got the Perfect Cold-Weather Capsule Wardrobe

"Hate" is a strong word, which is why I never use it lightly. In fact, there are only two instances in which I can say it with conviction. One is regarding bananas. (I'll never understand how anyone can eat them.) The other? Being cold. I hate being cold. However, one thing I do like is dressing for the cold.

Curating an outfit for sub-zero conditions is often regarded as one of the biggest fashion dilemmas going. But with a bit of advice from yours truly, you can take on the elements with all the knack of a pro snowboarder but with all the sartorial prowess of a pro street styler.

Be it a cable-knit, a roll-neck or one of Zara's bestsellers, jumpers are a winter-style given. Keep scrolling to see the unexpected but also the best cold-weather clothing I swear by. How do I know? Because I live in Scotland, I pull these items out of hibernation every year as soon as the centigrade drops. No need to thank me, but should you feel so inclined, please don't do so with banana bread. 

THE BEST COLD-WEATHER CLOTHING

1. THE PADDED COAT

Style Notes: As far as I'm concerned, the risk of winding up looking like the Michelin Man is worth taking in the pursuit of warmth in winter. But with the fashion seal of approval, you can now pop on a padded coat with new-found pride.

2. THE BOILERSUIT

Style Notes: An all-in-one is extremely effective at keeping in the heat, but more importantly, it's great at keeping the chill out. What's even better is that the current trick du jour is to layer one with a roll-neck. Even toastier.

3. THE LEATHER TROUSERS

Style Notes: We all remember the episode of Friends where Ross gets too hot in his leather pants, so he takes them off, only to find that they won't pull back on. Amongst the hilarity, there's an element of truth: Leather keeps you warm. I suggest investing in pair of leather trousers stat. 

4. THE KNITTED VEST

Style Notes: We all have those coats that are too tailored to wear chunky knitwear under. The solution? A knitted vest. And this year, there are plenty of incredibly chic iterations to be had. 

5. THE JUMPER DRESS

Style Notes: As I said, jumpers are a cold-weather given, but jumper dresses? Previously, they were less commonplace, but in recent years, they're all the sartorial rage. Choose a midi style for maximum warmth.

6. THE FLANNEL OVERSHIRT

Style Notes: Thick flannel shirting is one of the top trends of the season and, handily, is incredibly toasty, too. We love how influencer Monikh Dale wears hers open over a simple tee and knitted joggers for a comfy at-home ensemble. 

7. THE EPIC OVERSIZED SCARF

Style Notes: Okay, so not quite Lenny Kravitz–scarf proportions, but these knitted beauties are still pretty supersized. Wear one slung over your shoulder or belted in place over your coat, or simply lie on the ground and roll yourself into a very chic cocoon.

8. THE KNEE BOOT

Style Notes: It's not often that the latest It shoes are also ones you could actually wear in subzero temperatures so I'm elated that knee boots (usually found modelled in leather) are on winter's style index. 

9. THE LONG-SLEEVE BODYSUIT

Style Notes: Though I always wear them in the summer with jeans, it's only recently that I've realised just how toasty bodysuits can be in the autumn months. It's the same idea as the boilersuit. I find my bodysuits help me preserve my body heat, keeping me toastier in lighter knits. Think of the below pieces as stylish alternatives to thermals. 

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. 

Next Up: 6 Simple Winter Outfits That Are the Epitome of Timeless